Virginia Student Health Insurance Options

If you’re heading off to a college or university in the Old Dominion, 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 Virginia. Learn more about available options and how to enroll.

What to Consider When Searching for Student Health Coverage in Virginia

Here are the key factors for students in Virginia:

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 Virginia?

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

Examples:

• University of Virginia: Requires all students to have coverage. Students who pay a $730 annual student health fee are eligible for the Aetna Student Health Plan at $2,980/year.
• William & Mary: Requires full-time undergraduates to have insurance. The W&M Student Insurance Plan from UnitedHealthcare costs $2,490 annually unless you opt out with proof of other coverage.
• Virginia Tech: Offers the Aetna Student Health Plan for $3,173/year. While insurance isn’t mandatory, students pay a health service fee for access to Schiffert Health Center.

ACA Health Plans in Virginia

The Affordable Care Act 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 levels:

• Bronze: Lower premiums, higher out-of-pocket costs—best for low usage.
• Silver: Moderate premiums, eligible for cost-sharing reductions.
• Gold: Higher premiums, lower out-of-pocket costs—ideal for frequent care.
• Platinum (if available): Highest premiums, lowest out-of-pocket expenses.

Medicaid or CHIP in Virginia

Medicaid is a government program that provides free or low-cost insurance to eligible low-income individuals. Virginia also offers CHIP coverage under FAMIS (Family Access to Medical Insurance Security) for children and teens under 19.

Apply via:

• Cover Virginia
• Local Department of Social Services
• Cover Virginia Call Center: (855) 242-8282

Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, offering access to low-income adults without children. If you’re under 19 or meet income guidelines, you may also qualify for FAMIS Plus or New Health Coverage for Adults.

Other Options for Coverage in Virginia

1. Short-Term Health Insurance

Short-term health insurance offers quick, temporary coverage for students between jobs or waiting for permanent plans.

Benefits include:

• Fast enrollment
• Preventive care and doctor visit copays
• Unlimited telemedicine
• National network access
• Prescription discounts

Note: Virginia law limits plans to three months, with a max of six months in a 12-month period.

2. Supplemental Health Plans

Supplemental insurance covers what your main plan doesn’t. Ideal if you’re on a high-deductible or low-cost plan.

Popular types:

• Accident
• Critical illness
• Hospital indemnity
• Cancer coverage

Many are available year-round.

3. Dental and Vision Insurance Plans

Add dental and vision to your private health insurance for complete wellness.

Key benefits:

• Cleanings, exams, braces, LASIK, and more
• Discounted bundled pricing
• Great for students and families on a budget

4. Health Care Sharing Ministry Programs

Faith-based healthcare programs are alternatives to traditional insurance. They allow members to share costs within a community.

Features:

• Monthly contributions (“shares”) instead of premiums
• Focus on Christian values and healthy lifestyles
• Often more affordable than traditional plans

5. Fixed Benefit Medical Insurance

Fixed Benefit medical insurance pays a set amount per service, offering budget-friendly predictability.

Advantages:

• First-dollar coverage with no deductible
• Direct payments to you or providers
• Complements student, low-income, or private plans

Understanding Health Insurance Costs

Before selecting a plan, understand these key terms:

• Premium: Monthly payment
• Deductible: What you pay before coverage starts
• Copayment (Copay): Flat fee per visit or service
• Coinsurance: Shared percentage after deductible
• Out-of-Pocket Maximum: Annual spending limit
• In-Network vs. Out-of-Network: In-network care is typically cheaper

Need help with definitions? Check our health insurance glossary.

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.