Health Insurance Guide for UC Berkeley International Students

For those studying at UC Berkeley on an international visa, medical coverage isn’t just recommended but also it’s required by the university. Every international student and exchange student is automatically enrolled for the school-sponsored Berkeley SHIP (Student Health Insurance Plan) unless they submit an approved waiver.

If you’re unfamiliar with how healthcare works in the U.S., having proper insurance is essential to avoid high out-of-pocket costs. This guide breaks down how UC Berkeley’s waiver process functions, what to look for in a plan, and how to select affordable coverage that still meets your needs.

What Is the UC Berkeley Insurance Waiver?

Each academic year, UC Berkeley enrolls you in the UC system SHIP unless you opt out with valid coverage. The plan costs over over $4,800 annually (and close to $8,000 for graduate students), and it kicks in automatically unless you file a waiver application.

Luckily, students are allowed to opt out of SHIP if they already have a health plan that provides equivalent protection. If approved, UC Berkeley will remove the SHIP charge from your financial account. If not, you’ll remain enrolled in SHIP for the rest of the term and be responsible for the full cost.

What Are the Requirements to Waive UC Berkeley SHIP?

To be granted a waiver, your personal insurance must meet or exceed the university’s minimum standards. Your plan must provide:

• Active coverage that starts before the semester and lasts the entire term
• In-network providers within 50 miles of UC-Berkeley campus
• Unlimited annual/lifetime in-network benefits
• Hospital services for substance abuse
• Outpatient treatment mental health and drug/alcohol conditions
• Out-of-pocket maximum of $9,200 or less
• Pre-existing condition coverage (no waiting period)
• Recreational and amateur sports coverage
• Medical evacuation and repatriation

How to Submit a UC Berkeley Waiver (Step-by-Step)

Here’s how international students can opt out of Berkeley SHIP in just a few steps:

Step 1: Enroll in a Qualifying Health Plan

Choose and purchase an insurance plan that meets Berkeley’s waiver rules. Be sure to keep your confirmation and benefit documents.

Step 2: Log into the Waiver Portal

Go to UC Berkeley’s online waiver platform through the University Health Services website.

Step 3: Upload Your Information

Complete the waiver application and upload your plan documentation. Make sure your insurance starts before the first day of classes.

Step 4: Wait for a Decision

The university will review your application. If accepted, they will remove the SHIP fee from your student billing.

Need a plan that will provide assistance when submitting your waiver? ISO Student Health Insurance has a multilingual customer service team and provides you a waiver sheet which will help you answer all relevant questions.

Important Waiver Deadline for Fall 2025

The deadline to waive SHIP for Fall 2025 is August 15, 2025. Your insurance coverage must begin no later than August 1, 2025, and last through the full academic term.

If you miss this date or don’t meet all waiver criteria, you’ll be responsible for the full SHIP premium.

SHIP vs Private Insurance: What’s Should International Students Select?

Here’s a quick comparison between UC Berkeley’s SHIP plan and private alternatives like ISO Student Health Insurance:

Why Many Berkeley Students Choose ISO

Pre-Approved Plans for Easy Waiver

ISO offers several plans that are crafted to match Berkeley’s waiver guidelines. These plans are pre-approved by the University of California president’s office and thousands of UC-Berkeley students enroll with ISO every year.

Fast Online Sign-Up

You can sign up online in under 5 minutes and no paperwork or waiting needed. You’ll receive your ID card and confirmation letter instantly. ISO also sends you a pre-filled waiver sheet form to help you submit your waiver accurately.

Big Savings

UC Berkeley’s SHIP plan is over $4,800 per year. ISO plans start at just $79/month, giving students significant savings.

Student-Oriented Benefits

ISO plans include care for doctor visits, emergency treatment, prescriptions, mental health, labs, and more. All with low deductibles and no co-pays at student clinics.

Nationwide PPO Network

With ISO, you’ll have access to the Aetna PPO network, including providers such as Alta Bates Summit Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center. You will also have in-network benefits at the Tang Center.

Support in Your Language

ISO’s service team includes former international students and offers support in multiple languages — available by phone, WhatsApp, WeChat, and more.

Ready to Enroll?

You can sign up and receive your documentation in minutes. Explore plans and get started here: https://www.isoa.org/schools/university-of-california-berkeley