We've compiled resources to help you understand how health care works in the U.S. and at CU.

Health Insurance Requirement

All CU students are required to have health insurance to cover the cost of medical treatment.

As an international student, it is your responsibility to have health insurance at all times while in the United States. Students entering their degree program in a fall term must purchase a policy that will meet their needs and cover them from the time of arrival in the U.S. until CU Boulder coverage starts on August 18.

For more information about the three insurance options click here.

J-1 students have specific requirements for insurance and documentation. Please read about the required insurance for J-1 visa holders here.

Immunization Requirement

The following immunizations requirements must be completed online by all new students:

  • Proof of two doses of the MMR vaccine:
    Colorado State Law requires all new students to submit proof of two doses each of measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations. This is a mandatory requirement for all college students born on or after January 1, 1957. Please check with your physician, high school, previous university, and/or military, to obtain an official signed or stamped copy of your records. Medical, religious, and personal exemptions are allowed by law; however, in the event of an outbreak, exempted persons may be subject to quarantine and exclusion from school.
  • Complete the New Student Immunization Questionnaire:
    Information and questions on meningococcal disease, the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine and Tuberculosis.

If you have any questions please call Student Health Insurance and Referrals at 303-492-5107.

List of vaccines available at Wardenburg Health Center.

Overview of Healthcare in the U.S.

In the U.S., navigating the health care system is complex and can be difficult to understand. When you seek medical care, you are responsible for paying the bill, regardless of whether or not you have insurance, and you are responsible for paying any costs that are not covered by your insurance company.

The video below teaches international students how to prepare for their arrival in the US, how the US healthcare system works and how students should seek medical care appropriately if they become sick or injured.

Please visit www.internationalstudentinsurance.com/explained/ for more information.

US Healthcare System Overview from International Student Insurance on Vimeo.

When to go to Wardenburg