Health Insurance Information
Health Insurance is required for all F-1 and J-1 students and scholars at St. Cloud State University.
This mandatory program exists for the protection of international students/scholars and provides a health plan against financial hardship resulting from the need for medical attention. The United States does not have a national health care system available to nonimmigrant students/scholars; therefore, the cost of medical care is the responsibility of the student/scholars.
Since the cost of medical treatment in the United States is so high (the average hospital stay of three days could easily cost over $1,000), St. Cloud State University requires that all new and transferring international students enrolled—as well as J-1 scholars— purchase the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System Student Health Plan. This policy was established by the Minnesota Colleges and Universities System Director of Student Life, St. Paul, MN.
Exemption for Government Sponsored Students – please provide evidence that an Embassy or Government entity is providing you with full health insurance coverage.
New Students
New international degree-seeking students must pay their health insurance before registering for classes. The health insurance charge for the 2009-2010 academic year is $969. If you are arriving in the spring 2010 semester, the charge is $599. Exchange students who are not seeking a degree, and who will be here only for a short time, are also required to purchase university health insurance. Costs vary depending on your program of study. Check for these costs in your welcome packet.
Immunization Record
An immunization record is required for many students attending St. Cloud State University. Information and the form are available at Student Health Services.
Current Students
Expiration date of insurance – August 14th each year.
Renewal of health insurance – payment of health insurance charges must occur by July 15th each year for the following academic year or your classes will immediately be dropped and a hold will be placed on your account. Health Insurance payments can be made to the Cashier’s office.
To guide you further, please review the Health Services Tutorial for International Student health insurance.
J-1 Scholars
All J-1 scholars will be charged health insurance at a rate of $81/month for the duration of their program at St. Cloud State. Please arrange with your department as to who will pay this amount upon your arrival.
Spouses/Children
If you do not wish for St. Cloud State health insurance coverage for your spouse or child, please complete the Health Insurance Release Form for Dependants. We strongly encourage that your spouse/child maintains adequate health insurance while in the U.S. (if not through St. Cloud State) for the reasons mentioned above.
