Pennsylvania Student Health Insurance Options

If you’re heading off to a college or university in the Keystone 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 Pennsylvania. Learn more about available options and how to enroll.

What to Consider When Searching for Student Health Coverage in Pennsylvania

Here are the key factors for students in Pennsylvania:

• 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 plan.
• 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, and most Pennsylvania schools require insurance for enrollment.

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.

Network check: Make sure your campus area has in-network providers to avoid high out-of-pocket costs.

Enrollment rules:

• ACA Marketplace plans: You can be added during Open Enrollment or a Special Enrollment Period.
• Employer-sponsored plans: Follow the employer’s specific enrollment windows.

How Do You Get Covered Through Your School in Pennsylvania?

Most Pennsylvania colleges and universities require students to have health insurance and offer plans that meet minimum coverage standards.

Examples include:

• Penn State University: Offers a Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) for full-time students, with comprehensive benefits and access to national provider networks.
• Temple University: Requires proof of insurance for most students and provides an institutional plan for those without adequate coverage.
• University of Pittsburgh: Mandates health insurance for undergraduates and graduate students, with an option to enroll in their student plan or submit a waiver.

These university-sponsored plans are convenient and ensure access to local providers. They may also be included in your tuition or billed separately each term.

ACA Health Plans in Pennsylvania

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) allows individuals and families to purchase comprehensive health insurance through the state-run marketplace called Pennie.

Key benefits of ACA plans:

• Essential health benefits, including mental health and preventive care.
• Coverage for preexisting conditions.
• Free preventive services.

You may qualify for financial help:
Use our ACA Subsidy Calculator to estimate your savings.

ACA plans come in metal tiers:

• Bronze: Low premiums, higher out-of-pocket costs—best for minimal usage.
• Silver: Balanced costs; may qualify for cost-sharing reductions.
• Gold: Higher premiums with lower out-of-pocket expenses—ideal for frequent care.
• Platinum: Rare, with the highest premiums but lowest out-of-pocket costs.

Enrollment Tips:

• Apply during Open Enrollment or if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (e.g., moving to Pennsylvania for school).
• Students under 26 can be on a parent’s ACA plan or apply separately based on dependency status.

Medicaid or CHIP in Pennsylvania

Medicaid, also known as Medical Assistance in Pennsylvania, provides free or low-cost health coverage to those who meet income requirements.
Students not claimed as dependents may qualify for Medicaid based on their individual income.

CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) is available for children under 19 in families earning too much for Medicaid but unable to afford private insurance.

How to Apply:

• Online through the state’s COMPASS system: www.compass.state.pa.us
• Local Department of Human Services offices

Other Options for Coverage in Pennsylvania

1. Short-Term Health Insurance

Short-term health insurance offers quick, flexible coverage for students between plans, recent grads, or those aging off parental coverage.

Benefits:

• Fast enrollment (coverage may start next day)
• Affordable premiums
• Telemedicine, urgent care, and prescription discounts

2. Supplemental Health Plans

Supplemental insurance fills coverage gaps. It’s useful if you’re on a high-deductible or short-term plan and want extra protection against surprise costs.

Types:

• Accident, hospital indemnity, critical illness, and cancer plans

3. Dental and Vision Insurance Plans

Adding dental and vision insurance helps manage costs and catch issues early. Plans often include:

• Exams, cleanings, crowns, and braces
• Vision exams, lenses, and LASIK discounts

4. Health Care Sharing Ministry Programs

Faith-based healthcare programs offer a community-driven approach to share medical expenses. These are not insurance but can be an affordable alternative for some students with aligned values.

Features:

• Monthly “shares” instead of premiums
• Often cheaper than traditional plans
• Participation usually requires a statement of faith and healthy lifestyle

5. Fixed Benefit Medical Insurance

Fixed benefit medical insurance pays a set amount per service received.

Advantages:

• Predictable costs
• No deductible
• Works well as supplemental coverage

Understanding Health Insurance Costs

Before choosing a plan, understand key cost terms:

• Premium: Monthly cost of your insurance
• Deductible: What you pay before your plan covers expenses
• Copayment (Copay): Fixed fee per service
• Coinsurance: Percentage you pay after meeting the deductible
• Out-of-Pocket Maximum: Your total yearly cost cap
• In-Network vs. Out-of-Network: Staying in-network helps you avoid extra charges

Need help? Our health insurance glossary breaks down the jargon.

Next Steps

If you’ve decided you need health insurance, compare plans and sign up before your semester begins. Review coverage levels, network availability, and premiums. Whether you stay on a parent’s plan, enroll in your school’s plan, or shop on Pennie, make sure you’re covered so you can focus on your education—not medical bills.