Affordable Health Care Plans for Students

Many college students struggle to find affordable health insurance. Most colleges require students to have some kind of insurance coverage, but as a student it can be difficult to pay monthly or annual premium costs. Fortunately there are low-cost health insurance plans available to college students. Health insurance can protect you from medical bankruptcy and from catastrophic medical events.

Parents' Insurance Plan

• U.S. law just changed, allowing parents to continue coverage for their children until they are 26 years old as long as they are currently enrolled in college. This option is usually less expensive than an individual plan. Although you may have to deal with out-of-network costs if you are attending college in a different state, it may still be less expensive than purchasing your own insurance.

Student Insurance Through School

• Major colleges and universities offer insurance programs for their students. The coverage is generally basic, and may not include maternity insurance. The premiums can be paid at the same time as tuition, out of your student loans or education grants. The insurance premiums are usually lower than individual premiums, and these plans are a good option if you have a preexisting condition. These plans usually limit most coverage to the student health center, and you may be able to visit a doctor there for free.

Individual Insurance Plans

• Individual insurance plans, many offered by well-known companies, are available to everyone. You choose your level of coverage--most college students are healthy and at low-risk for medical problems, so you may not need the most comprehensive coverage. However, you do need your plan to cover catastrophic events such as hospitalization or a serious accident so you will be protected from medical bankruptcy. You can choose from traditional individual insurance plans or from high-deductible plans where coverage does not kick in until you have paid up to the deductible amount.

Employer Insurance Plans

• Many students do not work full-time and may have difficulty finding health insurance through an employer. However, there are companies who will provide insurance for employees for part-time work. The number of hours you work will affect your eligibility. Some companies offer insurance to employees who work 20 hours a week, while others require 32 hours a week. UPS and Starbucks offer benefit packages for part-time employees. Another option is to work full-time and go to school part-time. If you have preexisting conditions or significant medical expenses, this may be the best option for you to consider.