Massachusetts's law requires every full-time or part-time student enrolled in any institution of higher learning in the state to participate in a qualifying student health insurance program or a health benefit plan with comparable coverage.

Private insurance plan members MUST submit a Health Insurance Decision Form (PDF) annually.

You must be enfolled for at least 9 credits and in a degree granting program. All undergraduate students that do not return a Health Insurance Waiver Form form and have at least 9 credits, will be automatically billed. If you are enrolled in a Certificate or Graduate Program, you must return a waiver form to be enrolled in the insurance plan.

Please note: Free Care that is offered by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is not considered health insurance.

International Health Insurance is not accepted. All international students must participate in the qualifying school sponsored health insurance program, no exceptions.

The basic purpose of the school insurance is to provide protection for students from the large and unpredictable costs of medical care that are incurred during serious illness and accidents.

In addition, health insurance allows students to get a Primary Care Physician in the Boston area as well as obtain access to additional services not provided by Student Health Services.

The Chickering Group (1-800-859-8468) is MassArt's health insurance provider. Coverage begins annually August 1st and ends July 31st. There is a $25.00 deductible for visits to physicians and clinics (including hospital walk-in clinics) and a $50.00 deductible for visits to the Emergency Room. Most prescriptions will cost $10.00 for generic & $15.00 for brand name.

There is no restricted list of physicians; you may choose any physician you wish. Student Health Services can provide a list of "Preferred Providers".

There are no claim forms or referral forms needed; the physician will bill the insurance directly after your visit. The insurance company will mail your insurance card to you in November or, for Spring semester students, in February.

There are important limitations to coverage. Please read through the insurance booklet carefully to understand the stature and scope of your benefits. Call the insurance company if there are any questions regarding coverage where you seek service.

Private Health Insurance

Students who have private insurance must make sure their insurance will cover them for the entire academic year and, if they are covered by an HMO, that approval will be given for any necessary out-of-plan care while living in the Boston area.

Be sure you thoroughly understand your health insurance (subscriber number, name of plan, co-payment requirement fee, scope of coverage, rules and regulations, etc.) before you use it.

If you are part of an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) such as Havard Vanguard or Tufts, you have a preferred provider list, which you must use in order to have a physician's visit covered by the insurance.

A referral number must be obtained from the insurance company before you see anyone not on their list. It is your responsibility to call your HMO for specific information before any expenses are incurred.

Also, it is helpful to find out if your insurance has prescription privileges (i.e., generic prescriptions at reduced costs).

The Student Health Services staff can help you with insurance information such as filling out a claim form, understanding your health coverage, and other health insurance procedures.