All international students who are not U.S. Citizens or Permanent Residents are automatically enrolled in the International Health Insurance when they register for one credit hour or more. Spouses and/or children of enrolled students are also required to carry health insurance within thirty one days after arrival to the US. The student must enroll their dependents and pay the insurance company for the cost of the dependents’ insurance.

It is recommended that you do not purchase International Health Insurance before you arrive in Albany, as it may not meet the University's Mandatory Health Insurance requirements. You will be required to enroll in our University's group health insurance if you do not have other health insurance that meets the University's health insurance requirements. (Graduate students with assistantships receive health insurance as a benefit and are not automatically enrolled in the mandatory international health insurance. However, they must still purchase MEDEX insurance and health insurance for their dependents, if any.)

The health insurance does not cover physical examinations, routine eye or dental care. You can avoid additional, large health expenses here by completing physical examinations and necessary eye or dental care before you travel to the U.S. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you might consider bringing a second pair and a copy of your prescription.