Student Health Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions

Jump to: Student Eligibility & Enrollment | Dependent Eligibility | Coverage & Claims | Account Details & ID Cards | Healthcare & Emergency Assistance While Traveling | Waiving Coverage

Student Eligibility & Enrollment

Who is eligible for IU student health insurance?

International Student Plan: Participation in this plan is mandatory for Indiana University International Students, Intensive English Program Students (IEP & PIE), and Visiting Scholars.

Professional Student Plan:Participation in this plan is mandatory for IU School of Medicine (IUSM), IU School of Dentistry (IUSD), IU School of Health and Human Sciences (SHHS), IU School of Optometry (IUSO), and Speech, Language, and Hearing Science students who are currently taking classes.

The legal spouse and unmarried children under age 26 of the above listed individuals are also eligible for coverage, but the student is responsible for enrolling them in a timely manner and for paying the full cost of their premiums.

How do I enroll in IU student health insurance?

Students who are eligible for coverage are automatically enrolled in the appropriate plan and notified at the beginning of each semester. International Scholars will be contacted with information on how to enroll when arriving on campus.

Indiana University does not currently offer a voluntary health insurance plan for student enrollment. If you are not eligible for one of IU’s mandatory plans, you may want to view the question and answer to, “If I’m not eligible for IU student health insurance, are there other options?”

Am I eligible for the IU International Student Plan if I am a resident of another country, but have U.S. citizenship?

No. U.S. citizens are not eligible for the IU International Student Plan. Even if you spend most of your time in another country, you are not eligible because you have U.S. citizenship.

Is there a health insurance plan for students to enroll in voluntarily?

No. Indiana University does not offer a student insurance plan that allows voluntary enrollment, and not all IU students are required to have coverage.

The university does offer student health insurance for certain groups of students that are required to have coverage, including international students and scholars, as well as graduate students in the School of Medicine, School of Dentistry, School of Optometry, and Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences. Additionally, graduate students with an eligible student academic appointment or fellowship award may also be eligible for coverage. Students who are required to have coverage are automatically enrolled in the appropriate plan and are notified about their coverage at the beginning of each semester of enrollment at IU.

I do not qualify for IU student health insurance. Can you recommend another plan for students?

IU cannot recommend other health plans, but we do try to provide information we think might be helpful. See the next question, “If I’m not eligible for an IU health insurance plan, are there other options?”

If I’m not eligible for IU student health insurance, are there other options?

If you’re not eligible for IU student health insurance, but need to find coverage, here are a few options to consider:

  1. You may be able to enroll in a plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace, created under the Affordable Care Act. Visit HealthCare.gov to review your options.
  2. Some states offer coverage for children beyond the age of 26. Students from outside Indiana should verify the age limits on their parent’s plans in their home state to see if they are eligible to continue coverage beyond their 26th birthday. For example, New Jersey allows coverage for certain dependents until age 31.
  3. You or your family members may qualify for state subsidized coverage, such as:
  4. You may be able to continue your medical coverage under COBRA if you are covered by a family member and lose coverage because you are no longer eligible. Contact your current health insurance provider to see if that is an option.
  5. You can purchase private health insurance coverage directly from an insurance company or with the help of an agent or broker. A personal insurance agent may be licensed to sell health insurance and many offer discounts for those that also have auto, renters, or other coverage from the same company. However, tax credits for coverage are only available if you enroll through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

Can I drop my IU student health insurance coverage mid-term?

International Student Plan: No, coverage cannot be dropped mid-term. Student premiums are negotiated and determined based on a full semester. That said, if you are a graduating student or traveling during the term, you still have full access to your plan coverage through the end of the coverage period, whether you are in or out of the country.

Professional Student Plan: No, coverage cannot be dropped mid-term. However, if you have existing health insurance coverage that meets certain criteria you may be eligible to waive enrollment in the IU plan at the beginning of the next semester, prior to the deadline date. Waiver criteria and deadline dates are emailed to students prior to the start of each term and can be found on our website.

I will be turning age 26 in the middle of the school year. Am I required to be on the IU plan for the full year, or am I able to waive now and enroll when I lose my other coverage?

Professional Student Plan: Students who are eligible for the Professional Student Plan who have comparable health coverage can waive enrollment for the IU plan at the beginning of the academic year (up until the waiver deadline). When you lose your other coverage due to turning age 26, you can contact and we will walk you through the process of enrolling in the Professional Student Plan without a gap in coverage.

I was enrolled on the International Student Health Plan for the fall semester, but just found out I am not enrolled for the spring. Who do I contact?

