For Immediate Release:
August 21, 2025
Get Ready for School
By Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready
Going to college or trade school is a huge milestone, but it’s also the first time many young people encounter adult responsibilities. Part of this is having insurance, understanding what it covers and how to use it in case you need it. To give you a good starting point, I’ve created a basic guide to help you navigate the types of insurance you might need and decide which coverages to consider.
Health Insurance
If you’re under 26, your parents’ health insurance plan might already cover you. If not, you can seek coverage through plans provided by your institution or through the Affordable Care Act marketplace if you are not covered or will lose coverage. Regardless of your plan, knowing what types of care are covered (like emergency or routine care, for example) and which doctors and facilities are in network is vital.
Renters Insurance
You might choose to live on campus or rent an apartment off campus, but you will want renters insurance in either situation. A university’s or landlord’s insurance policy will not cover your belongings. Renters insurance is an inexpensive way to protect yourself while away from home. It will also provide you with personal liability insurance. If you live on campus, your parents’ homeowners insurance policy might extend to cover your dorm room.
Auto Insurance
If you’re moving away for school, tell your insurer your new address and how you’ll be using your car. It can affect your rates. You might also qualify for savings. Ask your agent about discounts for good grades, safe driving, or school/organization affiliations like fraternities or sororities.
Identity Theft Protection
Today’s students are part of a generation of advanced technology users, where using a computer or device is necessary to complete coursework. With these new tools come new threats, and college students are particularly vulnerable, having limited life experience and short credit histories. Good digital safety is essential, like not accessing private information on public Wi-Fi networks and monitoring finances for fraudulent activity. Consider purchasing an identity theft policy. You can obtain it as an inexpensive add-on to homeowners or renters insurance or a standalone policy that can run from $20-$60 a year or $10 and up for monthly plans.
Travel Insurance for Study Abroad
Students planning to study abroad should know their travel insurance options. Depending on the level of coverage, these policies can help cover travel disruption, trip cancellation or medical emergencies. Check with your institution or program for group insurance options, especially for extended stays.
Attending college or trade school is an exciting time in young people’s lives, but it comes with heightened responsibilities. Understanding your insurance coverage and options will give you peace of mind while on your educational journey. For more information about all lines of insurance, please get in touch with the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) at oid.ok.gov or 800-522-0071.