Health Insurance Options by State
Compare ACA and STM Plans That Fit Your Needs
Health Insurance For College Students State Directory
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- Alabama
Alabama Student Health Insurance - Alaska
Alaska Student Health Insurance - Arizona
Arizona Student Health Insurance - Arkansas
Arkansas Student Health Insurance
C
- California
California Student Health Insurance - Colorado
Colorado Student Health Insurance - Connecticut
Connecticut Student Health Insurance
D
- Delaware
Delaware Student Health Insurance - District of Columbia
District of Columbia Student Health Insurance
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G
H
N
- Nevada
Nevada Student Health Insurance - New Hampshire
New Hampshire Student Health Insurance - New Jersey
New Jersey Student Health Insurance - New Mexico
New Mexico Student Health Insurance - New York
New York Student Health Insurance - North Carolina
North Carolina Student Health Insurance - North Dakota
North Dakota Student Health Insurance
I
- Idaho
Idaho Student Health Insurance - Illinois
Illinois Student Health Insurance - Indiana
Indiana Student Health Insurance - Iowa
Iowa Student Health Insurance
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L
- Louisiana
Louisiana Student Health Insurance
M
- Maine
Maine Student Health Insurance - Maryland
Maryland Student Health Insurance - Massachusetts
Massachusetts Student Health Insurance - Michigan
Michigan Student Health Insurance - Minnesota
Minnesota Student Health Insurance - Mississippi
Mississippi Student Health Insurance - Missouri
Missouri Student Health Insurance - Montana
Montana Student Health Insurance
O
- Ohio
Ohio Student Health Insurance - Oklahoma
Oklahoma Student Health Insurance - Oregon
Oregon Student Health Insurance
P
- Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Student Health Insurance
R
- Rhode Island
Rhode Island Student Health Insurance
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- South Carolina
South Carolina Student Health Insurance - South Dakota
South Dakota Student Health Insurance
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U
V
W
- Washington
Washington Student Health Insurance - West Virginia
West Virginia Student Health Insurance - Wisconsin
Wisconsin Student Health Insurance - Wyoming
Wyoming Student Health Insurance
College Student Healthcare Resources
Navigating health insurance as a college student can be overwhelming, but understanding your options will help you find the best coverage for your needs.
Important Considerations
- Coverage Through Your Parents’ Plan: If you’re under 26, you can remain on your parent’s health plan. However, make sure their plan covers providers in your college’s area.
- ACA Marketplace Plan subsidies, or financial aid, is expanded through 2025. Use our ACA Subsidy Calculator to answer a few easy questions to determine your subsidy eligibility in seconds.*
- Applying for Medicaid: If your parents don’t claim you as a dependent, you may qualify for Medicaid based on your income. Eligibility requirements vary by state.
- Short-Term Health Plans: These are a good option if you need temporary coverage, but be aware they don’t cover essential health benefits and may not include coverage for preexisting conditions. Check availability in your state as not all states offer these plans.
- Research Your School’s SHIP: Review the benefits and costs of your college’s SHIP carefully. Ensure it provides adequate coverage, including access to in-network providers, prescription drugs, and mental health services.
Here’s a breakdown of the main types of plans available to you:
1. Affordable Care Act (ACA or Obamacare) Marketplace Plans
These plans, available through the Health Insurance Marketplace, may offer subsidies to lower your premiums based on your income. If you’re under 26, you might also be able to stay on your parents’ Obamacare plan during the annual Open Enrollment Period or apply independently if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.
2. Medicaid
Medicaid provides health coverage for low-income individuals, including children, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. Eligibility varies by state, so check your state’s requirements.
3. Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
CHIP covers children whose family income is too high for Medicaid but too low to afford private insurance. This plan is available for children up to age 18.
4. Catastrophic Health Insurance Plans
These plans are designed for individuals under 30 with lower premiums and high deductibles. They cover essential health benefits and some preventive services. Verify with your college whether a catastrophic plan meets their insurance requirements.
5. Short-Term Health Insurance
Short-term plans provide temporary coverage for up to 3 months, with a possible 1-month extension. These plans generally offer limited benefits and don’t cover preexisting conditions. They’re useful if you’re between jobs or waiting for other coverage to begin.
6. Student Health Insurance Plans (SHIP)
Many colleges and universities offer SHIPs, which might be included in your tuition or student fees. These plans can be cost-effective but review the costs carefully. Check the premiums, deductibles, copays, and coinsurance to ensure it meets your needs.
7. Travel Health Insurance
If you’re studying abroad, travel health insurance can provide coverage while you’re outside the U.S., either fully or as supplemental coverage to your existing plan.
Available Resources:
- ACA Subsidy Calculator: Determine if you qualify for premium subsidies.
- Healthcare.gov: Learn about ACA plans and student-specific coverage.
- Student Health Insurance/Benefits Plans Coalition: Find recommendations for SHIPs.