Medical Insurance
Due to the extremely high cost of health care in the United States, Washington State University requires that all students on nonimmigrant visas be covered by medical insurance that meets or exceeds the coverage provided by the WSU student medical insurance. International students are automatically billed each semester at the time of registration for the WSU student medical insurance.
Some students are exempt from the insurance requirements:
- Graduate students with half-time graduate assistantships (coverage provided by departments)
- Canadian citizens
- Some sponsored students identified by OISS
If international students can show proof of medical insurance that is equal to or better than that of the WSU insurance plan, they may request a waiver of the WSU insurance. However, students must present an alternate plan to the WSU Health and Wellness Services within five days of the beginning of each semester. All documentation must be in English.
J-1 Exchange Visitors
J-1 students and their dependents are required by law to be covered by medical insurance, which meets the requirement of the Exchange Visitor Program. Visit the Department of State, Exchange Visitor Program to learn more about the J program requirements.
Student Health and Wellness
WSU Health and Wellness Services provides a variety of health care services for students. Located in the Washington Building on Stadium Way, student can obtain care for minor illnesses and injuries. Health and Wellness Services are a low cost way to meet your health needs.
Page Updated: March 5, 2008
