Student Health Insurance

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SIUC requires all students who are taking on-campus courses to have health insurance. To meet this mandate, all students taking on-campus courses will be billed the student health insurance fee. Students who already have health insurance coverage may apply to waive the fee by completing the waiver process prior to the posted deadlines. Step-by-step instructions for completing the waiver application can be found in the FAQs below. All students taking on-campus courses who do not complete the waiver process by the posted deadline will be automatically enrolled in the SIU Student Health Insurance Plan and will not be eligible for a refund.

Important Update on Student Health Insurance Enrollment and Waiver Process:

Beginning Fall 2025, there will be a new process for all students wishing to enroll in or waive the university-sponsored health insurance plan. This new system will no longer be managed by Gallagher Student Health. Instead, students will work directly with the insurance carrier, UnitedHealthcare Student Resources, to complete their insurance selections.

For students requesting a waiver of the student health insurance fee, please note:
All waiver submissions must meet the university’s health insurance requirements in full.

It is strongly recommended that students confirm with their insurance provider or agent that the plan meets all university health insurance requirements before purchasing or submitting it for a waiver.

International students will also be required to upload proof of repatriation and medical evacuation coverage as part of the waiver application.

Step-by-step instructions on how to complete the enrollment or waiver process through UnitedHealthcare Student Resources will be available in the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section below, under “How do I enroll” and “ How do I waive” the student health insurance plan?

Students who are registered for ONLY web based-distance education courses are not eligible for the Student Health Insurance Plan and are not charged the insurance fee.

If it is your intent to enroll in the student health insurance plan, it is strongly recommended that you enroll yourself as soon as possible. Doing so assures you have access to off-campus benefits on the effective date of the policy. Automatic enrollment does NOT occur until after the posted waiver deadline.

The Student Health Insurance Plan provides health insurance coverage that complements the Student Health Center, covering expenses such as pharmaceuticals, immunizations, and off-campus services such as emergency rooms, hospitalizations, surgery, ambulance, and specialty care.

United Plan Summary (Student Health Insurance Plan)

Student Health Insurance Referral Requirement (PDF)


Frequently Asked Questions

When to contact
United Healthcare:

When to contact
Student Health Services: