The University of Alabama provides a subsidized student health plan through BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama, offering single or single and eligible dependents coverage. This plan takes advantage of the University’s own on-campus full-service medical centers. For any service, diagnostics, or treatments not available in the University medical centers the plan covers referrals to major healthcare providers in the Tuscaloosa and Birmingham areas.
If you have questions please contact BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama or view their FAQ. You may also contact the UA Student Health Insurance Office or call 1-205-348-4086.
What are the periods of coverage and how much does it cost for the student and dependents?
| Rates | Fall 08/01/24 to 12/31/24 | Spring/Summer 01/01/25 to 07/31/25 | Summer 06/01/25 to 07/31/25 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student | $970.02 | $1,344.08 | $386.74 |
| Spouse | $970.02 | $1,344.08 | $386.74 |
| One Child | $970.02 | $1,344.08 | $386.74 |
| Two or More Children | $1,940.04 | $2,688.16 | $773.48 |
Eligible dependents are the student’s legal spouse and dependent children under 26 years of age. Rates for the 2025-2026 academic year will be available June 2025.
What about graduate assistants and fellows?
If you are on a graduate assistantship or fellowship which includes a health insurance benefit this is the plan that UA will purchase for you (student coverage only). During the registration period you will receive information about the process for accepting your health insurance benefit. Please see the Fellowship FAQ and Assistantship FAQ for more information
How do I purchase health insurance?
If you are not receiving the insurance as a benefit with an assistantship or fellowship and you wish to purchase the plan for yourself or dependents, please visit the BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama page.
When do I purchase health insurance?
You can only register and pay for the health insurance during specific open enrollment periods as follows:
| Health Insurance Coverage | Enrollment Period |
|---|---|
| Fall | July 30, 2024 thru September 11, 2024 |
| Spring/Summer | December 19, 2024 thru January 31, 2025 |
| Summer | May 1, 2025 thru June 9, 2025 |
Dates for 2025-2026 will be published around June 2025.
I am an international student. Do I have to purchase UA health insurance?
Unless you provide proof that you already have health insurance coverage equal in coverage to UA’s and obtain a waiver, you will be automatically enrolled in the BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama Healthcare plan and charged the appropriate premium through your student account. See the section above to see if health insurance may be included as a benefit with a graduate assistantships or fellowship.
Who is eligible?
Graduate students enrolled in an on-campus program and taking at least 3 hours are eligible.
Eligible students may also insure their Dependents. Eligible Dependents are the student’s legal spouse and dependent children under 26 years of age.
Who is NOT eligible?
Students enrolled in a distance program are ineligible.
How do I get my health insurance card?
Your digital ID card is available at the BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama page.
Do I have to use the University’s Student Health Center (SHC)?
You do not have to use the SHC.
Why should I consider using the University’s Student Health Center (SHC)?
The SHC offers staff and doctors who work with students and and are familiar with their challenges. The SHC is located on campus and within easy reach of of providers of other medical services such as DCH Regional Medical Center.
The deductible will be waived and benefits will be paid at 100% for Covered Medical Expenses incurred when treatment is rendered at the SHC (students only) or University Medical Center (UMC) (students or insured dependents). The UMC also provides services at a lower cost than many other providers.
What other services are available from BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama?
Access claims status, ID Cards, network providers, correspondence and coverage account information, and much more by logging in to your account.
What if I just need medical advice?
Starting on the effective date of your policy, you have 24/7 access to medical advice through HealthiestYou. You may also call the toll-free number listed on the front of your medical ID card. This service is especially helpful for minor illnesses, such as allergies, sore throat, earache, pink eye, etc. Based on the condition being treated, the doctor can also prescribe certain medications, saving you a trip to the doctor’s office. Every call with a HealthiestYou doctor is covered 100% during your policy period. This service is meant to complement the Student Health Center. If possible, we encourage you to visit your SHC first before using this service.
(*If you are insured under the UA student plan and you call prior to the plan effective date, you will be charged a $40 service fee.)
Does this health insurance satisfy the Affordable HealthCare Act provisions?
This plan satisfies the provisions of all federal requirements.
If I am leaving UA can I stay on UA student health insurance?
When your coverage under this student plan ends and you have been continuously insured under the school’s regular policy for at least one semester, you have an option to continue coverage for a period of not more than 90 days under the policy which is in effect at that time. This is a great option when a student graduates and needs coverage until he or she secures new personal health insurance, and can prevent any gaps in insurance coverage.
Applications must be made and premiums paid directly to BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama within 14 days after the expiration date of your student coverage.
What other responsibilities do I have under this health insurance plan?
You must read the plan details available at the BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama page. This provides specific information about benefits and exclusions. Their brochure can be also be downloaded from the UA Student Health Center.
Where do I go for other questions?