Aetna Student Health provides tailored health insurance plans for college students. These plans ensure students have access to quality healthcare while focusing on their education.
This article explores Aetna Student Health’s offerings, benefits, and how to make the most of them in 2025.
What Is Aetna Student Health?
Aetna Student Health is a division of Aetna, a CVS Health company, focused on student insurance.
It partners with colleges and universities to offer ACA-compliant health plans. These plans cover medical, dental, vision, and mental health needs.
The program serves domestic and international students across the U.S. Aetna Student Health aims to provide affordable, accessible care. It’s designed to meet the unique needs of students balancing academics and health.
Why Students Need Health Insurance
College life can be unpredictable, with risks like illnesses or injuries. Health insurance ensures students get timely care without financial stress. Aetna Student Health plans cover emergencies, routine checkups, and preventive services.
Many universities require students to have health insurance. Aetna’s plans meet these mandates, including Affordable Care Act (ACA) standards. This gives students peace of mind to focus on studies.
Types of Aetna Student Health Plans
Aetna Student Health offers various plan types to suit different needs. Plans are often customized for each school, ensuring relevant coverage. Common options include:
- PPO Plans: Flexible coverage with in-network and out-of-network providers.
- HMO Plans: Require a primary care provider within the network.
- Basic and Plus Plans: Vary in premiums and coverage levels, like at Boston University.
- Dental and Vision Add-Ons: Optional coverage for eye and dental care.
These plans balance cost and coverage for students’ lifestyles.
Key Benefits of Aetna Student Health
Aetna Student Health plans come with robust benefits. They cover essential health services and offer extra perks. Here are some highlights:
- Nationwide Network: Access to 1.8 million providers and 9,900 CVS pharmacies.
- Preventive Care: Free annual exams, vaccinations, and screenings.
- Mental Health Support: Counseling and therapy services for stress or anxiety.
- Global Coverage: Emergency care abroad through On Call International.
These benefits support students’ physical and mental well-being.
Coverage Details for 2025
Aetna Student Health plans for 2025 include comprehensive coverage. Most plans run from August 1, 2025, to July 31, 2026. Premiums vary by school, averaging $2,000–$4,741 annually.
Deductibles range from $350 in-network to $550 out-of-network, as seen at UMBC. Copays for prescriptions are typically $15–$75, depending on the drug tier. Plans also cover lab work, X-rays, and specialist visits.
Costs of Aetna Student Health Plans
Costs depend on the university and plan type. For example, Boston University’s 2025–2026 basic plan costs $3,538 annually, while the Plus plan is $4,741. New York Tech charges $2,070 for domestic students and $2,200 for international students.
Here’s a sample cost breakdown for 2025–2026:
| University | Plan Type | Annual Premium | Coverage Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boston University | Basic | $3,538 | 8/15/2025–8/14/2026 |
| Boston University | Plus | $4,741 | 8/15/2025–8/14/2026 |
| New York Tech | Domestic | $2,070 | 8/1/2025–7/31/2026 |
| New York Tech | International | $2,200 | 8/1/2025–7/31/2026 |
These costs are billed to student accounts, often with tuition.
Enrollment and Waiver Process
Many schools automatically enroll students in Aetna Student Health plans. This applies to full-time, international, or on-campus students, like at George Washington University. Premiums are added to student accounts unless waived.
To waive coverage, students must prove comparable insurance by deadlines (e.g., September 12, 2025, at GW). Waivers are submitted online via university portals or Aetna’s website. International students often cannot waive due to visa requirements.
How to Access Your Aetna Student Health Benefits
Enrolled students can access benefits through the Aetna member portal. Create an account using your student ID and date of birth. The Aetna Health app offers digital ID cards and provider searches.
Visit in-network providers to minimize costs. Use the Aetna Student Health website to find doctors or pharmacies. For emergencies abroad, contact On Call International at 1-866-525-1956.
Dental and Vision Coverage Options
Aetna Student Health offers optional dental and vision plans. For example, Boston University’s dental PPO plan costs $478 annually, covering 8/15/2025–8/14/2026. Vision plans, like at Penn, provide a $125 allowance for glasses or contacts.
Some schools include discount programs, like Aetna Vital Savings, for dental and vision services. These are not insurance but offer savings at participating providers. Check your school’s plan for availability.
