Welcome, International Students!
Whether you are attending the University of Montana on an F-1 or J-1 visa, maintaining health insurance coverage during your time in the United States is important for both your health and your academic success.
All on-campus students are required by the Montana University System to have active health insurance.
Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP)
In Griz Portal, you have the option to enroll in UM’s Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP), AcademicBlue.
To do so, you click 'Purchase Insurance' when making your health insurance selection.
SHIP is designed specifically for students and provides coverage for a variety of healthcare needs, including:
- Preventive and routine medical care
- Illness and injury treatment
- Emergency and hospital services
- Mental health services
- Prescription medications
- Access to healthcare providers throughout the United States
Many international students choose SHIP because it offers convenient access to care both on campus and off campus, along with coverage that meets the needs of students studying in the U.S. If you enroll in SHIP, your insurance requirements are automatically satisfied.
Alternative Insurance Options
If you decide not to enroll in SHIP, you must still maintain active health insurance coverage through a private or government-approved insurance plan.
UM also recognizes plans available through International Student Insurance (ISI), which offers insurance options designed specifically for international students studying in the United States.
Students are encouraged to carefully review any private insurance plan to ensure it provides appropriate medical coverage while living and studying abroad.
Learn more about ISI Insurance Plans:
Visa-Specific Insurance Requirements
F-1 Visa Students
F-1 students are required to maintain health insurance coverage while attending UM. However, UM does not require a specific insurance provider or coverage level.
Insurance verification for F-1 students is managed through the Global Engagement Office rather than the Student Insurance Office.
J-1 Visa Students
J-1 students are required by U.S. federal regulations to maintain health insurance coverage that meets specific minimum requirements during their exchange program.
The Global Engagement Office is responsible for verifying that your insurance coverage meets J-1 visa requirements.
Additional Resources
Need to Change Your Insurance Selection?
Visit the Change Student Insurance Selection page to access the form.
Changes must be submitted before the 15th class day of the semester, no exceptions after that date.
Questions?
Contact the Global Engagement Office for more information: ISS@mso.umt.edu or global.engagement@umontana.edu.