North Carolina Student Health Insurance Options

If you’re heading off to a college or university in the Tar Heel State, have you made plans for health insurance? Maybe you’re wondering why you need insurance if you’re young and healthy. But even as a student, it’s important to understand your choices for health insurance in North Carolina. Learn more about available options and how to enroll.

What to Consider When Searching for Student Health Coverage in North Carolina

Here are the key factors for students in North Carolina:

• Are you a resident? In-state students may find it easier to remain on their parents’ plan.
• Dependent status? If claimed as a dependent, you can stay on your parents’ plan until age 26. If you’re turning 26 soon, you may want to find your own health insurance coverage.
• Stay on parents’ plan or get your own? Staying may save money, but you only qualify for ACA subsidies if you buy your own.
• Cost vs. coverage tradeoff? Choose a plan that fits your expected healthcare needs—more benefits usually mean higher premiums.
• Skip insurance? Risky—lack of coverage could result in overwhelming medical bills.

How Do You Get Covered Under Your Parents’ Plan?

If you’re under 26, you can stay on your parents’ plan—whether you’re studying in-state or out-of-state.

• Be sure to check if local doctors or hospitals are in-network to avoid high out-of-pocket costs.
• Enrollment rules:
  • ACA Marketplace plans: Dependents can be added during Open Enrollment or a Special Enrollment Period.
  • Employer-sponsored plans: Similar rules apply through the employer’s designated periods.

How Do You Get Covered Through Your School in North Carolina?

Many schools require students to have health insurance and may offer plans that meet minimum coverage standards.

Examples:

• UNC System Schools: Students are automatically enrolled in the UNC System Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP), administered by Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina, unless they provide proof of comparable coverage. Students must waive SHIP every semester if opting out.
• Duke University and Wake Forest University: Private schools in North Carolina also require coverage and offer SHIP through BCBSNC with waiver options.

ACA Health Plans in North Carolina

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) allows individuals and families to buy health insurance through the federal Marketplace. ACA plans offer essential health benefits, free preventive care, and protection for preexisting conditions.

Subsidies may be available to reduce premium costs. You can check your eligibility using our ACA Subsidy Calculator.

ACA metal tiers:

• Bronze: Low premiums, high out-of-pocket
• Silver: Balanced, eligible for cost-sharing reductions
• Gold: High premiums, low out-of-pocket
• Platinum: Highest premiums, lowest out-of-pocket (limited availability)

Medicaid or CHIP in North Carolina

Medicaid provides free or low-cost coverage for low-income individuals and families. CHIP (NC Health Choice) covers children up to age 19 in families that earn too much for Medicaid.

Apply via:

• NC Medicaid Website
• Local Department of Social Services

Other Options for Coverage in North Carolina

1. Short-Term Health Insurance

Short-term health insurance offers temporary coverage with fast enrollment and broad networks. Ideal for gaps between school terms or transitioning off a parent’s plan.

2. Supplemental Health Plans

Supplemental insurance covers gaps left by primary plans. Options include accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity policies.

3. Dental and Vision Insurance Plans

Affordable bundles help cover cleanings, glasses, exams, and braces. Great for budget-conscious students.

4. Health Care Sharing Ministry Programs

Faith-based programs offer a low-cost alternative to insurance. Not regulated like traditional plans.

5. Fixed Benefit Medical Insurance

Fixed benefit plans pay set amounts per medical service. Helpful for budget control and deductible-free coverage.

Understanding Health Insurance Costs

Know the key terms:

• Premium: Monthly cost of your plan
• Deductible: Amount you pay before insurance kicks in
• Copayment: Flat fee for services
• Coinsurance: Your share after deductible
• Out-of-Pocket Maximum: Annual cap on what you pay
• In-Network vs. Out-of-Network: In-network saves money

Need help understanding insurance lingo? Check out our full health insurance glossary.

Next Steps

Compare all your options before the semester begins. Look at coverage, costs, and provider networks. Choose a plan that works for your health and your wallet.