UH Policy on Health Insurance
All non-immigrants on student visas are required to enroll in a University of Hawaii’ endorsed student health insurance plan or furnish proof of enrollment in a health program whose benefits meet the minimum insurance requirements set by the President or the President’s designee.
F-1 Students
If you are an F-1 student, you must have a health insurance plan approved by the Student Health Insurance Office (SHIO). Your course registration will be held by SHIO until you are cleared. Direct all required documents and questions related to health insurance to SHIO, not ISS.
J-1 Students
If you are a J-1 student, you must have a health insurance plan approved by ISS. Your course registration will be held by ISS until you are cleared. All required documents and questions related to health insurance should be directed to ISS.
UH Sponsored Health Insurance
The UH Student Health Insurance plan offers coverage from the middle of August each year. It can be purchased at the beginning of each semester, or in advance for the entire year. The plan price and coverage is subject to changes each year. The Student Plan may be purchased on-line or by mail.
- HMSA Student Health Insurance (website and online application)
Alternative Health Insurance
Alternative insurance plans from reliable insurance providers may also be accepted per UH policy, as long as the alternative health insurance coverage meets adequate standards. A form to request approval of alternative insurance is updated each summer and posted on the ISS website. Deadline to submit alternative insurance requests to ISS is by the 1st day of classes for fall and spring semesters.