Health Insurance

The cost of medical services in Canada is very high for those who do not have health insurance. Without proper coverage, you could be denied medical services or you could pay thousands of dollars each day for a hospital stay. As a result, health insurance is an important investment. Having both basic and extended health insurance provides you with comprehensive coverage and ensures that ill health will not cause you financial difficulties or compromise your academic progress.

Basic health insurance

Basic health insurance is required for all students studying in BC and covers most physician and hospital services.

I am staying in BC for more than six months: You will need to enrol in the BC Medical Services Plan (MSP) within the first 10 days of your arrival in BC. Instructions, application forms and information about premiums are available on the BC Medical Services Plan website.

After you've applied, there is a waiting period of approximately three months before your coverage begins. During this period you will need to arrange for coverage through an alternate insurance provider. We recommend that you make arrangements before you leave home.

AON is a company that UVic has selected to provide basic health insurance for new international students during the waiting period. Application forms are available on the AON Medical Insurance Program website.

I am staying in BC for less than six months: You will not be eligible for the BC Medical Services Plan. We recommended that you make arrangements for basic health insurance before you leave home.

I am already covered by BC MSP: Check the expiry date on your Care Card. If necessary, send a copy of your new study permit to BC MSP so they can continue your coverage and be sure to provide your current mailing address. You will receive a new Care Card in approximately six weeks.

Students with families: It is essential that your family members also obtain adequate basic health insurance. You can add them to your plans for an additional cost.

TIP: UVic operates an on-campus health centre with services available to international students who have health insurance. Visit the Health Services website for more information.

Extended health insurance

Extended health insurance covers a portion of vision and dental care, prescription drugs and paramedical services from specialists such as a chiropractor, a naturopath or a psychologist.

The University of Victoria Students’ Society (UVSS) and the Graduate Students’ Society (GSS) provide extended health insurance for most students. If you are eligible for either plan, you will be automatically enrolled and the charge will appear on your UVic fee statement. The coverage offered by these plans does not replace basic health insurance.

Students who already have equivalent extended health or dental insurance can opt out of the UVSS or the GSS health and dental plan during the first month of their first term at UVic. For more information, visit the UVSS Health and Dental Plan webpage or the GSS Health and Dental Plan webpage.

Students with families: You can enrol your family members in the UVSS or the GSS health and dental plan for an additional cost. Visit the Info Booth in the Student Union Building or the General Office in the Grad Centre for details.

Exchange students: Exchange students are not eligible for the UVSS or the GSS extended health and dental plan. Please contact your UVic exchange advisor for more information.