Medical insurance for international students | Immigration and getting settled in Quebec

Mandatory health insurance

International students are required to have a health insurance during their stay in Quebec.

Your enrollment in the health insurance plan provided by HEC Montréal (Cowan) is automatic. This insurance covers you throughout Canada for a specific period. The associated fees will appear on your bill.

Arriving before the coverage period starts? We strongly recommend purchasing insurance with adequate coverage until that time. Find out more: Sécuriglobe or Blue Cross.

Possible exemptions

You can opt out of the Cowan plan if you qualify for Quebec Health Insurance (RAMQ).

In case you are a student holding a diplomatic visa, you can obtain an exemption if:

you qualify for RAMQ or any other provincial health insurance plan;
as a result of your diplomatic status, you have an equal or a better medical and hospital care insurance plan than the one Cowan is offering. If this is the case, prior to your departure, be sure to have a statement from your insurer with your name, coverage period and range of benefits.

Premium reimbursed

Supplemental health insurance

Although the School does not insist upon it, students are free to opt for supplemental insurance. This type of insurance can work well for items that are not covered by Cowan or RAMQ, such as dental, optometry and long-term travel. These areas are also covered by some private insurers. Get informed!

List of options

A: International students eligible for RAMQ

B: Other International students

Insurance	A	B
RAMQ only – basic coverage, excluding dental and optometry services (no cost)
RAMQ with Alumo supplemental – health and dental or one option ($396.38)
RAMQ and other supplemental insurance (costs vary)
Cowan – including 60-day travel insurance ($711)
Cowan with Alumo supplemental – dental only ($935.06)

Questions?

Contact Zone Info

incoming [at] hec.ca (Contact the IASMS) if you are participating in an exchange program