Student Health Insurance Programs

Individuals ages 18 to 26 are the second most likely age group in America to be uninsured, according to a Gallup Poll released in May 2011. Because of the high cost of private health insurance premiums, as well as the cost of college, many forgo health insurance to save money. However, many colleges require students to have health insurance. Campus health plans, the Affordable Care Act and private student insurance plans make it possible for any student to find coverage.

Campus Health Insurance

• Most major universities offer group health insurance to full-time students. For example, the University of Texas offers a student health insurance plan that covers a variety of medical services. Enrollment in the health plan is mandatory for international students but optional for American students. The plan deductible is $300, but insured students who use the campus University Health Center receive medical care with 100 percent of covered benefits paid without first paying a plan deductible.

College Medical Centers

• Many colleges and universities have on-campus health centers that employ physicians, registered nurses and other medical professionals. For example, at the University of Arizona, the Campus Health Service, or CHS, is an outpatient medical center available to all students taking classes at the school, regardless of whether they are full time or part time. CHS will not turn any student away due to a lack of health insurance, and prices for medical services at the center are typically much lower than those at area hospitals and physician offices. For instance, an uninsured student taking just one credit hour at the University of Arizona would pay just $20 for general office visit and just $10 to rent crutches.

Affordable Care Act

• Many college students are under age 26. The Affordable Care Act of 2010 allows them to remain on or re-enroll in their parents' health insurance policies as a dependent. Other than age, the law does not restrict on who qualifies as a dependent regarding where the dependent lives, his marital status or whether he is financially dependent on his parents.

Private Health Plans

• Students who wish to customize health coverage options or who do not have access to insurance through a campus or parent's health plan can purchase health insurance from a private provider. Private insurers offer many options for coverage and out-of-pocket costs, but students must choose a plan that complies with their school's minimum health insurance requirements when applicable. Many colleges and universities require proof of health insurance at the time of enrollment and automatically register an under-insured student for a campus health insurance plan .