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Can I waive Cardinal Care health insurance at Stanford if I already have cover?

02 Oct 2026 · Answered by Disha Roy Choudhury · 1 min read
Quick Answer verified

Yes, students can waive Cardinal Care if they already have another health insurance plan that Stanford accepts. Without a waiver, the plan is estimated at about USD 2,936 per quarter. Check Stanford's official waiver rules and deadlines for your intake before deciding.

Disha Roy Choudhury
Disha Roy Choudhury Verified
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Yes, you can waive Cardinal Care if you already have another health insurance plan that Stanford accepts. Without a waiver, the plan is listed at about USD 2,936 (approx INR 2.82 L) per quarter, so the decision affects your budget noticeably. Confirm what counts as an accepted plan on Stanford's official page.

Cardinal Care and related health costs

ItemEstimated cost in USD
Cardinal Care health insurance2,936 (approx INR 2.82 L) per quarter
Campus Health Service Fee281 (approx INR 26,993) per quarter

Things to keep in mind

  • The waiver depends on holding another plan that Stanford accepts.
  • Stanford's estimated 2026-27 student budget of about USD 97,545 (approx INR 93.70 L) leaves out health insurance and travel.
  • Housing, food and other costs are separate from health cover.

My Advice

Before you buy any outside plan, ask Stanford which plans qualify so you do not pay twice. Compare what the outside plan covers with your expected needs, and keep proof of cover ready. If the plan is not accepted, budget for Cardinal Care instead.

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