How to Choose Health Insurance as an International Student at UNC Charlotte

Attending the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte) means planning ahead—not just for classes and housing, but also for your health insurance coverage. Like many U.S. universities, UNC Charlotte requires international students to maintain comprehensive health insurance that meets specific criteria.

While the university automatically enrolls eligible students in its Student Blue Health plan, you may be able to waive this coverage if you already have a comparable plan. Here’s what you need to know about the insurance requirements, waiver deadlines, and how to successfully submit your waiver at UNC Charlotte.

What Is a UNC Charlotte Health Insurance Waiver?

Each semester, UNC Charlotte automatically enrolls international students into the university-sponsored Student Blue health plan. However, you can opt out by submitting a waiver request if you have your own policy that meets the university’s coverage standards.

To be eligible for a waiver, your plan must meet strict requirements and be active for the full semester — from August 1, 2025, through December 31, 2025. Annual coverage is highly recommended to prevent gaps in insurance and avoid having to submit a second waiver in the spring.

UNC Charlotte Waiver Requirements for International Students

When looking for an alternative plan, you must find a plan which covers the following requirements according to the school website:

• $100,000 USD total benefit per accident or illness
• Deductible no higher than $500 USD
• $50,000 USD in medical evacuation coverage
• $25,000 USD in repatriation coverage
• Coverage active for the entire semester
• Mental health and maternity benefits

Need a plan that covers these requirements? Look through ISO’s UNC-Charlotte plans- starting as low as $31/month.

Fall 2025 Waiver Deadline at UNC Charlotte

The waiver submission deadline for Fall 2025 is September 10, 2025. You must have your insurance active before the start of classes, and your waiver must be submitted and approved by this date to avoid being charged for the Student Blue plan.

If you miss the deadline, you will remain enrolled in the school plan and will be responsible for the premium.

How to Submit a Waiver at UNC Charlotte

Here’s what international students need to do to opt out:

Step 1: Purchase a Alternative Plan

1. Purchase a qualifying plan

Choose a plan that meets UNC Charlotte’s standards. ISO offers multiple options that are already accepted.

2. Collect your documents

After enrollment, you’ll receive an insurance ID card and waiver form.

3. Submit your waiver online

Go to the Student Blue portal and upload your documents before the September 10 deadline.

4. Wait for confirmation

Once your waiver is approved, the university will remove the health insurance charge from your bill.

Why International Students at UNC Charlotte Choose ISO

Waiver-Approved Plans

ISO plans meet UNC Charlotte’s insurance requirements and are accepted for waivers.

Fall or Full-Year Enrollment Options

Enroll for just the Fall semester or select annual coverage for peace of mind. Need Fall only? Just contact ISO after signing up.

Instant Enrollment

Enroll in minutes online and get your ID card and waiver form right away.

Affordable Premiums with Strong Benefits

ISO plans include coverage for urgent care, hospital visits, mental health, prescriptions, and preventive services — all with lower out-of-pocket costs than many school plans.

National Provider Network

Through Aetna PPO, ISO provides access to a wide network of doctors and clinics, including many in the Charlotte area and the student health center.

Support from a Global Team

ISO’s multilingual team is here to assist with any questions you may have before, during and after your insurance purchase. Having issues with waivers? Reach out to ISO via email, phone, Whatsapp, etc.

Ready to Enroll?

Sign up for your ISO plan today and submit your waiver before September 10, 2025. Visit https://www.isoa.org/schools/university-of-north-carolina-charlotte to enroll and get your documents instantly.