Hospital and doctor visits are very expensive in the United States. There is no national system of free health care in the United States. Before you leave your country, it is a good idea to take care of your health concerns including updating your immunizations, getting new eye glasses and at least a two month supply of any necessary medications. 

Immunization Requirements

The Higher Education College Student Immunization Act (110 ILCS 20/) requires incoming new students to document immunity to measles, rubella, mumps and tetanus/diphtheria.   

International students who have received immunization for measles, rubella, mumps and tetanus/diphtheria, should bring the necessary proof documenting immunity to these diseases.  If you have a copy of a certificate of health examination from your doctor, please bring that with you to the U.S.   

Acceptable proof can be a photocopy of immunization records from a doctor, hospital or clinic, bearing your name, birth date, types and dates for each immunization and the name/signature of the medical provider; or a photocopy of official blood test results indicating immunity. 

All new students must complete the DePaul University Certificate of Immunity form.   Please remember that all records not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation. 

Medical / Health Insurance

You must have adequate medical health insurance while in the United States. If you have an F-1 visa, this is strongly recommended. If you have a J-1 visa, you and your dependents are required by federal law to have medical insurance. In some cases, during the interview for the J-1 visa, you may have to prove your intention to purchase medical insurance.

DePaul University has a contract with an insurance carrier that sells medical insurance to DePaul students. You may sign up for the DePaul University Student Health Plan or select another insurance company of your choice. If you are covered by a company from your home country, make sure that the insurance protects you while you are in the United States. 

What is health insurance?

Health insurance is a way to insure yourself against the very expensive costs associated with illness and injury. In return for a premium (monthly fee), the insurance company agrees to pay the price of a portion of your medical expenses, minus any deductible (amount that you must first pay before the insurance pays anything).

Why is health insurance important?

The United States does not have a national health care system like many other countries. If a person does not have health insurance and needs medical assistance, s/he is responsible for paying all medical fees. The cost of medical care is very expensive and the fastest rising expense in the U.S. today. For an international student without health insurance coverage, one serious illness or injury can lead to serious financial difficulties. However, an international student who has purchased adequate health insurance will have an insurance company help pay the huge and often unexpected medical bill.

How do I choose the right insurance policy?

Most insurance companies have complicated policies that are difficult to understand. It is important to make sure that you research very carefully each insurance company that you consider. When evaluating an insurance policy do not simply look at the cost of the insurance premium. It may be tempting to purchase the least expensive policy. However, lower premium costs often mean less benefits and coverage. It is therefore very important to read your policy carefully and completely (including information in fine print).



Updated 06.2006