5 Health Insurance Options for College Students

Despite the ever-changing health care landscape, one of the truths that can be counted on is that even college students should have health insurance coverage. At this time, these students have several affordable options

Consider the following 5 ways a college student may be insured for health care:

1. Parent’s Health Plan

Under the Affordable Health Plan, children under 26 years of age can remain on a parent’s health plan. If the student goes to school in a different state than the parent, contact the insurance provider to see if there are in-network providers where the college is located. Often, larger insurers have network affiliations in other states. If there are no coverage options in the college’s area or state and a student remains on the parent’s plan, preventive care and treatment for long-term health issues will need to be taken care of away from school.

2. Student Health Plans

Many colleges offer student health plans. Premium expenses are grouped with other college expenses like tuition, so student loans can help pay for the insurance. A student health plan is a great option for older students no longer eligible to remain on their parent’s plan. However, college health plans may have more limited coverage.

3. Catastrophic Health Plans

With low premiums and high deductibles, catastrophic health plans are good for protecting the holder in worst-case scenarios. These plans are for people under 30 or for any age with particular exemptions, including hardship or affordability.

4. Affordable Health Care (ACA)

As long as the ACA, or Obamacare, is in place, enrollees who qualify for financial assistance (Federal tax credits) that lowers premiums are covered for essential health benefits with individual policies through the ACA marketplace. The applicant must be within 100% to 400% of the Federal Poverty Level to qualify for premium assistance.

5. Medicaid

Medicaid is a state and federal program that covers individuals with limited income. When people apply for ACA coverage they are informed if they qualify for Medicaid coverage.

To learn more about student medical insurance coverage and what it covers, see information on the Student Medical Insurance Quotes page. The quote generator can be used to compare policies and premium costs.