At the beginning of each academic year, students can either choose to waive the Penn State Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP for Penn State) by providing documentation of a comparable insurance plan through an online form. Students who do not currently have adequate coverage on or near campus are strongly encouraged to enroll in SHIP for Penn State. This process ensures students have access to health insurance that meets their health care needs and that covers them on or near the Greater Allegheny campus. 

All international students are required to purchase the Penn State Health Insurance Plan (SHIP for Penn State) or submit proof of health insurance coverage that meets the full set of requirements.
  • All medical expenses incurred are the responsibility of the student.
  • For further assistance, students may contact University Park at 814-865-4847 option number 6
  • Information about new and current insurance requirements may be found on the Student Affairs Health and Wellness website 

Public Assistance Programs

As many students may become under-resourced during this time, there may be state and federal assistance programs that can help them. Key questions to ask to determine if assistance programs may help:

  • Do you have income or means to support yourself/your family?
  • Do you have stable housing? Access to and resources to get food? Can you pay your utility bills?
  • If you/your parents are recently unemployed, will you have health insurance?

If they have children, they may have access to special programs.