All colleges and universities in Massachusetts require full-time students to maintain comprehensive health insurance. This ensures you have access to quality care throughout your studies. Boston’s world-class healthcare system makes it easier to stay healthy while focusing on academics.
Your Main Health Insurance Options
1. Stay on a Parent’s Plan
Under the Affordable Care Act, you can remain covered under your parents’ plan until age 26, even if you’re married, financially independent, or living away from home. This is often the most convenient and affordable option, especially if the plan offers good nationwide or Massachusetts coverage. Confirm that it meets your college’s requirements before waiving the school plan.
2. Enroll in Your College’s Student Health Plan (SHP)
Every Boston-area college offers its own student health insurance plan. These are tailored for students, usually very affordable, and provide comprehensive coverage including on-campus health services, mental health support, prescriptions, preventive care, and emergency services. Many plans extend coverage year-round (including summers and study abroad) and may cover dependents. Colleges require you to either enroll in their plan or submit a waiver proving comparable coverage from another qualifying plan.
3. Independent/Commercial Student Plans
Several insurers offer student-focused policies that meet Massachusetts requirements. These can be good alternatives if you need specific benefits not covered by your school’s plan.
4. Marketplace Plans
You can purchase coverage through the Massachusetts Health Connector (healthconnector.org) or Healthcare.gov. These offer flexibility but are often more expensive than parent or school plans.
Important Note for International Students: Insurance from your home country typically does not satisfy U.S. college requirements. You must purchase a qualifying U.S.-based plan (usually the school’s plan is the easiest choice).
Accessing Care on Campus
Most colleges have convenient on-campus health centers offering routine care, minor illness treatment, vaccinations, mental health counseling, and basic diagnostics — often at low or no cost for enrolled students.
In your first week, bring copies of your medical history (immunizations, allergies, current prescriptions, and any ongoing conditions) to the health center. This helps them provide better care.
Using Your Insurance Off-Campus
For care beyond the campus clinic, use in-network providers to minimize out-of-pocket costs. Your insurance card includes a member services number or website to find doctors, specialists, urgent care centers, and hospitals.
Urgent Care is ideal for non-life-threatening issues (sprains, infections, minor injuries) and is often available evenings and weekends without appointments.
Emergencies: Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Boston is home to some of the world’s best hospitals, including Massachusetts General, Brigham and Women’s, Beth Israel Deaconess, and Boston Children’s — many affiliated with local universities.
Practical Tips
- Understand your plan’s deductible, copays, coinsurance, and network before you need care.
- Keep your insurance card and important medical information accessible.
- Review mental health benefits — most student plans include counseling sessions.
- International students: Confirm coverage for repatriation and emergency medical evacuation if needed.
Taking the time to understand your health insurance options and available resources will help you stay healthy, avoid unexpected bills, and focus on your studies and enjoying Boston.
Last updated: July 2026. Insurance rules can change — always verify details with your college’s student health office and your insurance provider.
