Health Insurance
Health Insurance and BC Medical Services Plan (MSP)
UNBC's number one priority is the health and safety of students. As part of our commitment to your health and safety UNBC requires that all students have health insurance while registered as a student.
All new international students will be automatically enrolled in mandatory health insurance.
Please be aware, even if you already have private health insurance you will still be enrolled in this insurance. If you have already purchased insurance, check with your provider about getting a refund, before your coverage begins.
Mandatory Private Health Insurance
The mandatory private health insurance is required for new students that do not currently have BC MSP. Depending on the date of arrival new students typically need coverage for 2-3 months. Private health insurance charge of $190 CAD will be applied directly to your student account. It provides comprehensive coverage for medically necessary care for the duration of the semester.
Students who already have active British Columbia Medical Services Plan coverage can opt-out by the add/drop date of each semester and receive a refund. Students will need to provide proof of active MSP to International to be eligible for an opt-out.
For more information on private health insurance coverage, visit www.guard.me.
Early Arrivals
If you will arrive early in Canada before the start of your program, you can apply for additional medical insurance coverage through guard.me. Early arrival is a one-time purchase only, it cannot be purchased beyond your program start date.
Dependents
If you are an international student and have been enrolled in the guard.me plan, you can apply for coverage for your dependents. Please note that you can only apply for your dependents after you have received your certificate or policy number.
Healthcare in British Columbia - Medical Services Plan
All international students in British Columbia must pay a $75 a month fee for healthcare to the Province of British Columbia. This fee begins after the mandatory waiting period. You are responsible for enrolling yourself and paying for this independently. This fee cannot be paid from your UNBC account. UNBC International will assist you with the registration process.
The British Columbia MSP is separate from your Extended Health and Dental Plan and should not be confused. If you have questions about your Extended Health and Dental Plan please see www.studentcare.ca or speak with your student union.
Learn more about BC MSP:
- How do I enroll with BC MSP?
- When does my coverage begin?
- How do I add and remove dependents (e.g. spouse & child)?
- Health Fee for International students Q&A
Extended Health and Dental Plan
All full-time undergraduate and graduate students are automatically enrolled in an extended health and dental plan, which covers many services not covered by basic medical services.
