No universal healthcare in the USA. Most universities mandate Student Health Insurance Plans (SHIP) for F-1/J-1 visa students.
Last updated: March 2026
Best for: All international students — default university-mandated plan
Comprehensive coverage designed for students. Accepted by all universities. Covers on-campus health center + hospitals.
Learn moreBest for: Students seeking waiver from expensive SHIP with minimum coverage
Lower cost but may not meet all university waiver requirements. Check policy details carefully.
Learn moreBest for: Students wanting comprehensive coverage comparable to SHIP at lower cost
Meets most university waiver requirements and J-1 federal minimums.
Learn more| Item | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| University SHIP (Annual) | $1,500–$3,500/year | Varies by university. Ivy League and private universities typically charge $2,500–3,500. Public universities $1,500–2,500. |
| Private Insurance (Basic) | $500–$1,000/year | Minimum coverage for F-1 students. May not qualify for SHIP waiver. |
| Private Insurance (Comprehensive) | $1,000–$1,500/year | Comparable to SHIP. Often accepted for waiver. |
| Out-of-Pocket Costs (Deductibles/Co-Pays) | $500–$2,000/year | Typical deductible + co-insurance. SHIP plans often have lower out-of-pocket costs. |
University SHIP (Annual)
$1,500–$3,500/year
Varies by university. Ivy League and private universities typically charge $2,500–3,500. Public universities $1,500–2,500.
Private Insurance (Basic)
$500–$1,000/year
Minimum coverage for F-1 students. May not qualify for SHIP waiver.
Private Insurance (Comprehensive)
$1,000–$1,500/year
Comparable to SHIP. Often accepted for waiver.
Out-of-Pocket Costs (Deductibles/Co-Pays)
$500–$2,000/year
Typical deductible + co-insurance. SHIP plans often have lower out-of-pocket costs.
Review your university's SHIP plan details, cost, and waiver policy. Most universities auto-enroll international students in SHIP.
Compare SHIP cost with private insurance. If you find cheaper comparable coverage, prepare waiver application.
If keeping SHIP, do nothing (auto-enrolled). If waiving, submit waiver form + proof of comparable insurance before deadline (usually 2–4 weeks into semester).
SHIP: Card issued by university health center. Private: Card from insurance provider. Always carry your card.
Most universities offer free/low-cost on-campus health centers. Use these for routine care to save money.
The United States has no universal healthcare system. As an international student, health insurance is mandatory — either through your university’s Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) or a private plan that meets your visa and university requirements.
Most US universities automatically enroll international students in their SHIP plan. These comprehensive plans cost $1,500–$3,500/year and cover:
SHIP plans are designed for students and typically include access to the on-campus health center for free or low-cost routine care.
If you’re on a J-1 visa (exchange visitor), you must meet federal insurance minimums:
Most SHIP plans meet these requirements. If using private insurance, verify it complies with J-1 standards.
Many universities allow you to waive SHIP if you have comparable private insurance. To qualify for a waiver:
Waiver rules vary by university. Look up your school in our US University Waiver Finder to see the exact SHIP cost, waiver deadline and required coverage limits for 20 top US schools including Harvard, MIT, Stanford, UCLA and NYU.
With over 1 million international students, the USA is the world’s top study destination, offering Ivy League universities, cutting-edge research, and diverse campus life. Healthcare is expensive, but proper insurance ensures you’re protected.
If you’re looking to waive a costly university SHIP plan or need an F-1/J-1-compliant private alternative, we’ve reviewed the leading student health plans for the USA. See all USA student health insurance plans →
Top picks:
Related guides: Student health insurance USA — F-1 visa guide · Cheapest F-1 visa health insurance plans 2026 · How to waive university health insurance in the USA · OPT/CPT health insurance gap for F-1 students
Compare your university's SHIP plan with private insurance options to find the best coverage at the best price.
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