DU Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP)

As noted on our Insurance Options page, health (medical) insurance is required for nearly all students at the University of Denver.

The DU Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) is a comprehensive plan, available exclusively to DU students actively enrolled in an on-campus, degree-seeking program. SHIP provides focused coverage for most DU students, especially when combined with the Health & Counseling Fee (HCF), which decreases the cost of a wide range of services offered by the DU Health & Counseling Center.

For 2025-26, SHIP benefits include low co-payments, a $500 in-network deductible, an in-network out-of-pocket maximum of $1750, and an extensive, nationwide network of excellent providers. And if you live on or near the DU campus, SHIP coverage means your primary healthcare provider, the Health & Counseling Center, is just down the block.

While we recommend SHIP coverage for all students, participation in SHIP is not required; you can request a SHIP waiver with proof of adequate alternate insurance, by posted deadlines.

Coverage Dates and Action Deadlines

QUARTER

Coverage period

Waiver Request Deadline

Spring + summer 2025

thru 8/31/2025

passed

Fall + winter 2025

9/1/2025-3/31/2025

9/26/2025

Spring + summer 2026

4/1/2026-8/31/2026

4/17/2026

SEMESTER/LAW

Coverage period

Waiver Request Deadline

Spring + summer 2025

thru 7/31/2025

passed

Fall + winter 2025

8/1/2025-12/31/2025

9/5/2025

Spring + summer 2026

1/1/2026-7/31/2026

1/23/2026

 

Eligibility and Exceptions

All DU students enrolled in a degree-seeking program (except those in completely online or certificate programs*) are eligible to enroll in SHIP. Students registered for one or more credit hours will be automatically assessed the SHIP premium unless approved for a SHIP waiver, by submitting a request each year, along with proof of adequate alternate coverage, by posted deadlines above.

The SHIP premium is assessed (billed) each fall and spring term, appearing on the student's central Student Billing account, and covers a specific period, indicated above.

Students in the College of Professional Studies, programs including the Graduate Tax and Executive MBA, and on Continuous Enrollment status for all programs are not automatically enrolled, and should contact the HCC about enrollment options.

*DU students in completely online or certificate programs are not eligible to enroll in SHIP or receive services at the HCC.

  • How to Participate / Enroll

    2025-26 ENROLLMENT / WAIVER REQUEST HAS BEGUN

    After you have registered for fall classes, sign in to MyDU and select the following options:

    1. Student Resources
    2. Records and Requests
    3. Accept or Waive Health Insurance

    The online system will then offer any applicable options for health fee and insurance.

     

    If an eligible student did/does not submit a waiver request by the deadlines listed above, the DU Student Health Insurance Plan premium (cost) will remain on their DU student bill to ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage.

     

    If you have specific questions regarding the plan benefits or coverage, please contact our office by calling 303- 871-2205 or emailing  insurance@hcc.du.edu  (Please include/have ready your student ID "87" number.)

SHIP Brochures and Certificates

2025-26 SHIP Cost and Payment

The cost to participate in the DU Student Health Insurance Plan for the 2025-26 academic year is $3,980, split into two charges of $1,990, and assessed to student accounts in the fall and spring terms. This is comparable to the cost of much more limited plans on the Colorado Insurance Exchange Marketplace. The SHIP would be rated as a platinum plan under the Affordable Care Act.

Payments for the DU Student Health Insurance Plan can be made online through DUPay. Academic year registration will be verified before enrollment is processed and charges are added.

SHIP Limitations

The DU Student Health Insurance Plan was developed specifically for DU students, and we believe it offers the best coverage available for the vast majority of our student body. Of course, like any insurance plan, it is not without its limitations. Consult the Plan Summary Brochure for complete details.

  • The DU Health & Counseling Center is the most convenient primary care provider for the plan. 
  • If you see an off-campus specialist, the in-network deductible is $500 plus 15% up to $1,750 per year. If you seek treatment with an out-of-network provider, the out-of-network deductible is $1,500 plus 40% up to $7,500 per year.
  • The plan does not include vision or dental. However, there is a separate DU student dental/vision plan.