While on a study abroad program, students must be covered by the University's comprehensive student health insurance or by a comparable health insurance that is valid in the program country. In many countries, it is customary to make immediate upfront payments for medical services; then, upon return to the U.S., students bill their insurer for reimbursement. Participants intending to use an alternative policy must confirm with their insurance provider that the coverage is international.
In cases where an alternative policy provides no coverage or emergency-only coverage for international travel, students must either subscribe to the University's student insurance (full-year only) or purchase supplementary short-term travel insurance. Here follows a short list (in no particular order) of insurance companies that provide such coverage. The University of Chicago makes no endorsement of any insurance provider.
Please note that some parental insurance policies only cover students up to age 21. Students who are covered by a parental policy should confirm that this coverage extends through the full term of the program.
Upon accepting an offer of admission to a study abroad program, students will be asked to complete the Study Abroad Health Insurance Coverage Form indicating that their insurance is international.
The University of Chicago arranges automatic membership at no extra cost to the student in a travel and health assistance program provided by Medex Student Accident/Travel Insurance. This program provides coverage of some costs associated with medical emergencies, illness and security issues overseas, as well as useful contacts for assistance with medical or legal issues. The Medex Insurance program does not remove a student’s obligation to have separate and full medical insurance while abroad. Additional details and a policy number will be provided to program participants prior to departure.
Download the Study Abroad Health Insurance Coverage Form.
Download the Study Abroad Health Questionnaire.
Student Care Center:
Suite R-100 in the University Medical Center
773-702-4156
Student Counseling and Resource Service:
5737 S. University Ave.
773-702-9800
Study Abroad Emergency Phone Number:
773-612-4680
(available 24 hrs.)
