Student health insurance benefits expire on the last day of coverage for the term in which the student graduates (see above).* Review the important information below regarding termination of your current benefits and how to obtain future coverage. 

Note:  Massachusetts residents age 18 and older are required to have health insurance, or pay monthly tax penalties.

Harvard Student Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Plan

Students who have not waived the Harvard Student BCBS Plan will receive two letters from Blue Cross Blue Shield. 

• The first letter will arrive before your insurance termination date (see chart at top of page).  This letter is a reminder that your insurance will be terminating soon.  You do not need to keep this letter.
• The second letter will arrive after your insurance termination date.  This letter certifies your final date of coverage. Keep this letter in a safe place. This is proof of your prior insurance coverage; you will need this document when applying for coverage with your next insurance carrier. 
   

  COBRA is not an option available to graduating students of Harvard University. COBRA is a federal mandate requiring employers to offer extension of health care benefits to their employees after termination of employment. Harvard Student Health Insurance is not an employer group and is not able to offer COBRA to graduating students.

Student Health Fee (SHF)

Graduating students (and their covered dependents) are eligible to receive care at Harvard University Health Services (HUHS) on a fee-for-service basis for up to two months after Student Health Fee coverage terminates. 

• Student is responsible for all charges for services inside and outside of HUHS.
• Student is responsible for all charges for prescription drugs.

By maintaining continuous coverage with no gap after your student health insurance benefits terminate, you ensure yourself the best possible protection from restrictions that might be imposed by your next health insurance carrier (such as pre-existing conditions).  Click on the links below for assistance in finding a health insurance plan that meets your needs after your current coverage terminates.  NOTE: Harvard University Health Services does not endorse any particular plan; links are provided for informational purposes only. 

Guides to Understanding and Buying Health Insurance

• If you plan to reside in Massachusetts - Visit the Commonwealth Health Insurance Connector or call 1-877-MA-ENROLL (1-877-623-6765)
• If you plan to reside in another state or the District of Columbia - Find consumer guides for understanding and obtaining health insurance at www.healthinsuranceinfo.net.