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Health insurance requirements have changed, beginning with the Fall 2024 semester. Please read carefully to understand your requirements and options.
Please consult the table below to learn more about health insurance requirements; enrollment and waiver forms; the cost of premiums; and options for covering your dependents.
All international students and scholars are required to have health insurance coverage. Enrollment in the student plan is automatic when the credit hour threshold is met.
| International Students | International Scholars |
|---|---|
| Students are registered for classes (undergraduate or graduate), arrive at UB at the beginning of a semester, and leave at the end of a semester. This includes J-1 student interns. | Scholars are not registered for classes (they may be doing research or specialized training), and arrive and leave UB at any time, depending on their program. |
Students who study abroad, or who go abroad related to their studies at UB, must have health insurance coverage through the University.
All intercollegiate student athletes are required to have health insurance. Effective for Fall 2024, this mandate will be administered by the UB Department of Athletics. More details will be announced as they become available.
Health-related academic programs may require students to have health insurance. Please check with your academic program about specific health insurance requirements.
Effective Fall 2024, UB will discontinue the domestic health insurance plan offered by the university to our students. Additionally, we will no longer mandate health insurance for domestic students attending the University at Buffalo.
The waiver process for international students will open on Wednesday, December 11, 2024.
| Plan/Type | Rate (Premium) & Coverage Dates for Fall 2024 | Deadline | Coverage Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic Students | Find an Insurance Plan | ||
| International Students | $1,478.01 01/15/25-08/14/25 | 2/28/2025 | |
| International Scholars | Deadlines depend on when you arrive in the U.S. J-1 international scholars have 30 days from arrival into the U.S. to enroll/waive the insurance | ||
| * OPT (Optional Practical Training) (coverage is optional) | At least 2 weeks before current policy expires | ||
| Students Going Abroad | At least 2 weeks before going abroad |
Deadlines listed apply to the health insurance waiver ONLY. If insurance premiums remain on your student account past the tuition due date, late fees will apply.
Health insurance coverage may be available for other groups. Please follow these links to learn more.
For help understanding and navigating the health insurance process.
Student Health Insurance Office
Student Life
1 Capen
University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY 14260-2100
Phone: (716) 645-3036