Getting Started
International students often have many questions about their health insurance while enrolled at the UW. Most questions can be answered by reviewing the information on this website.
- ISHIP FAQs – Review common questions
- ISHIP Introduction Video – Watch and learn more
- Review the New Student Checklist
International Student Health Insurance Program – ISHIP
In coordination with UW’s International Student Services and Hall Health Center, ISHIP works with international students to meet health insurance requirements while enrolled at the University of Washington.
- International students in an F or J visa status at UW are required by federal and state laws to maintain health insurance while studying in the U.S.
- All F-1 and J-1 eligible international students who are enrolled in an academic program of study and issued an I-20 or DS-2019 by an approved UW Designated School Official (DSO), and are residing in the U.S. are required to purchase the UW’s International Student Health Insurance Plan (ISHIP).
- UW F-1 and J-1 students will automatically be enrolled in the student-only insurance coverage each quarter they are registered for classes.
- Students who plan to travel to the U.S. before the effective date of ISHIP coverage, are encouraged to purchase separately short-term medical coverage during this time period. Information about companies that offer supplemental short-term “GAP” medical coverage can be found on Leaving UW webpage.
Non-International Students
ISHIP coverage is not available to UW students who are U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, or any other non-immigrant visa status. Please refer to Hall Health for insurance plan options and questions about insurance.
Quick Resources
ISHIP Resources
Review helpful videos, brochures & documents.
News & Alerts
Stay on top of latest program information.
Event Calendar
Keep up with related ISS events and info sessions.