Enroll or Waive Coverage
All eligible CU Anschutz students are automatically enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) unless an approved waiver is submitted by the published deadline. Whether you're enrolling in SHIP for the first time or already have comparable health insurance, this page will help you understand your options.
SHIP Eligibility
The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus requires all students enrolled in one or more hours in a degree-seeking or a financial aid-eligible certificate program are required to have health insurance. Therefore, all eligible students are automatically enrolled in and billed for the Student Health Insurance Plan. If you have a comparable insurance, you may waive the Student Health Insurance Plan.
Waiver Requirements
Annual Waiver Reminder
The Fall waiver is your annual SHIP waiver.
If your Fall waiver is approved, it remains valid for the entire academic year (August 1 – July 31). You do not need to submit another waiver for the Spring or Summer semesters during that academic year once your Fall waiver is approved.
New Spring or Summer Students
If you begin your program during the Spring or Summer semester, you'll need to submit a waiver for your first semester of enrollment. You'll then submit a new waiver during the next Fall waiver period for the upcoming academic year.
Special Enrollment Circumstances
Most students will either remain enrolled in SHIP or submit a waiver during the annual enrollment period. However, certain life events or changes to your student status may affect your eligibility or enrollment options. Select the situation below that best applies to you to learn more.
Going on a Leave of Absence?
Students on an approved leave of absence (LOA) may remain enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Plan for up to two consecutive semesters via a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).
Students who elect to continue SHIP coverage while on an approved LOA are responsible for paying the applicable SHIP premium, which will be billed to their student account through the Bursar's Office.
Graduating soon?
If you're enrolled in SHIP when you graduate, you may be eligible to purchase up to three months of Continuation Coverage through Anthem BCBS, helping you maintain health insurance while transitioning after graduation.
Continuation Coverage is purchased directly through the Student Advantage Portal and is offered at a seperate rate from the SHIP. Visit the portal for eligibility, enrollment information, and current premiums.
Questions about enrollment or waivers?
If you have questions about enrolling in SHIP, determining your eligibility, submitting a waiver, or understanding enrollment deadlines, the SHIP Office is here to help.
We can assist with:
- Determining whether you're eligible to enroll in or waive SHIP
- Understanding the waiver requirements
- Navigating the enrollment and waiver process
- Answering questions about coverage eligibility and important deadlines
- Reviewing your enrollment or waiver status
- Answering general questions about the Student Health Insurance Plan