Eligibility and enrollment questions related to the International Student Health Plan should be directed to the international office on your campus. See campus contact information below.

For IUB international students that are also eligible for the Student Academic Appointee (SAA) Plan or Fellowship Recipient Plan, the IUB Office of International Services (OIS) requires you to contact their office to continue enrollment on the International Student Health Plan for the spring term. Even if you have an approved waiver on file for either the SAA or Fellowship plan, you still need contact their office to continue enrollment on the International Student Plan.

Note: Your waiver for the SAA or Fellowship Plan is good for the entire academic year, therefore you do not need to submit another one. You just need to notify OIS of your intention to stay on the International Student Plan.

Office of International Services
Bloomington (OIS)
Ferguson International Center
330 N. Eagleson Avenue
Bloomington, IN 47405
Phone: 812-855-9086
Fax: 812-855-4418
General email:

Office of International Affairs
Indianapolis (OIA)
902 W. New York St.
Education and Social Work building, Rm. 2126,
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Phone: 317-274-7000
Email:

Dependent Eligibility & Enrollment

Which dependents are eligible for IU student health plan coverage?

The legal spouse and unmarried children under age 26 of qualified students are eligible for coverage under the IU student health insurance plans.

How do I add my dependent(s) to my plan?

Eligible students have the option to insure their spouse and unmarried children under age 26 for an additional cost. Coverage is only available to dependents if and when the eligible student is insured under the plan. Dependents must be enrolled by the deadlines posted on the student insurance website.

Select your plan from the options below for step-by-step instructions to enroll your dependents.

International Student Plan
  1. Visit the UHP Website.
  2. Select "International Students & Visiting Scholars”.
  3. Select "International Dependent Enrollment" from the left-hand menu.
  4. Select the "All International Qualifying Event Enrollment" from the drop-down list.
  5. Enter the requested information and provide a copy of any required documentation.
Professional Student Plan
  • Visit the UHP Website.
  • Select “Professional Students”.
  • Select "Dependent Enrollment Form" from the left-hand menu, then select your school or department from the list.
  • Enter the requested information and provide a copy of any required documentation.

If you have questions or issues with the enrollment process, contact UHP directly at 833-251-1717.

Can I enroll dependents on my plan after the enrollment deadline?

No, dependents must be enrolled by the semester/term deadline posted on the student insurance website. You can only enroll dependents outside of this time period if there has been a significant life change known as an IRS-qualifying life event. Examples of qualifying life events include (but aren’t limited to):

  • Marriage or divorce
  • Birth
  • Loss of other coverage
  • Arrival to the United States

You have 30 days from the date of the qualifying event to make changes to your plan. As long as your enrollment is submitted within this 30-day period, your dependent’s coverage will be backdated and begin on the date of the event. Enrollments submitted more than 30 days after the qualifying event will not be accepted, and you will have to wait until the next coverage period to enroll them.

Visit the UHP Website for additional details or to enroll your dependent(s).

How do I make premium payments for my dependents?

Dependent premiums cannot be charged to your bursar account. When you enroll them you will be given the option to pay their premium in full or in monthly installments.

Coverage & Claims

How do I file a medical or prescription claim?

In most situations, your provider will file the claim for you. If this does not happen, you can file claims yourself using the claim forms below. These forms provide full instructions to file and receive reimbursement.

How do I view my claims online?

You can view all of your claims online by logging in to Anthem.com or the Sydney Health app. If you don’t have an account, you can register for one using your 10-digit IU student ID number.

How do I find out if a prescription is covered by my plan?

There are a few ways to check if a prescription is covered under the plan:

  • You can view the Select Drug List (also known as a formulary).
  • You can call Anthem Member Services at (844) 412-0752.
  • You can view your past prescription claims online by logging in to Anthem.com or the Sydney Health app. If you don’t have an account, you can register for one using your 10-digit IU student ID number.

What is the Cost Relief Drug Program?

The Cost Relief Drug Program assists members with sharing the cost of eligible medications.

Which medications are eligible for the Cost Relief Drug Program?

Only certain medications on the specialty drug list are eligible. Follow the link below to see a list of eligible medications. Plan members on the International and Professional Student Insurance Plans can call 877-638-4008 to speak with a Cost Relief representative to answer questions and enroll in the program. Representatives are available Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

ABS Master Cost Relief Drug List

What services related to a pregnancy are covered by the plan?

