International Services Office
The International Services Office will be an important resource for every international student. The ISO provides assistance to 2,500 students and 1,500 visiting faculty and scholars. Representing more than 100 countries, these distinguished international visitors contribute to the institution’s academic and research objectives and enhance the rich diversity and cosmopolitan character of the University.
Health Care and Insurance
Washington State Law (WAC 478-160-260) requires that all international students maintain adequate health insurance while attending the University of Washington. All regularly admitted, degree-seeking international students who are not attending the University as part of an exchange program are required to purchase the Accident and Sickness Insurance Plan designed for UW students and their dependents.
The University of Washington maintains a professionally staffed Health Center to provide treatment for basic medical or emotional conditions for current UW students. It does not, however, provide major surgery, major illness, or overnight care. The UW Accident and Sickness Insurance Plan provides inexpensive uniform coverage for all students and meets the minimum requirements of state law. Insurance coverage for a spouse or child can also be purchased for an additional cost. The purchase of this insurance will prevent overwhelming medical costs to students and their dependents in the event they become ill.
Health Care in the U.S.
In the U.S., each individual pays his or her own medical expenses, and medical care is very expensive. Make every effort to be insured during your entire stay in this country. Even with the UW Health Center and insurance plan, you can expect some “out-of-pocket” expenses. We urge you to purchase this insurance for the entire year, so that you will be covered whether or not you are enrolled each subsequent quarter. We also advise that you complete any medical treatments before leaving home, as your health insurance may exclude pre-existing conditions for 6 months.