Support for International Students
International students on F-1 or J-1 visas often face mandatory enrollment. Aetna Student Health plans provide global emergency coverage, crucial for students studying abroad. On Call International assists with medical emergencies, lost luggage, or travel issues.
For example, at Montclair State, international students cannot waive coverage if on state-subsidized plans like Medicaid. This ensures compliance with visa and ACA requirements. Coverage extends to dependents in some cases.
Mental Health and Wellness Resources
Aetna Student Health prioritizes mental health. Plans cover counseling and therapy, often with low copays. Many schools, like Rice University, integrate behavioral health services with campus clinics.
Wellness perks include discounts on fitness programs, massage therapy, and acupuncture. The Aetna Health app provides tools for stress management and health tracking. These resources help students thrive academically and personally.
Using Aetna Student Health at Campus Clinics
Many universities pair Aetna Student Health with on-campus health services. For example, at Seattle University, visits to the Student Health Center cost a $5 administrative fee. Lab work referred by the clinic is covered at 100% with no deductible.
Off-campus care, like specialist visits or hospitalizations, uses Aetna’s network. Always check provider network status to avoid extra costs. The Aetna portal lists in-network providers near your campus.
Special Features for 2025
In 2025, Aetna Student Health plans include enhanced benefits. Gender-affirming care, like electrolysis and voice therapy, is now covered at some schools.
Neuropsychological testing has no deductible, improving access to mental health diagnostics.
Aetna’s Personal Navigators assist with claims and provider questions, especially for gender-affirming care. The Aetna Health app now offers virtual ID cards, reducing the need for physical cards. These updates reflect Aetna’s focus on student needs.
How to Maximize Your Aetna Student Health Plan
To get the most from your plan, use in-network providers. This reduces copays and out-of-pocket costs. Schedule preventive care, like annual checkups, to stay healthy without extra charges.
Download the Aetna Health app for easy access to your ID card and benefits. Contact Aetna’s customer service at 1-877-480-4161 for claims or coverage questions. Stay informed about your school’s waiver deadlines to avoid unwanted charges.
Challenges and Considerations
Some students face delays in receiving digital ID cards due to enrollment processing. For example, at MSU, it can take 10 days for ID cards to appear in the Aetna portal. Always carry your digital ID for medical visits.
Waiver audits can be strict, as seen at Montclair State. Ensure your alternative insurance meets ACA and university requirements. International students should avoid Medicaid, as it may conflict with visa rules.
Aetna’s Commitment to Students
Aetna Student Health serves over 400,000 students across 150 schools. Its plans are tailored to each university, ensuring relevant coverage. A dedicated Chief Medical Officer oversees student health needs.
Aetna uses data analytics to monitor claims and improve services. This helps keep premiums affordable and benefits comprehensive. The company’s partnership with CVS Health enhances access to pharmacies and MinuteClinics.
Summary
Aetna Student Health offers comprehensive, ACA-compliant insurance for college students in 2025. With nationwide provider networks, mental health support, and global coverage, these plans meet diverse needs.
Students can access preventive care, dental, and vision benefits while managing costs. Check your university’s enrollment and waiver process to make informed choices. Aetna’s digital tools and customer support make managing your plan easy.
FAQ
What is Aetna Student Health?
Aetna Student Health provides health insurance for college students. It offers ACA-compliant plans with medical, dental, and vision coverage. Plans are tailored to each university’s needs.
Who is eligible for Aetna Student Health plans?
Full-time, international, and on-campus students are often automatically enrolled. Other students, kuten graduate or non-degree students, may enroll voluntarily. Check your university’s requirements.
How much do Aetna Student Health plans cost?
Premiums vary by school, ranging from $2,070 to $4,741 annually. Costs are billed to student accounts. Dental and vision add-ons have separate fees, like $478 at Boston University.
Can I waive Aetna Student Health coverage?
Yes, if you have comparable ACA-compliant insurance. Submit a waiver by your school’s deadline, like September 12, 2025, at GW. International students often cannot waive coverage.
How do I access my Aetna Student Health benefits?
Use the Aetna Health app or member portal for digital ID cards and provider searches. Contact Aetna at 1-877-480-4161 for claims or coverage questions. Visit in-network providers to save money.