Health insurance

Introduction

Québec law requires international students studying in Québec to have valid health insurance. École Polytechnique’s group insurance plan is therefore compulsory for all foreign students enrolled in the school. As such, international students are automatically insured, right from the time they register. However, some students are entitled to claim exemption from this plan.

For new international students, coverage comes into effect once they arrive in Canada, although no earlier than August 15 for the fall semester or December 15 for the winter semester. If you plan to arrive earlier than these two dates, we strongly recommend that you take out private health insurance to cover the period between your arrival and the start of your contract.

Health insurance fees are automatically added to your tuition fees (for more information about cost[+...], in French). They will appear on your second billing notice, and not the first invoice for registration. However, your coverage starts the moment you arrive. Exchange students are required to pay for the plan in full when they arrive, upon presentation of their immigration documents (see Step 4).

During your first month, you will receive an e-mail informing you that you can pick up your health insurance card at the registrar’s office.

Note that the school’s health insurance plan covers medical and hospital fees only, as well as prescription medication. It does not cover dental or eye care (eyeglasses). The plan does include repatriation coverage in the event of death or disability.

Useful links

• Your group insurance plan [pdf - updated September 2011]
• Claim for health-care benefits [pdf]
• List of Montreal medical clinics