Dear International Students,
Earlier today, the university shared the Student Health Insurance Plan update, copied below. We received feedback from our international students over the past two months. We want to address your concerns and reiterate resources for additional support.
Responding to a Call for More Comprehensive Care
Access to a comprehensive student health plan was a direct need raised by the DePaul student community—particularly graduate, international and out-of-state students.
Students brought this request to university leadership two years ago, and students served on an advisory committee to help develop the plan. This advisory committee was made up of staff, faculty and students from across the university, who determined that our new approach to health insurance will best benefit our entire student body, including international students, by fulfilling an unmet need for comprehensive, quality health insurance.
DePaul then negotiated extensively with insurance brokers and took great care and research to ensure all students have access to comprehensive care at the best possible price. The plan goes well beyond addressing injuries and emergencies. It covers physical and behavioral health services, preventative care, vaccinations and prescription drugs.
What the Waiver Period Means to You
Claims that international students will have no other health insurance options are false. International students may opt out of the new Student Health Insurance Plan with proof of active, adequate insurance coverage during the waiver period, which will take place May 15 through September 20. In April, a dedicated website for student health insurance will be launched with additional information on the type of plans that will meet the requirements for a waiver.
Ongoing Information and Communication
Your Student Affairs team continues working closely with International Student & Scholar Services to address your areas of concern. Watch for health insurance information sessions in April and May.
As we take this step to ensure all DePaul students have a successful and healthy academic career, your feedback is important to us. Please continue to reach out via
studentinsurance@depaul.edu at any time.
Take care,
Eugene L. Zdziarski, II, PhD
Vice President for Student Affairs
GianMario Besana, PhD
Associate Provost, Global Engagement and Online Learning