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Medical insurance and health care

While you’re an international student at NIC, you’re required to have valid medical insurance to protect your well-being and cover unexpected expenses. 

1. GuardMe

Upon becoming a student, you will be automatically enrolled in the 90-day GuardMe medical insurance plan. This offers you temporary medical coverage until you are signed up for the provincial BC Medical Service Plan (MSP), which will cover you for the remainder of your studies. 

The cost of the 90-day GuardMe plan is $175.50. The fee is included in your program deposit and will be paid to the provider on your behalf. If you are an international exchange student, you will be enrolled in the plan for your semester. Charges will vary depending on the duration of your studies. 

Your coverage includes: 
  • Medical expenses from injuries and new and unexpected illness 
  • Emergency doctor and hospital visits 
  • Emergency transportation 
  • Annual, non-emergency doctor’s visit 
  • X-ray and lab testing 

Once you have enrolled in MSP (see below), you may opt out of the GuardMe plan. 

2. BC Medical Services Plan

The Medical Service Plan (MSP) is BC’s public health insurance plan. Enrolment is mandatory for all eligible residents, including international students with valid study and/or work permits. Once you arrive in BC and have a permanent address, you must apply for MSP. Note that it can take up to three months before your MSP coverage begins. 

MSP premiums are $75 per month for study permit holders and paid directly to the province. NIC will not collect MSP your fees. 

Your coverage includes: 
  • Doctor visits 
  • Hospital visits 
  • Medical tests and diagnostics 
Learn more

Your MSP coverage is usually valid until your study permit expires. If you intend to extend your study permit to complete your program, you will need to re-apply for MSP.  

If your MSP is set to expire before you receive your updated immigration document(s), contact the Medical Services Plan to inquire about receiving continuous coverage. If you are set to lose MSP coverage, contact the Office of Global Engagement immediately so we can assist in re-enrolling you under the GuardMe health plan to ensure you have health coverage while you wait for your MSP status to be resolved. 

3. GreenShield extended health and dental plan 

As a student, you will be automatically signed up for GreenShield health and dental benefits through your North Island Students’ Union (NISU) membership. This student health plan is available to students who are enrolled in at least six credits starting in the winter of fall terms. 

The NISU health plan costs $285 for one year of full coverage. 

Your NISU plan includes a wide range of services not covered under your primary health insurance. Examples include: 
  • Coverage of 80% of eligible prescription medication costs (up to $2,000 per year) 
  • Coverage of 80% of preventative and restorative dental care (up to $700 per year) 
  • Vision coverage if $225 every two years ($100 for eye exams and $125 for prescription) 
  • Access to a tutor, should you become ill or injured during your studies 
  • Comprehensive accidental death and dismemberment benefits 
  • Travel insurance for trips up to 90 days 

Yes – students who have existing, equivalent coverage can opt out of the extended health and benefits plan. 

Urgent care and other resources 

If you are experiencing chest pains, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding or another medical emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately. 

If you are seeking mental health counselling or if you are concerned about you or someone else’s safety, visit our Wellness and Safety page for a full list of supports. 

Questions?

Email us