Wisconsin Student Health Insurance Options

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

What to Consider When Searching for Student Health Coverage in Wisconsin

Here are the key factors for students in Wisconsin:

• Are you a resident? In-state students may find it easier to remain on their parents’ plan if their provider network extends to their campus.
• Dependent status? If claimed as a dependent, you can stay on your parents’ plan until age 26. Wisconsin law also allows you to remain on a parent’s plan until age 27 with a rider if you’re not enrolled in employer-sponsored coverage. If you’re turning 26 soon, you may want to explore your own health insurance.
• Stay on parents’ plan or get your own? Staying on their plan may reduce costs, but you’ll only qualify for ACA subsidies if you buy your own policy.
• Cost vs. coverage tradeoff? Cheaper plans like catastrophic or short-term options come with limited benefits. ACA plans usually cost more but offer better protection and coverage.
• Skip insurance? Wisconsin doesn’t mandate coverage, but going uninsured could mean facing overwhelming costs in an emergency or illness.

How Do You Get Covered Under Your Parents’ Plan?

If you’re under 26, you can typically stay on your parents’ plan. In Wisconsin, a rider may extend coverage to age 27. Whether you’re studying in-state or out-of-state, check that local doctors and hospitals near campus are in-network.

Enrollment rules:

• ACA Marketplace plans: You can be added during Open Enrollment or a Special Enrollment Period.
• Employer-sponsored plans: Your parents can enroll you during the employer’s open or qualifying enrollment periods.

How Do You Get Covered Through Your School in Wisconsin?

Many Wisconsin schools offer student health insurance or require students to have coverage.

Examples:

• University of Wisconsin-Madison: Offers access to medical services through University Health Services, and students may purchase their own insurance or remain on a family plan.
• Marquette University: Offers an optional student insurance plan for full-time students; eligibility may depend on credit hours and enrollment status.

Use UnitedHealthcare’s StudentResources tool to search by your university for specific offerings and requirements.

ACA Health Plans in Wisconsin

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) allows individuals and families to buy health insurance through the federal Marketplace. These plans offer essential health benefits, such as hospitalization, mental health care, and prescription drugs, with protections for preexisting conditions.

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

Metal tier options:

• Bronze: Low monthly premiums, higher out-of-pocket costs—best for infrequent care.
• Silver: Balanced costs; qualifies for cost-sharing reductions.
• Gold: Higher premiums but lower out-of-pocket expenses—ideal for regular care.
• Platinum (if offered): Highest monthly costs, lowest expenses for care.

Open Enrollment is from November 1 through January 15, or you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you experience a qualifying life event (like moving for school).

Medicaid or CHIP in Wisconsin

Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) are combined into one program in Wisconsin called BadgerCare Plus.

BadgerCare Plus provides free or low-cost insurance to:

• Individuals and families with low income
• Children under age 19
• Pregnant individuals
• People with disabilities

Covered services include wellness visits, mental health treatment, lab work, hospital stays, and prescriptions.

Apply via:

• ACCESS Wisconsin portal
• Local Department of Health Services

Other Options for Coverage in Wisconsin

1. Short-term health insurance

Short-term medical plans are a flexible, fast solution for students between jobs or waiting for long-term plans. In Wisconsin, these plans last up to 3 months with a 1-month renewal. They don’t cover preexisting conditions or all essential health benefits.

Benefits:

• Quick enrollment and next-day activation
• National provider networks
• Affordable premiums
• Doctor visit copays, telemedicine, and prescription savings

2. Supplemental Health Plans

Supplemental plans fill coverage gaps and help pay for accident, hospital, or critical illness costs. Ideal for students on high-deductible or basic plans.

Types include:

• Accident and critical illness insurance
• Hospital indemnity and cancer coverage
• Year-round enrollment

3. Dental and Vision Insurance Plans

Bundled dental and vision coverage can help manage out-of-pocket costs and support preventive care.

Benefits:

• Exams, cleanings, braces, LASIK, and more
• Discounted bundles
• Ideal for students and families on a budget

4. Health Care Sharing Ministries

Faith-based programs offer a non-traditional alternative for students seeking community-based coverage.

Advantages:

• Lower monthly “shares” instead of premiums
• Flexible and supportive networks
• Values-driven eligibility requirements

5. Fixed Benefit Medical Insurance

Fixed benefit plans pay set amounts per covered service, helping students budget for care without meeting high deductibles.

Perks:

• Predictable, upfront payouts
• Works alongside other coverage
• Fast activation with no network limitations

Understanding Health Insurance Costs

When choosing a plan, understand these key cost terms:

• Premium: Monthly payment to maintain coverage
• Deductible: What you pay before benefits apply
• Copayment: Flat fee per doctor visit or service
• Coinsurance: Your share of costs after deductible
• Out-of-pocket max: The most you’ll pay annually
• In-network vs. out-of-network: Using in-network providers saves money

Need help decoding insurance terms? Use our health insurance glossary for easy definitions.

Next Steps

If you’ve decided you need student health insurance, compare plans early, before classes begin. Evaluate coverage levels, provider networks, and out-of-pocket costs to find the plan that best fits your needs and budget.