UCSD Waiver Requirements for International Students

If you’re planning to study at the University of California San Diego (UCSD), choosing the right health insurance is an essential part of getting ready for your time in the U.S.

UCSD automatically enrolls all registered students, including international students, in the UC SHIP (Student Health Insurance Plan) each term. For the 2025–26 academic year, UC SHIP costs approximately $2,236 per quarter (around $6,708 per year).

This cost can feel steep, especially for international students - but UCSD does allow students to waive UC SHIP if you have a qualifying private plan that meets UC standards. Here’s what you need to know about UCSD’s insurance requirements, how to submit your waiver, and why planning early helps.

UCSD Waiver Requirements for International Students

Before shopping for alternative insurance, it’s important to understand UCSD’s waiver rules. UCSD has strict requirements to make sure your private plan provides adequate coverage while you’re in California.

Your plan must meet the following requirements:

• No maximum benefit limits per medical or mental health/substance use condition
• Must cover treatment related to suicide attempts or suicidal thoughts
• Must include coverage for injuries from recreational activities and amateur sports
• No exclusions or waiting periods for pre-existing conditions; any waiting period must already be met
• No lifetime benefit maximums
• Master policy must be in English and list benefits in U.S. dollars
• U.S.-based claims office with a valid address and phone number
• At least $50,000/year for emergency medical evacuation
• At least $25,000 for repatriation of remains

Many travel insurance or non U.S. plans won’t qualify - so it’s important to choose carefully.

Want plan options you can look into? Check out ; ISO’s UCSD student plans, which are pre-approved by University of California president's office

What are the steps to submit my UCSD waiver?

1. Purchase your alternative insurance

Make sure your plan meets UCSD’s waiver requirements before starting your waiver.

2. Log in to TritonLink

Use your student credentials to sign into the UCSD TritonLink portal.

3. Go to the Health Fee Waiver tool

Find the “Health Fee Waiver” option under the “Financial Tools” or “Student Health” sections.

4. Complete the waiver application

Enter your insurance information, upload your proof of coverage, and electronically sign the form.

5. Submit by the deadline

Review your details carefully before submitting. Once submitted, you’ll see a confirmation page.

6. Check your UCSD email for updates

You’ll receive an email letting you know if your waiver was approved or denied. If denied, instructions for appeal will be included.

UCSD Waiver Deadlines for 2025–26

The official waiver deadline for the UCSD Fall 2025 quarter is September 14th, 2025 – though a late waiver will be accepted through September 20th, 2025 (subject to a $50 late waiver fee).

You must show coverage from at least September 22nd 2025 – January 1st, 2026 to get your Fall waiver approved. However it is recommended to enroll for as long as you know you’ll need coverage for.

Should I keep UC SHIP or choose private insurance?

Plan Comparison	UC SHIP	Private Insurance (like ISO)
Accepted by UC system	Yes	Yes
In-network California Providers	Yes	Yes (Aetna PPO network)
Mental health coverage	Yes	Yes
Pre-existing conditions	Covered	Covered
Wellness/preventive care	Covered	Covered
Multilingual customer service	No	Yes
Flexible plan options	No	Yes
Cost	~$6,708	As low as $1,192/year

Why do UCSD International Students Choose ISO?

Meets UC waiver criteria

ISO’s plans are pre designed to satisfy UCSD requirements, so your waiver is likely to be approved.

Flexible coverage options

Choose Fall only, Fall/Spring, or full year - perfect for graduation timing or OPT.

Fast, online enrollment

Sign up in minutes and instantly receive proof of insurance for your waiver.

Affordable with strong benefits

Lower annual cost while covering what matters: doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, mental health, and medical evacuation.

Aetna PPO network

Access UCSD Student Health Services, Scripps, and other top hospitals in San Diego.

Multilingual support

Friendly service in your language to help with enrollment, waiver questions, and claims.

Ready to Enroll?

Save up to $5,000+ with ISO this school year. Find plan options at https://www.isoa.org/schools/university-of-california-san-diego