Frequently Asked Questions

Waiver

Purdue University requires all F-1 international students, to participate in a University-sponsored medical insurance plan or to obtain an approved waiver of coverage.

You will be able to apply for a waiver during the following enrollment periods:

Fall Semester: 07/01/2025 8AM ET - 09/02/2025 5PM ET

Spring/Summer Semester: 12/01/2025 8AM ET - 02/02/2026 5PM ET

Student Health Insurance Plan Waiver Criteria

Purdue University- Northwest has established circumstances in which an international student can request a waiver to the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) by providing alternative health insurance coverage. To be approved for a waiver, your health plan must meet the requirements and be submitted with proof of documentation prior to the deadline, 09/02/2025 by 5PM ET.

The only categories in which you can apply for a waiver are:

  • Government-sponsored students whose home government pays 100% for tuition and insurance for students and does not just supply funds to purchase an insurance plan of their choice.
  • Student is 100% financially sponsored (including tuition, living expenses, medical expenses, etc.) under a select international organization as listed on the waiver form.
  • Student is covered as a U.S. based employee, or as a dependent of a U.S. based employee, under a U.S. based health insurance provided through that employment.
  • Student studying in an approved exchange program.

Waiver Requirements:

  1. Coverage must be in effect as of the date of entry into the U.S.
  2. Medical benefits of at least $100,000.00 USD per accident or illness
  3. Repatriation of remains in the amount of $25,000.00 USD.
  4. Medical evacuation coverage in the amount of $50,000.00 USD.
  5. Annual deductible not to exceed $500.00 USD per illness per person.
*Amounts must be in US dollars ($)

Acquire the following required documents before clicking below to submit your waiver information:

  1. An electronic copy of the front and back of your health insurance ID card.
  2. An electronic copy of your complete insurance policy document, including exclusions and limitations and dependent coverage.

UNDERGRADUATES CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR WAIVER REQUEST ONLY IF YOU MEET THE ABOVE CRITERIA AND HAVE YOUR REQUIRED DOCUMENTS READY

GRADUATES CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR WAIVER REQUEST ONLY IF YOU MEET THE ABOVE CRITERIA AND HAVE YOUR REQUIRED DOCUMENTS READY

Be sure to check the FAQs for questions and answers around waivers.