Student Health Insurance Program (SHIP)
For more information, see SHIP on MassResources.org.
What is the Student Health Insurance Program (SHIP)?
Massachusetts college students are required by law to have health insurance. The health insurance must meet the minimum requirements set by the state. All Massachusetts colleges and universities offer their students a health plan that meets these requirements. The health plans are called Student Health Insurance Programs (SHIPs). Students who want to enroll must pay for the school’s SHIP plan or show that they have other health insurance that is at least as good (“comparable coverage”).
Note: The SHIP Student Health Insurance Program was previously called the QSHIP Qualifying Student Health Insurance Program.
Am I eligible?
You are eligible for SHIP if you are enrolled as a full or part-time student in a certificate or degree program at a Massachusetts college or university. Your health status does not affect your eligibility, but coverage of preexisting conditions may be limited.
Do I have to enroll in SHIP?
Massachusetts law requires all full-time and part-time (75% or more) college students to have health insurance. You must enroll in your school’s SHIP plan unless you have other health insurance with comparable coverage. (See What is comparable coverage? on MassResources.org.)
What benefits will I get?
SHIP plans must offer "reasonably comprehensive" coverage for basic health needs. There is an annual fee to join a SHIP plan, as well as copayments, coinsurance, and limits on coverage. Costs and benefits vary depending on the school. SHIP plans meet the state's mandatory Minimum Creditable Coverage health insurance requirements for Massachusetts residents.
Students at Worcester area colleges can get information about their college's SHIP plan by following the links below:
How do I apply?
The college or university's SHIP annual fee is automatically added to student tuition bills. Students must sign a waiver form showing they have comparable health insurance if they want to opt out of the SHIP plan.
More information
More information about SHIP is on our statewide web site, MassResources.org. When you click on the link below, you will go to MassResources.org. Click "Back" on your browser to return to WorcesterResources.org.
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