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Vet, Law & JGSM

Cornell’s Student Health Insurance Plan is an Excellent Value for Vet, Law, and JGSM Students

Cornell's Policy on Health Insurance

Your health is essential to achieving your goals at Cornell. Access to health care and adequate health insurance are essential to your health. Without adequate coverage, unexpected medical expenses could alter your future dramatically. That is why Cornell is proud to offer the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP), designed by Cornellians, for Cornellians, to provide the coverage and protection you need. 

The University’s policy of enrolling all students in the SHIP demonstrates its commitment to student health and well-being. Our experience over many years of working with Cornell students makes it clear that this policy serves students well. During your years at Cornell, we are confident that you will appreciate the coverage provided by the SHIP and the peace of mind that comes from being well-insured.


Highlights of the SHIP

The SHIP has been developed especially for Cornell students (and their dependents) to provide access to convenient and efficient care that complements the quality health services offered on campus.

The details of the plan are reviewed and recommended each year by Cornell’s Student Insurance Advisory Committee (made up of students, faculty, and staff, including health services staff). This ensures that the coverage is well-suited to the needs of the Cornell students and respectful of their budgets. The SHIP is managed by The Chickering Group and underwritten by Aetna Life Insurance Company. The Plan meets all of the student health insurance standards developed by the American College Health Association.

  • The SHIP is an accident and sickness policy that:
  • Provides extensive coverage at a reasonable cost for most on- or off-campus medical care from August 17 through August 16.
  • Provides coverage 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, anywhere in the world.
  • When plan members are in Ithaca , provides coordination of services by health services staff who know Cornell students and a preferred provider network that includes the local hospital.
  • Covers pre-existing medical conditions.
  • Guards against catastrophic expenses.
  • Covers inpatient and outpatient mental health care in the Ithaca area
  • Continues coverage when students have to take a leave of absence.
  • Meets or exceeds all F-1 and J-1 visa requirements.
  • Includes world-wide travel assistance and emergency air transportation services.
  • Offers optional dental and vision plans for members.
  • Provides convenient assistance with enrollment and claims submission through the Cornell University Office of Student Health Insurance.