Health Insurance for College Students

Health Insurance for College Students

Resources for Students and Parents

Some states are passing laws that require insurance companies to extend coverage for children if they live with their parents or are unmarried regardless of their full-time student status. These states include Colorado, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Mexico, Rhode Island, and Utah but other states such as California, Connecticut, Florida, Minnesota, Missouri, and New York are considering passing similar laws in the near future.

Some states have created group type coverage to help individuals with pre-existing conditions that are not eligible for other group plans. Some states allow much higher premiums on these policies but other states limit what these individuals can be charged.

Another state supported option is Medicaid. You must meet income requirements but each state sets its own other requirements. Most children, disabled persons, and pregnant women who need care are given free coverage through Medicaid.

To find out what state insurance options are available to you, check out our find insurance by state.

Insurance from your State
 

Fast Facts

  • One type of policy you may come across is one for individuals living with pre-existing health conditions who are having a hard time getting coverage. Since this is a growing demand throughout the U.S., many states have created state high-risk pool insurance plans that give these individuals access to the health care they need. Some of these plans have premiums that are much higher than the average policy and others have limits on what the insured can be charged on premiums.
  • Another option available in most states is a Medicaid program. Different states have their eligibility requirements, but all require income guidelines to be met. Most children, disabled persons and pregnant women that meet these guidelines are given free coverage.Not all states have the same type of plans - for instance, some don't have high-risk pool insurance and Medicaid alternatives. It is important that you visit your state's web site to see what type of plans you can find.
  • Not all states have the same type of plans - for instance, some don't have high-risk pool insurance and Medicaid alternatives. It is important that you visit your state's web site to see what type of plans you can find.