Frequently Asked Questions

Opt-Out

If you do not want the Student Health Insurance Plan, you must decline or opt-out of coverage by submitting a waiver. You may only opt-out of coverage during the following Waiver Periods:

Annual - 07/01/2025 - 09/16/2025
Spring/Summer - 11/11/2025 - 01/27/2026
Summer - 03/17/2026 - 06/08/2026

All Pharmacy, Nursing, College of Health Sciences students and International students enrolled at Samford University are responsible for maintaining health insurance and providing coverage information each academic year of enrollment in their programs.

All students enrolled at Samford University who wish to opt-out of the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) must submit alternate coverage information through the Academic HealthPlans Waiver System. In order to be approved for a waiver, your alternate health coverage must meet the requirements listed below and be submitted with proof documentation prior to the deadline.

Please review the requirements below prior to submitting your waiver request.

  1. Coverage must be effective on or before May 5, 2026.
  2. Coverage must extend through the entire Academic Year including breaks and holidays.
  3. Alternate medical benefits of at least $100,000 per accident or illness

 In addition, International J Visa Students:

  1. Proof of Repatriation and medical evacuation expenses in the combined amount of no less than $25,000. Expenses associated with the medical evacuation of exchange visitors to his or her home country in the amount of $50,000.
  2. Deductibles not to exceed $500 per accident or illness.

NOTE: The following plan(s) will NOT be acceptable for waiver approval for Domestic and International waiver submissions:

  • Short-term coverage plans are not accepted.
  • Travel plans or plans that require you to pay for treatment yourself and then apply for reimbursement are not accepted.