UCI Student Insurance Waiver Guide 2025–2026

1. What is an Insurance Waiver?

As a part of your journey, it is a legal and practical necessity to have the right health insurance in the US. University of California, Irvine (UCI), automatically enrolls students in its UC Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP). The cost may go up to $6,847/year, depending on your program.

While it provides excellent benefits, it comes at a high cost and may not always be necessary if you already have a valid alternate plan through an external provider (such as Student Cover). If your alternate insurance policy meets the university’s insurance fee waiver requirements , you can submit a health insurance waiver request to opt out of UC SHIP and avoid paying the associated premium.

At Student Cover, we will help you navigate the university student insurance fee waiver plan. This will include how to assess your current plan, meet waiver deadlines, avoid unnecessary penalties, prepare accurate documents, and submit the waiver application on time. Our team ensures that students make well-informed decisions and stay protected, both financially and mentally, while studying abroad. 

2. Why Are Student Cover Plans More Affordable?

UCSHIP is a large group plan made for both domestic and international students. This broader risk pool increases the cost per student.

In contrast, Student Cover designs health insurance specifically for international students on F-1 or J-1 visas. This makes the premiums more affordable, still meeting all UCI SHIP fee waiver requirements.

With Student Cover, you get:

• Plans that meet UCI’s SHIP fee waiver policy
• Access to nationwide networks of doctors and hospitals
• Premiums that can save you up to 70% per year
• Support for vaccinations, mental health, and preventive care

Comparative Cost Analysis

All figures are based on students under age 22 using in-network services. For older students, spouse/dependent coverage, or J-1 visa plans, contact Student Cover for a custom quote.

3. How to Choose the Right Health Insurance Plan?

When evaluating insurance plans, look beyond the premium. Consider the overall value and usability:

• Premium: Is it affordable for the full academic year?
• Deductible: Will you need to pay a lot before coverage begins?
• Coinsurance: What percentage of expenses does the insurer cover?
• Out-of-Pocket Max: Is there a safety cap on your total costs?
• Network Access: Are nearby doctors and hospitals included?
• Added Features: Coverage for adult vision, mental health, and vaccines

4. How to Purchase Student Cover Insurance

Step 1: Visit the Student Cover Website

• Go to: studentcover.in/uci/

Step 2: Pick a UCI-Approved Plan

• All plans shown (World Elite, World Elite Plus, SC Plus, SC Elite) meet UCI waiver requirementsChoose the one that fits your healthcare and financial needs

Step 3: Create Your Student Cover Account

• Fill in your details accurately

Step 4: Complete Payment Online

• Pay using a domestic or international card
• Use your home country billing address if needed

Step 5: Get Your Documents

• Access your Policy Certificate, Insurance Card through your Student Cover dashboard

5. How to Waive UCI Health Insurance (SHIP)

Step 1: Go to the UCI Waiver Portal

• Visit: https://www2.academichealthplans.com/school/7006.html
• Select University of California, Irvine (UCI)
• Log in with your UCI student credentials

Step 2: Fill Out the Waiver Form

• Choose “Waive Fall 2025–26”
• Fill in your personal details and insurance information
• Upload your Student Cover policy documents

Step 3: Wait for Approval

• The waiver decision usually takes 5–7 business days
• Once approved, the SHIP fee is removed from your account
• If you have already paid the SHIP fee, you may receive a refund via your UCI billing account.

Important Waiver Deadlines for 2025–2026

• Fall Regular: 11/Aug/2025 -  8/Sep/2025

6. Need Help? Get 1-on-1 Waiver & Claim Assistance

Whether you're choosing a plan, applying for the waiver, or looking for a doctor, we're here for you.

 WhatsApp or Call: +919650166773

Email: info@studentcover.in 

Student CoverYour trusted insurance partner for international students at UCI and across the U.S. Affordable,  UCI-approved, and easy to manage so that you can focus on your studies, not your bills.