Tennessee Student Health Insurance Options

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

What to Consider When Searching for Student Health Coverage in Tennessee

Here are the key factors for students in Tennessee:

• 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.

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 Tennessee?

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

Examples:

• University of Tennessee: Offers a Student Health Insurance Plan through UnitedHealthcare for full-time students (6+ undergraduate or 3+ graduate credit hours). The plan costs $2,208 annually and includes coverage for prescriptions, and optional dental and vision. Students are encouraged to visit the Student Health Center for care first.
• Tennessee State University: Doesn’t currently offer a health plan for U.S. students, but refers students to the Tennessee Board of Regents’ Student Health Insurance Exchange to compare options.

ACA Health Plans in Tennessee

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. Check your eligibility with our ACA Subsidy Calculator.

Plan tiers:

• Bronze: Low premiums, higher out-of-pocket costs.
• Silver: Moderate premiums; eligible for cost-sharing reductions.
• Gold: Higher premiums, lower out-of-pocket costs.
• Platinum: Highest premiums, lowest costs at point of care (if available in your area).

Medicaid or CHIP in Tennessee

TennCare Medicaid is Tennessee’s Medicaid program offering free or low-cost health coverage for low-income residents and those with disabilities. The state’s CHIP program is called CoverKids, which provides comprehensive, affordable health insurance for children and young adults up to age 19 who don’t qualify for Medicaid.

Apply via:

• TennCare Connect: https://tenncareconnect.tn.gov
• Local Department of Human Services

Other Options for Coverage in Tennessee

1. Short-Term Health Insurance

Short-term health insurance is a flexible and fast solution—ideal for those between school terms or recent grads. In Tennessee, these plans can last up to 364 days and be renewed for up to 36 months.

Benefits:

• Quick enrollment and next-day coverage
• Telemedicine access
• Affordable premiums
• Wide doctor network options

2. Supplemental Health Plans

Supplemental insurance helps cover expenses your primary health insurance doesn’t—especially helpful if you’re on a high-deductible plan.

Types include:

• Accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity plans
• Daily expense coverage during recovery
• Year-round enrollment

3. Dental and Vision Insurance Plans

Dental and vision coverage helps maintain overall wellness and is budget-friendly for students.

Coverage includes:

• Exams, cleanings, and procedures
• Glasses, lenses, and LASIK discounts
• Bundled savings when paired with medical plans

4. Health Care Sharing Ministry Programs

Faith-based healthcare programs are alternatives to traditional insurance. These nonprofit organizations share members’ medical costs.

Highlights:

• Lower monthly costs
• Community-based support
• Must meet faith and lifestyle requirements

5. Fixed Benefit Medical Insurance

Fixed Benefit medical insurance pays set amounts per service, helping you avoid high deductibles.

Top advantages:

• Cash payouts to you or providers
• No network restrictions
• Complements other types of insurance coverage

Understanding Health Insurance Costs

Know these key terms when comparing plans:

• Premium: Your monthly insurance cost.
• Deductible: Amount you pay before coverage starts.
• Copayment (Copay): Fixed fee for services like doctor visits.
• Coinsurance: Your share of costs after the deductible.
• Out-of-Pocket Maximum: Max you’ll pay per year for covered services.
• In-Network vs. Out-of-Network: Staying in-network helps control costs.

Need help with terminology? Use our health insurance glossary to learn more.

Next Steps

If you’ve decided you need health insurance, compare plans and sign up before your semester begins. Evaluate coverage levels, premiums, and provider networks to make the best choice for your health—and your wallet.