With college tuition rates skyrocketing and the economy continuing to struggle, many low-income college students face an especially difficult challenge when it comes to maintaining their health: an inability to afford necessary health care. This is especially true of students living below the federal poverty line, as their incomes likely don’t allow for any medical coverage whatsoever. Luckily, the available health insurance options for low-income college students have changed for the better, and the benefits they bring to those already facing financial strains can be invaluable.

One of the biggest benefits of health insurance for low-income college students is the access it provides to routine and specialized medical care. Health insurance can provide peace of mind that the cost of injuries, illnesses, emergency care, and medications won’t be an immediate financial burden. Additionally, with health insurance, college students gain access to preventive care like physicals and vaccinations. This is an important benefit as physicals can help doctors catch medical issues before they have the chance to become major problems, and vaccinations can help protect against serious illnesses and infections.

For low-income students whose incomes may still be too low to afford health insurance premiums, there are various health insurance options available that don’t require much, or any, cost at all. The Affordable Care Act expanded Medicaid eligibility, which makes coverage available for some students with incomes below 138% of the federal poverty line. This includes students who are able to claim a family member as a dependent. Additionally, some states offer low-cost or no-cost health insurance for college students who qualify and don’t have access to employer-based health plans.

Other options, like the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) and commonly available university-based medical plans, can provide additional medical coverage through campus-based health services at often discounted rates. SHIPs can cover preventive care and medications, as well as mental health services and select vision and dental services. There may also be additional opportunities to purchase coverage through religious- or community-based health organizations.

Finally, students should also be aware that government-sponsored programs like Medicare and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provide certain college students with access to health care. If you or a family member would qualify for either of these plans, you should consider taking advantage of them.

Obtaining health insurance as a low-income college student isn’t always easy. However, with a bit of time and research, it’s entirely possible to find a program that suits your budget and needs. The access to quality care and peace of mind that this provides can help ensure you can effectively manage any health issues that may come up during your time in college.