Health Insurance
In general, Caltech health insurance, as well as other benefits, will begin on the first day of the month following your date of hire (scholars), or at the start of the academic term (students). We recommend short-term insurance for students, scholars, and families to ensure coverage from the time of departure from your home country until enrolled in Caltech's insurance plan (if eligible). If you are taking prescription drugs, bring at least a one-month supply of your medication.
Students. All registered students must have Caltech medical and dental insurance or other insurance that meets Caltech's waiver requirements. See Caltech Benefits for more information.
Scholars. For eligible faculty, staff, postdocs, and visitors, Caltech health insurance will begin on the first day of the month following your date of hire.
• If you start working on February 1, your Caltech coverage begins February 1.
• If you start working on February 15, your Caltech coverage begins March 1.
The Summary of Caltech Benefits includes detailed information about the health and welfare benefits available to Caltech postdocs, staff, and faculty. It also reflects the current cost of health insurance to Caltech scholars who are eligible for the Institute subsidy. Caltech makes the same plans available to scholars who are not eligible for the Institute subsidy.
J Requirements. J-1 exchange visitors and J-2 dependents must comply with the Department of State J insurance requirements. Medical Evacuation and Repatriation (MER) coverage is provided for free to all active J-1 exchange visitors and J-2 dependents in the Caltech J program. The Caltech/JPL HMO plans meet the J health insurance requirements. For more information, see Insurance for J-1 Exchange Visitors and J-2 Dependents.
J-1 and J-2 exchange visitors who are residents for tax purposes may be subject to the requirements of the Affordable Care Act. 22 CFR 62.14(a)
Dependents. In general, dependents of Caltech students and scholars are eligible for health insurance. Please see the student and scholar sections on the Caltech Benefits site for further information.
Changes. You can change your health plan only once a year, during the open enrollment period (October/November). However, if you are part of an HMO, you can change your primary doctor at any time, provided the new doctor belongs to the same medical group and it is before the 30th of the month.
Health care: For more information on obtaining healthcare in the US, visit our Health page.
DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this website is for general information only. Caltech does not endorse or recommend any of the organizations listed.