Health and Dental Insurance

By requiring students to have health plan coverage, the University ensures that all students have access to medical care and can maintain good health, which is essential for academic success.

Eligible students are automatically enrolled in the University-sponsored Student Health Benefit Plan. Students may waive enrollment in the SHBP by providing verifiable health plan information per the instructions during registration and/or found online at www.shb.umn.edu. If the student’s health plan coverage is not verifiable, the student will be automatically enrolled (if eligible) and the student’s University account will be charged the full, non-refundable semester coverage fee. Health plan information provided by students is subject to a periodic audit. If a student fails to provide proof of active, verifiable health plan coverage by the enrollment deadline, the student will be automatically enrolled in the University-sponsored SHBP for the entire semester. Coverage must be in force the first day of classes.

The University of Minnesota requires all international students and their dependents to purchase the University-sponsored SHBP unless they are eligible for a waiver. At the time international students arrive at the University of Minnesota, they will have their documents validated. International students must enroll in the University-sponsored SHBP (or provide proof of coverage eligible to waive the plan) at that time and remain enrolled until the date they leave the University. The cost of the plan will be charged to their University account and must be paid along with their tuition and fees.

Non-degree seeking, certificate-seeking, distance learning, EMBA, PTMBA, and Continuing Education students are not eligible to enroll in the University-sponsored SHBP.

The University of Minnesota is proud to provide the optional Dental Buy-Up Plan to help you stay smiling.

The Dental Buy-Up Plan provides year-round dental care (when initially enrolled in the Fall semester). The Office of Student Health Benefits has partnered with Delta Dental of Minnesota to provide this coverage. When opting into the Dental Buy-Up Plan, you gain access to restorative dental benefits, covered between 50-80%, including services such as emergency treatment, fillings, and tooth removal. Learn more.

Contact the Office of Student Health Benefits with any questions you have about the Dental Buy-Up Plan, 1-800-232-9017.

Q: Do I need health insurance? 
A: It is mandatory that all students carry health insurance. Recent high school graduates may be covered under their parents’ health plan.

Q: Does UMC have a student health insurance program?
A: Yes, students can purchase health insurance by the semester. If you purchase it in the spring semester, you will be covered until mid August.

Q: How do I pay for health insurance?
A: The premium will be placed on the fee statement for all registered students taking 6 or more credits, unless you present verification that you are currently covered by another health insurance. All financial information regarding health insurance is handled by the Business Affairs Office.

Q: What if I am covered by my parents' insurance? 
A: Please bring your health insurance card with you. You will need to waive the policy in your MyU account.

Q: How does the student health insurance plan work? 
A: The student insurance company is Student Health Benefit Plan. In the event of injury or sickness, an insured student should seek care at Health Services. If further referral is necessary, it can be arranged through Health Services. If Health Services is not available, you can obtain treatment from the nearest hospital or physician. To learn more about the Student Health Benefit Plan visit the Office of Student Health Benefits, University of Minnesota 1-800-232-9017. If you have questions or you wish to report a claim, call BCBS at 1-866-870-0348.

Q: Is dental insurance offered to students? 
A: Preventive and periodontal dental benefits are included in the Student Health Benefit Plan (SHBP) for primary members (students) and pediatric members (under age 19). Optional restorative services can be obtained for a fee.