Immunizations & Health Insurance
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Last Updated: Nov 13, 2025, 02:56 PM
Health Insurance
The United States does not have a social system for health insurance. Each person must be responsible for purchasing health insurance (annually). Although you may be a very healthy person, accidents do happen, and couples do have children (despite careful planning). You are legally required to carry health insurance. SIU offers health insurance for most registered students.
- SIU student health insurance information can be found at the Student Health Services website.
- The insurance fee is automatically charged to student's tuition and fees via the bursar bill.
- Most international students do not need to take any action in order for this coverage to take place. Students are automatically enrolled in the student health insurance plan.
- SIU's student health insurance does meet J1 visa requirements.
Health Insurance Waiver
If you would like to waive the student health insurance plan and you believe your plan provides comparable coverage, you will need to apply for a health insurance plan waiver. For more information, please visit the Student Health Services website.
Once approved for a health insurance plan waiver, it is your responsibility to maintain the required health insurance coverage. If you are a J-1 student sponsored by SIU and opt to waive your SIU health insurance, you will be required to submit proof of your coverage to the International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) office at the Center for International Education. For more information, please email isss@siu.edu.
Immunization
All newly enrolled students, as mandated by Illinois state law, must have an immunization form completed before the end of the first semester of attendance. The immunizations required include: diphtheria, tetanus, measles, rubella, mumps, and a TB skin test. If these immunizations have not been received in the past, or a doctor cannot verify that any or all of the shots have been given, then you must contact the SIU Health Service to schedule an appointment to receive the required immunizations. Please remember that this law is for your well-being. If you do not comply with this law, you will not be able to register the next semester, and your registration for your current classes will be canceled. For more information, contact the Immunization Office at (618) 453-3311.