Maternity services are covered as any other medical condition and are subject to the same deductibles, coinsurance/copays, and out-of-pocket maximums. Review the medical plan summary and booklet for your plan for details.

Can I add my spouse to my plan if they become pregnant?

No. Pregnancy is not considered an IRS-qualifying life event that would allow you to add them to your plan during the year.

Dependents must be enrolled by the semester/term deadline posted on the student insurance website. You can only enroll dependents outside of this time period if there has been a significant life change known as an IRS-qualifying life event, such as birth, loss of other coverage, or arrival to the U.S.

Do the student health insurance plans cover breast pumps?

Yes, the IU student health plans cover breast pumps.

Pumps are limited to one per pregnancy and require a prescription from a physician, such as your OB provider. Unfortunately, pediatricians will not write prescriptions for breast pumps, so we encourage you to talk to your OB ahead of delivery for the prescription. Sometimes the OB will not provide one until the baby is born, but it is a good idea to ask them ahead of time how to obtain one from their office.

Breast pumps are considered durable medical equipment, or DME, and need to be purchased through an in-network DME provider with Anthem. This can be the hospital, a local brick and mortar provider, or an approved online provider. Each may offer different pumps, so if you are looking for a specific brand or style, we suggest researching each provider to see what they stock.

Find a Provider
You can find local DME providers using Anthem’s online “Find Care” tool by logging in to Anthem.com or the Sydney Health app. Alternatively, you can order through an online provider that is part of Anthem’s network.

As of this writing, in-network online DME providers include:  

Even if the provider is listed above, be sure to double check their network status prior to placing your order.

Account Details & ID Cards

When will my Anthem ID card arrive in the mail?

Anthem does not mail printed ID cards for the IU student health plans unless one is requested.

For 24/7 access to your digital ID card, or to request a printed copy be mailed to you, log in to Anthem.com or the Sydney Health app. Requests for a printed card can also be made by calling Anthem at 844-412-0752.

Prior to requesting a printed card, please make sure to verify your contact details, specifically your address, on file with Anthem. If you need to update this information, contact .

What should I do if I lose my Anthem ID card?

For 24/7 access to your digital ID card, or to request a printed copy be mailed to you, log in to Anthem.com or the Sydney Health app. If you don’t have an account, you can register for one using your 10-digit IU student ID number. Requests for a printed card can also be made by calling Anthem at 844-412-0752.

Prior to requesting a printed card, please make sure to verify your contact details, specifically your address, on file with Anthem. If you need to update this information, contact .

How do I access my Anthem account information online?

You can access your account information and plan details by logging in to Anthem.com or the Sydney Health app. If you don’t have an account, you can register for one using your 10-digit IU student ID number.

What is the Sydney Health app and why should I use it?

Anthem’s free mobile app, Sydney Health, puts personalized healthcare in your hands. It gives you one convenient place to keep track of your health, and it’s personalized just for you.

The free app makes it easy for you to:

  • View, download, email, or fax your Anthem ID card
  • See all your health coverage benefits
  • Find a doctor and check your costs
  • View your claims
  • Check your health records
  • Visit with a doctor 24/7
  • Access wellness resources
  • Get alerts, reminders and tips
  • Chat to find answers to your questions

If you already have an Anthem.com username and password, you can use those credentials to log in to Sydney Health. If not, you can register using your 10-digit IU student ID number.

Learn more and download the app.

I’m unable to log in to Anthem.com or the Sydney Health app, but I know I’m enrolled on the plan. How do I recover my account?

If you’re having issues logging into your Anthem account, call the Anthem Help Desk at (866) 755-2680, Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. ET. They can assist you with resetting your login.

If Anthem is unable to recover your account, contact or (812) 856-4650 for assistance.

I received a letter from Anthem requesting my Social Security Number (SSN), but I don’t have one. What should I do?

You can disregard these notices if you do not have an SSN or do not wish to put one on file with Anthem.

The IRS requires Anthem to request the SSN of any member who does not have one on file. They are required to make multiple requests until they receive the SSN from the member, or up to a maximum of 3 times, whichever comes first.

Unfortunately, it is not an option to suppress these letters. After 3 letters, you will no longer receive follow-ups unless there is a break in your coverage, and you re-enroll. This would trigger a new set of request letters.

Healthcare & Emergency Assistance While Travelling

What should I do if I need medical or dental care while traveling?

Learn how to find medical, vision, prescription, or dental care while traveling within the United States or internationally by visiting the Student Travel Coverage page.

Who do I call if I need emergency medical care outside the U.S.?

