Ensuring comprehensive health insurance coverage is a crucial aspect of student well-being, particularly at an institution like the University of Pennsylvania. The Penn Student Insurance Plan (PSIP), administered by Aetna Student Health, meets Penn’s insurance requirements and offers substantial medical coverage. However, for many students—especially first-generation, low-income (FGLI) students—navigating health insurance policies can be a significant challenge.
All full-time, dissertation-status, and exchange students attending Penn for a semester or longer are required to carry comprehensive health insurance. Students can either:
Enroll in PSIP, or
Waive PSIP by providing proof of equivalent coverage.
📅 Important Date: The Fall 2024 PSIP enrollment portal opens on July 1, 2024.
🔹 Students opting for PSIP must also pay a clinical fee for Student Health and Counseling (SHC) to serve as their primary care provider.
Graduate & Professional Students: The cost of health insurance is included in the cost-of-attendance budget, impacting financial aid and student loans.
PhD Students: Eligible for grants toward insurance costs.
Undergraduates: May access the Federal Direct Loan Program and Parent Loan Program (PLUS). Additional grant assistance may be available based on financial need.
📌 Tip: Students should consult their financial aid office for detailed information on coverage and assistance.
To waive PSIP, students must have a health insurance plan that:
✅ Is authorized to operate in the U.S.
✅ Covers pre-existing conditions.
✅ Provides a minimum $2,000,000 annual benefit.
✅ Offers inpatient & outpatient medical and mental health care in Philadelphia (beyond emergency services).
📍 Medicaid Limitations: Many low-income students rely on Medicaid, which is state-specific and non-transferable between states. As a result, out-of-state Medicaid students do not qualify for a waiver and must enroll in PSIP—costing over $4,000 per academic year.
For students who do not receive full financial aid, this presents a significant financial burden. While some students negotiate partial subsidies, many struggle to balance health insurance costs with tuition, rent, and daily living expenses.
International students may select private health insurance plans that meet Penn’s waiver requirements, such as:
PSI Plans: Emerald, Platinum, and Presidential
ISO Plans for UPenn
📌 Note: Penn does not sponsor these plans—they are merely recommended options.
🏥 Student Health & Counseling (SHC): Free primary care and mental health services for students.
📍 Appointments:
Scheduled via MyChart.
Referrals may be directed to Penn Medicine, an independent entity.
🚨 On-Campus: Call PennComm at 215-573-3333.
🚑 Off-Campus: Dial 911 or visit:
Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (34th & Spruce)
Beyond tuition and health insurance, students face additional financial burdens, including:
📚 Textbooks & Course Materials: Previously subsidized by the university, but this initiative was discontinued—adding financial strain.
📈 Tuition Increases: 3.9% increase for the 2024-25 academic year, raising tuition to $87,860.
🏠 Housing Costs: Rent continues to rise, further straining student finances.
While programs like Penn First Plus offer some assistance, many FGLI students struggle with systemic financial barriers that remain unaddressed.
✔ Know Your Options – Stay informed about insurance deadlines and financial aid opportunities.
✔ Plan Ahead – If Medicaid is not accepted, research alternative plans in advance.
✔ Seek Support – Utilize Penn First Plus, financial aid offices, and student advocacy groups.
✔ Budget Wisely – Account for co-pays, prescriptions, and out-of-pocket medical expenses.
| Resource | Details |
|---|---|
| PSIP Enrollment | Opens July 1, 2024 |
| Financial Aid Office | Assistance based on financial need |
| PhD Grants | Available for eligible doctoral students |
| International Student Insurance | PSI (Emerald, Platinum, Presidential), ISO Plans |
| Student Health & Counseling | 24/7 access to primary care & mental health services |
| Emergency Contacts | On-campus: 215-573-3333 | Off-campus: 911 |
| Penn First Plus | Support for first-gen & low-income students |
While Penn provides financial aid and health insurance support, challenges persist—especially for low-income and FGLI students. Rising education and living costs add to financial stress, making it essential for Penn to strengthen its support systems.
🔍 For more details on PSIP, visit the Penn website or the Student Health and Counseling Office.