Student health plan to return to Berkeley’s management

Image of Berkeley's UHS/Tang signOn May 2, 2013, Chancellor Birgeneau announced his decision to support the request from the Associated Students of the University of California (ASUC) and the Graduate Assembly (GA) to withdraw from the UC-managed Student Health Insurance Plan (UC SHIP) and return to a Berkeley-operated Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) for the 2013-14 academic year.

“Today I am stating my support for the students’ position,” said the Chancellor in a statement. “University Health Services successfully operated the campus-based student health insurance plan for more than 20 years before joining UC SHIP, so I have complete confidence in this effort.”

The new Berkeley SHIP begins August 15, 2013. After the 2013-14 academic year, campus and student leaders will evaluate whether continuing with a campus-based SHIP or returning to UC SHIP will provide the best insurance option for Berkeley students.

For more information, visit: University Health Services’ FAQ.

Graduating or leaving early this semester?

  • Remember, eligibility to use UC SHIP 2012-13 ends August 14, 2013
  • Eligibility to use UC SHIP 2012-13 dental and vision coverage ends July 31, 2013. Remember to use your benefits before July 31!
  • Check out Insurance After Graduation resources at Tang on the SHIP web page before your coverage ends. Tang insurance specialists will hold two Insurance After Graduation workshops on June 12 and July 24. Find out more at the Tang Center website.

Graduate Student Summer Support Groups

Did you know that Counseling and Psychological Services offers free support groups and workshops exclusively for graduate students? Registration for the summer sessions will begin in mid/late May. Call CPS at (510) 642-9494 for more details and to set up a pre-screening phone appointment.

Graduate Women’s Support:  Mondays, 4:15-5:45pm
This support group is offered for female graduate students who wish to come together to share the challenges and struggles of being a grad student, discuss ways to balance school & personal life, discuss relationships with advisors and peers, increase self-confidence, and develop relationships with other women in grad school.

Graduate Men’s  Support: Thursdays, 4-5:30pm
This support group is offered for male graduate students who wish to come together to share the challenges and struggles of being a grad student, discuss ways to deal with the hurdles and hassles of school, find ways to connect with others, discuss relationship issues, and consider ways to manage stress and live a balanced, satisfying and happy life as a Berkeley grad student.