If you need emergency assistance when you’re 100 miles or more from home, call the local equivalent of ‘911’ or go to the nearest hospital.

As a participant in an IU student health plan, you have access to emergency support services and benefits through Academic Emergency Services (AES) when you are traveling over 100 miles from home or outside your home country. Services available to you include:

  • Emergency Medical Evacuation, Repatriation and Emergency Family Assistance Services
  • Medical, Travel, Safety, and Legal Assistance
  • Security/Political and Natural Disaster Evacuation Coverage
  • Download AES flyer and wallet card

Academic Emergency Services are available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

  • Within the U.S. or Canada: 855-873-3555
  • Outside the U.S. or Canada: +1-610-263-4660

How do I find a qualified doctor or medical provider outside the U.S.?

Before Traveling
Download the BCBS Global Core mobile app. You can use the app to search for providers, translate medical terms and phrases, file international claims, and more.

Non-Emergency Care

  • If you’re traveling abroad and need non-emergency medical care, call the BCBS Global Core Service Center 24/7 at +1-804-673-1177 before getting care. They can help you set up a doctor’s visit or hospital stay. 
  • Alternatively, you can call Academic Emergency Services at +1-610-263-4660. They can direct you to appropriate medical resources, including referrals to vetted providers and hospitals. 

Resources:

Do I need to call Academic Emergency Services (AES) before I leave for my trip?

You are not required to call, but if you will be traveling for more than one semester, we recommend that you contact Academic Emergency Services to receive valuable pre-trip and extended travel information. Also, remember to take your Academic Emergency Services wallet card with you and call if you need medical advice or assistance.

What if the foreign hospital refuses to take my insurance and requires me to pay in full?

Many international providers require payment in full at the time of service. In this situation you will need to pay the provider out-of-pocket, then file a claim afterwards with Anthem. If you need to do this, make sure you get an itemized receipt from the provider that lists all the services you received and the charges for each. If you do not have the funds to pay, AES can help you make financial arrangements with the provider. The source of the funds is your responsibility.

Will Academic Emergency Services (AES) transport a family member or friend to be at my side?

Yes. If you are traveling alone and it seems likely that you will be hospitalized for more than three days, AES will transport a family member or friend to your location.

I don’t travel internationally. How can Academic Emergency Services (AES) benefit me?

Academic Emergency Services will help you with any medical situation if you are 100 miles or more from your campus address—this can mean a weekend trip or an overseas vacation. If you become ill or have an accident while traveling, call AES 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for assistance and advice.

Waiving Coverage (Professional Student Plan)

Can I waive the student health plan if I have an out of state HMO and/or Medicaid plan?

Unfortunately, most out of state HMO/Medicaid plans do not meet Indiana University’s comparable coverage requirements. This is because these plans do not provide non-emergency coverage outside of that state’s borders. If your HMO plan has a rider (an insurance policy provision that adds additional coverage to meet the needs of the policyholder) that provides coverage for providers near your IU campus, you can submit proof of coverage for review along with the other documentation requirements.

How do I submit a waiver for the Spring semester?

Waivers for the spring semester must be submitted via email prior to the waiver deadline on the student insurance website.

To submit a waiver for the spring semester, complete the following before the waiver deadline:

  1. Verify that your plan meets the minimum essential requirements listed on the student insurance website.
  2. Contact to request a waiver form for the spring semester.
  3. Complete and return the form to along with copies of your plan’s summary of benefits, your insurance card, and documentation of current coverage.

We will evaluate the plan and let you know if it can be accepted for a waiver. If your waiver is approved, it will be effective for the spring semester only. A new waiver must be requested each fall at the start of the new academic year.

How do I submit a waiver for the Fall semester?

Waivers for the fall semester can be submitted online prior to the waiver deadline. Have your current health insurance ID card and your IU student ID on hand, then follow these instructions.

  1. Go to the UHP Professional Student Insurance Plan website.
  2. On the left-hand side of the page, select Waiver Form then choose your school or department.
  3. Enter your date of birth (MM/DD/YYYY) and your 10-digit IU student ID number.
  4. Complete the form and enter your insurance information.

If your waiver is approved it will be effective for one academic year only. A new waiver must be completed each fall at the start of the new academic year. If you’re unable to access the waiver, it may be closed or you may not be currently eligible to complete the waiver.

I submitted a waiver, but the health insurance premiums are still on my account. When will they be waived?

You should receive an email update on the status of your waiver within 3 business days of submission. If approved, it can take up to 10 business days to post to your bursar account. If the charge has not been removed after that time period, please email us at .