Information and Steps to Apply for Health Insurance Waiver
When is the due date to submit my waiver application?
*** The deadline for Fall 2012 is Friday, September 21, 2012.***
Who is eligible to apply for Health Insurance Waiver?
All international students are automatically enrolled in SUNY HTH Health Insurance and MEDEX Emergency Assistance and Evacuation Insurance once you register for classes. However, you may be able to opt out of HTH by showing proof that you are enrolled in another health insurance program with comparable or better medical coverage. You may not opt out of MEDEX as it is an emergency insurance and is required for all international students.
If you are F-2 or J-2 dependents who are covered under your F-1 or J-1 spouse, you may also apply for waiver.
NOTE: If you have Life Insurance, Travel Insurance, or Property Insurance, please do not complete a waiver application request. Those types of insurance do NOT meet the SUNY requirements and will not be accepted as a substitute for the SUNY HTH Health Insurance.
What documents do I need to apply for waiver?
You will need to fill out the Waiver Application Form and attach the following documents:
- Front and Back of your health insurance ID card, and
- Your health insurance coverage in full version and in English. Alternatively, you may submit a letter from your insurance company to verify that your health insurance policy is comparable to the HTH Health Insurance Coverage Policy.
How do I apply for the waiver?
Please submit the Waiver Application Form and all required documents in person, by mail, fax, or via e-mail to ISSS. Please specify "Health Insurance Waiver Application" in the subject line when you submit electronically. All required documents must be attached and include in the application to avoid delay or denial of your application.
What happens after I submit my waiver?
After receipt of your application and review of your insurance policy, a decision will be made within two weeks.
- If waiver is approved, you should be able to see the change under Student Account on your MyUAlbany three weeks after you applied. You will not hear back from ISSS if it is approved.
- If waiver is denied, you will receive an e-mail from ISSS. You will still be enrolled in the HTH health insurance.
Will I be able to provide additional documents after due date for consideration after my initial waiver is being declined?
No, you will not be able to reapply for the current semester if your waiver is denied and it is past due. However, you can apply again in the beginning of next semester with your new insurance policy.
Do I need to apply again next semester or next academic year if my waiver is being approved for the current term?
Yes, even if you will be carrying the same health insurance that has been approved, you must apply for the waiver to show that the health insurance is still effective. If ISSS does not receive the new application, you will be enrolled in the SUNY mandatory HTH Health Insurance.
