Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) Overview
Overview
Tufts University is committed to supporting your health and well-being. Massachusetts law requires all students enrolled at least 75% of full-time to have health insurance that meets minimum state standards. Read more about the Massachusetts Student Health Insurance Regulations (956 CMR 8.00). To help you meet this requirement, Tufts offers a comprehensive Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) each academic year.
What is SHIP?
The Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) is a health insurance policy designed specifically for Tufts students. It is offered through UnitedHealthcare StudentResources (UHCSR) and underwritten by Harvard Pilgrim Health Care. SHIP provides nationwide coverage — in Massachusetts and when traveling out of state.
Who Is Automatically Enrolled?
You will be automatically enrolled in SHIP if you are:
- An undergraduate or graduate student in a residential program on the Medford/Somerville campus, and
- Enrolled in 7 or more credits for the semester.
If you already have comparable insurance, you can submit a waiver by the published deadline.
Note: Students on the Boston or Grafton campuses should contact the Student Advisory and Health Administration Office (SAHA) for information about their health insurance options.
2025–2026 Plan Details
- Coverage Dates: August 20, 2025 – August 19, 2026
- Annual Premium: $4,693
- The premium charge appears on your student account in early July 2025.
- Waiver Deadline: July 31, 2025
Students enrolled in SHIP are also charged the mandatory Student Health and Wellness Fee, which supports access to on-campus health, counseling, and other wellness services.
If you do not submit a waiver by the deadline, you will remain enrolled and responsible for the full cost of SHIP.
What Does SHIP Cover?
SHIP provides comprehensive coverage, including primary care and specialist visits, mental health services (in-person and virtual), emergency care and hospitalization, prescription medications, telehealth services through HealthiestYou, and vision coverage through EyeMed. Learn more about benefit coverage available through SHIP on the What SHIP Covers.
Paying for SHIP With Financial Aid
Most students are billed for SHIP in early July. If you receive financial aid, scholarships, or other funding, Tufts Financial Services may apply those funds toward your insurance cost. If you have questions about funding or your eligibility, contact your Financial Aid Counselor.
Already Have Health Insurance?
If your current plan meets Massachusetts Minimum Creditable Coverage (MCC) requirements, you can waive SHIP. Learn more about the waiver process on our Waiving Coverage page.
Getting Started
Using Your Plan
What the Plan Covers
What's Not Covered by SHIP
How to Use Your Insurance
Prescriptions
Help and After Tufts
PhD Students
Most PhD students in the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, School of Engineering, and Fletcher School receive full coverage of SHIP and the Health and Wellness Fee.
This benefit is typically part of your financial aid or award package. It only applies if you are enrolled in SHIP. Tufts does not contribute toward other insurance plans.
Questions About PhD Funding
- Graduate School of Arts & Sciences or Engineering: Scholarships and Aid
- Email: gradserve@tufts.edu
- Fletcher School: Building Your Financial Plan