Current International Students

My Canada Plan

The International Student Medical Plan provides coverage in the event of a medical emergency, such as an injury or illness, for eligible RDP international students while studying in Canada. The coverage is comparable to doctor-insured services such as visiting a medical clinic or hospital. The fees will be added to your student account. Read more about what services may be covered here.

International students are automatically enrolled in the International Student Medical Plan and Repatriation Plan if they meet the following criteria:

• You are a new international student; or
• You are a continuing or returning international student and hold a valid study permit
• You are registered and accepted in an eligible program as an international student
• You are under the age of 65

International students are responsible for purchasing their own insurance while they travel to Canada and before attending the first day of classes. 

Opting Out

International students who have valid Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) can submit an online Opt-Out Application to waive the International Student Medical Plan by the deadline. You must upload a picture or scan of your Alberta Health Card to your Opt-Out Application as proof of coverage.

Email mycanada@rdpolytech.ca if you have questions.

Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)

Some international students may be eligible for free provincial healthcare through the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). Individuals who are eligible for this coverage are provided full coverage for medically necessary physician services, and some dental and oral surgical health services. Read about what services may be covered here.

International students studying in Alberta, may be eligible for AHCIP coverage if:  

• The international student has a 12-month study permit (valid for an Alberta educational institution)  
• The international student intends to reside in Alberta for 12 months or more  
• International students who provide proof of their Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan may be eligible to opt-out of the My Canada International Insurance Plan

How To Apply for AHCIP 
You cannot apply for Alberta Health Care coverage until you are physically here in Alberta. When you apply for Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) coverage, you must provide:    

• Proof of Alberta residency - This could be an electronic utility bill showing an Alberta address or a non-utility statement or correspondence mailed to your Alberta address.
• Proof of your identity - This could be an ID card or driver’s license issued by any official government or a valid passport.
• Proof of legal entitlement to be in Canada: This could be an approved and valid study permit.

To review details on how to apply for AHCIP coverage, visit the Government of Alberta’s website. 

Your Responsibilities
Apply for the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) by mail or at an authorized registry agent office. If you wish to apply in person, here are a few Registry Offices in Red Deer:

• Red Deer Registries, 7101 - 20 Sharpe Avenue, Red Deer
• One Stop License Shop, B - 3440 50th Ave, Red Deer

Students’ Association of Red Deer Polytechnic Extended Health & Dental Plan 

The Students’ Association of Red Deer Polytechnic offers an affordable extended Health & Dental Plan for full-time students. If you meet the eligibility requirements for enrollment, the cost of the plans is included in your fees.  

This plan provides extended health and dental coverage. Click here to review additional information about this coverage, to download your benefits card and to learn more about this coverage.  

Your Responsibilities

• Read about your coverage and email SARDP Benefits Plan Office if you have questions.
• Print your myBenefits Card.

Red Deer Polytechnic's International Mentorship Program connects new international students with continuing students who can provide support as they transition to life in Canada and at RDP.

New international students will be paired with continuing RDP students based on similarities in programs and/or interests.

This mentorship program seeks to foster a welcoming environment where students can connect to share their experiences and expand their network.