International Services Office
The Office for International Students & Scholars will be an important resource for every international student. The ISO provides assistance to 3,000 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 Insurance at the UW
Health insurance that meets specific requirements is mandatory at the University of Washington for all international students and their accompanying dependents. The University requires health insurance for international students for numerous reasons including, among others:
*Washington State law
*Federal law
*Health care is very expensive and complicated in the U.S.
*The U.S. does not have a national health care plan
*Health services may be restricted if you do not have health insurance
Washington State law (WAC 478-160-260) requires that all international students on temporary visas have accidental injury and illness insurance while attending the University of Washington.
Federal law (22 CFR Section 62.14) requires that all J-1 exchange visitors and their dependents obtain health insurance for the duration of their participation at the UW which meets the minimum specified criteria.
Therefore, students are required to either purchase the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) or to establish to the University’s satisfaction that you have comparable coverage from a U.S.-based company that complies with all applicable UW policies, as well as state and federal laws.
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. Even with the UW health insurance plan for students, you can expect some “out-of-pocket” expenses. We encourage 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 preexisting conditions for six months.