International students in Georgia, USA, must have health insurance. It’s mandatory and more complicated than it appears. Here’s what you need to know: understand the rules, your responsibilities, and which plans qualify, especially if you’re on an F or J visa or in programs with clinical elements like nursing or occupational therapy. This guide offers straightforward, practical advice.
🎯 Why Health Insurance is a Big Deal in Georgia (U.S.)
Studying in the U.S. comes with a lot of forms and rules, and health insurance is non-negotiable. In Georgia, the University System of Georgia (USG) governs most public universities, and it mandates insurance coverage for all F-1, F-2, J-1, and J-2 visa holders enrolled in participating institutions.
If you’re one of them, you’re either:
- Automatically enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Program (SHIP), or
- Required to waive SHIP by proving you already have qualifying insurance that meets Affordable Care Act (ACA) standards.
Skipping insurance or forgetting to waive it? That’s not an option. You’ll be enrolled and billed through your student account.
🛡️ What Exactly Is SHIP?
The Student Health Insurance Program (SHIP) in Georgia is a standardized, ACA-compliant health insurance plan tailored for international and certain domestic students. The program is administered by UnitedHealthcare StudentResources (UHC SR), one of the top student health insurance providers in the U.S.
🏛️ SHIP Is Used Across Georgia’s Public Universities
Here are just a few of the institutions that use SHIP:
- University of Georgia (UGA)
- Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)
- Georgia State University
- Kennesaw State University
- Augusta University
- Georgia Southern University
- Valdosta State University, and others
So, if you’re studying at one of these schools, chances are you’re covered — literally — by SHIP unless you opt out with approved alternative insurance.
📋 SHIP Coverage: What’s Actually Included?
The SHIP plan ensures comprehensive student health coverage, safeguarding against financial ruin from illness or injury. It’s more than an immigration formality; it’s essential protection.
Here’s what you can expect:
✅ Accident and Sickness Coverage
- Medical treatment for injuries, illnesses, surgeries, and hospitalization.
- Inpatient and outpatient care.
✅ Mental Health Services
- Counseling, psychiatric services, and behavioral health care — both inpatient and outpatient.
✅ Prescription Drug Coverage
- Includes brand-name and generic medications.
✅ Preventive and Wellness Services
- Screenings for cancers (e.g., mammography), diabetes care, immunizations, and annual check-ups as per ACA standards.
✅ Medical Evacuation and Repatriation
- At least $50,000 for evacuation and $25,000 for repatriation of remains — essential for F and J visa holders.
✅ Emergency Services
- ER visits, urgent care, and ambulance services.
✅ Worldwide Coverage
- You’re protected not just in Georgia, but also during visits back home or international travel.
💸 How Much Does SHIP Cost?
School fees range from $1,200 to $3,000 annually, varying by institution. Payments are made per semester or year, billed directly to your student account. For instance, Georgia Tech’s 2024–2025 semester fee is about $1,285.
📑 What If I Want to Waive SHIP?
Good question — and yes, it’s possible.
If you already have ACA-compliant health insurance (like through a parent, spouse, or private U.S.-based insurer), you can submit a waiver request. But your plan must meet or exceed every one of the following:
❗ Minimum Waiver Requirements:
- At least $250,000 in annual benefit coverage (some schools require $500,000).
- Pre-existing condition coverage with no waiting period.
- Mental health and substance abuse care.
- Coverage for medical evacuation and repatriation.
- A deductible under $500 per year.
- Prescription coverage.
- Coverage effective for the entire semester or academic year.
Keep in mind: Travel insurance does not count. Neither do discount plans or emergency-only plans. If your coverage is even slightly inadequate, your waiver will be denied.
🕐 Timing Matters: Don’t Miss the Deadlines
Each university sets a waiver deadline, typically near the start of each semester. If you miss it, you’re automatically enrolled in SHIP and charged — even if you had other coverage.
So always check your student portal and email for notices.
🌍 UnitedHealthcare StudentResources (UHC SR): The Core SHIP Provider
At the center of Georgia’s SHIP offering is UnitedHealthcare StudentResources (UHC SR). They have a long history of providing student-focused healthcare solutions.
🔑 Key Features of UHC SR Plans:
- 24/7 NurseLine and telemedicine services through HealthiestYou.
- Access to one of the largest U.S. provider networks (no referrals needed for most services).
- Multilingual customer service — essential for international students navigating a complex system.
- Mobile-friendly portal and app to manage your coverage, download ID cards, and track claims.
You’ll receive a physical insurance card and digital credentials shortly after enrollment, which you’ll use for doctor visits, prescriptions, and hospital care.
🧠 Pro Tip: Students in Clinical Programs Face Extra Scrutiny
Studying nursing, medicine, public health, or similar fields? If your degree includes clinical placements, your insurance needs might be stricter. Your plan should cover professional liability, sharps injury care, and exposure services for bloodborne pathogens. Consult your department or academic advisor. Some schools partner with insurers to offer enhanced plans for clinical students.
🔍 Other Insurance Options (Outside of SHIP)
If you’re exploring non-USG schools or want to compare plans for waivers, these providers often offer ACA-compliant student health insurance accepted by Georgia universities:
1. ISO Student Health Insurance
- Popular among international students.
- Offers Basic, Standard, and Platinum plans.
- Includes medical evacuation and repatriation.
2. Compass Student Insurance
- Tailored to F-1 and J-1 students.
- Offers different tiers that often meet waiver requirements.
3. PSI International Student Health Plans
- Includes extensive outpatient/inpatient benefits.
- Strong mental health coverage and 24/7 customer service.
4. Cigna Global (Student Version)
- High-cost, premium coverage.
- Ideal if you want international coverage beyond the U.S.
Make sure you check the waiver requirements for your university before purchasing from any provider.
🛠️ How to Enroll or Waive SHIP
Each institution has its own student health insurance portal where you can either:
- Enroll and confirm your SHIP coverage, or
- Submit a waiver request and upload your alternate insurance documents.
Here are examples:
- University of Georgia SHIP Info
- Georgia Tech SHIP Waiver Portal
- Georgia State University SHIP Information
You’ll find step-by-step guides, FAQs, and policy summaries there.
✈️ Coming to Georgia? Here’s a Quick Checklist
✅ Ensure your visa (F-1, J-1) is active and tied to your academic program
✅ Purchase or confirm SHIP enrollment before or during orientation
✅ Know your university’s waiver deadlines
✅ Make sure your plan meets all ACA and SHIP standards
✅ Save a digital and printed copy of your insurance ID card
✅ Download your insurer’s app to access services on the go
✅ Keep contact info for your insurer and university’s health office handy
🧾 Final Thoughts
While juggling applications, visa appointments, and packing for your trip to Georgia, health insurance might seem secondary. However, as an international student in the U.S., it is vital. Don’t merely fulfill requirements; choose a plan that genuinely safeguards you, covering everything from broken bones to unexpected hospital expenses.
Choose UnitedHealthcare StudentResources for dependable student coverage. It’s tailored for you. Prioritize your education and Georgia experience while staying informed and protected.
