Yes in practice: every international student needs medical coverage for the whole stay, either through a provincial health plan, a private plan arranged by the school, or both.
- Rules by province: Health care is run by each province. In British Columbia, students with a study permit of six months or longer must enrol in the Medical Services Plan (MSP), and K-12 students are included.
- Waiting period: B.C. coverage begins after the rest of the arrival month plus two more months. Students carry private insurance until then, and B.C. bills a health fee of CAD 75 per month once enrolled.
- Private plans: Ontario's published list of OHIP-eligible groups does not include study permit holders, so districts there rely on private plans. Where charged separately, annual insurance is typically around CAD 500-1,100 (Canada High Schools school database, October 2026).
- What is covered: Plans generally cover doctor visits, hospital care and emergencies. Public plans usually do not cover dental care, eye care or glasses, prescription medicines or ambulance services.
- Before you pay: Ask the school which insurer it uses, whether the premium is included in program fees, and how pre-existing conditions and routine medication are handled.
Please note: Coverage, fees and eligibility are set by each province and insurer and are updated periodically; confirm with your school before arrival.
Official sources: Government of B.C.: Health fee for international students · Ontario: Apply for OHIP and get a health card · Canada.ca: Health care in Canada
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