UIC Health Insurance Waiver Guide 2025 for International Students

Introduction

The University of Illinois, Chicago (UIC) offers a mandatory health insurance policy for all eligible students to ensure they have adequate access to healthcare during their academic term. This coverage is provided through the University of Illinois Student Health Insurance Plan (UI SYSTEM). While UI SYSTEM offers extensive benefits, such as coverage for doctor visits, hospital care, prescription medications, and mental health services, it comes at a significant annual cost. 

Fortunately, UIC allows students who already have a comparable health insurance plan to request a health insurance waiver. This guide explains what the waiver is, why it matters, the benefits of using alternative health insurance, how to purchase such a plan, and the step-by-step process to apply for the waiver.

What is an Insurance Fee Waiver?

An insurance fee waiver is a formal request submitted by a student to be excluded from UIC’s default UI SYSTEM enrollment and related fees. By waiving UI SYSTEM, you confirm that you already have an overseas student insurance that meets the University of Illinois, Chicago’s minimum coverage requirements.

If approved, the UI SYSTEM charge is removed from your student account for the applicable term, and you can instead use your health plan. The waiver must be submitted every academic year (or per quarter if you enroll mid-year); it does not carry over automatically.

Why Are Alternative Health Insurance Plans More Affordable?

While UI SYSTEM offers robust coverage, it is not the most budget-friendly option for all students. Here’s why:

• Lower Premiums – Alternative providers, such as Student Cover, often offer plans starting at nearly half the cost of UI SYSTEM.
• Customizable Coverage – You can choose plans that fit your exact needs instead of paying for extras you may not use.
• International Student-Specific Plans – Some alternative plans are designed for F-1 or J-1 visa students, with U.S.-based provider networks and claims offices, at significantly lower rates.
• Annual Savings – Many students save between $1,000–$3,000 annually by switching to a qualified alternative plan

How to Purchase Student Cover Health Insurance

• Visit: www.studentcover.in
• Under the insurance tab, click on student health insurance 
• Enter your university
• Start the enrollment process
• Create your account using your WhatsApp number to receive the OTP
• Fill in the required information
• Upload your documents 
• Submit, and you will be directed to the payment link
• Make a payment, and a policy will be provided to your email

Comparative Cost Analysis

Comparing the University Plan to the Student Cover’s plans reveals potential annual savings:

Note: It is best to check the policy wording or the plan brochures for all the above figures, as they may change according to the student’s age, semester, and the plans offered. Note: For more accurate information, visit the university website mentioned below in the FAQs

How to Apply for the University of Illinois, Chicago Health Insurance Waiver (UI SYSTEM)

Follow these steps to submit your waiver request:

Step 1: Log In

• Go to the University of Illinois System login page.
• Select University of Illinois Chicago (UIC).
• Log in with your UIC NetID and password.

Step 2: Submit Waiver

• Click Request Waiver for the current term.
• Enter insurance details (company name, policy number, group number or N/A, and customer service phone).
• Check the waiver agreement box and click Submit.

Step 3: Confirmation

• A confirmation number will be emailed to your UIC email (and alternate email if provided).
• CampusCare will notify you within 3–5 business days if approved/denied.
• Approved waivers take 7–10 business days to show on your account.

University Waiver Deadlines

• Fall 2025 - 9/12/2025
• Spring 2026 - 2/7/2026
• Summer 2026 - 5/31/2026

Note: For more accurate information, visit the university website mentioned below in the FAQs

How Student Cover Helps

Student Cover is a popular choice among UIC students because:

• It offers pre-approved plans to meet UIC waiver standards.
• Plans are affordable compared to the UI SYSTEM.
• They provide support during the waiver application process.
• Their plans often include nationwide provider networks and 24/7 telehealth services.

Contact Us for 1-on-1 Waiver Assistance

Get in Touch:

Email: info@studentcover.in

WhatsApp or Call: +919650166773

FAQs

1. Is the UI SYSTEM waiver available for all students?

Only for students with alternative coverage that meets UIC’s requirements.

2. Can I apply for the waiver every semester?

Yes, but you must reapply each coverage period.

3. Will my waiver be approved if I have insurance from my home country?

Only if it provides equivalent coverage in the U.S. and satisfies UIC’s conditions.

4. How long does the waiver process take?

Usually 3–5 business days.

5. What happens if my waiver is denied?

You will remain enrolled in UI SYSTEM and must pay the premium.

6. Can I change my insurance plan mid-semester?

Yes, but your waiver approval will be based on the plan active at submission.

7. Do alternative plans cover pre-existing conditions?

Some do, but waiting periods may apply; read policy terms carefully.

8. Are dental and vision included?

Not in most alternative plans; these require separate coverage.

9. Is emergency medical evacuation included in Student Cover?

Yes, in most plans, especially those designed for international students.

10. When should I purchase an alternative plan?

At least 1–2 weeks before the waiver deadline.

11. Where can I find the official  University of Illinois, Chicago health insurance waiver information online?

The most accurate and up-to-date waiver requirements, deadlines, and instructions are available on the official  University of Illinois, Chicago Student Health Services website. Students should always verify details there before applying.

Disclaimer: We are not comparing or recommending one insurance plan over another. We are merely providing informational options so you can make an informed decision. Plan costs, coverage, and eligibility rules vary by student age, semester, provider, and plan year. To ensure accuracy, always verify the latest information via the official UIC Student Health Services website and your insurance provider’s policy materials before making any decisions.