Benefits Information for J1 Scholars

International J1 scholars in a postdoc .75 or greater FTE assignment lasting 6 months or more are eligible to enroll in a health insurance plan and have access to other OSU benefits. OSU pays the premium of the health plan for the employee in full, but the employee must pay dependent premiums in full for the semester at the time of enrollment. Enrollment occurs each semester.

Dependent enrollment cannot be processed or extended until the employee’s coverage is active. For information on dependent verification, click here.

Health Plan Information

2025-26 International Injury & Sickness Insurance Plan for OSU

Optional Coverages

Dental
Vision
Flexible Spending Accounts (for visa holder, please consult a tax accountant for guidance on eligibility for use of health Flexible Spending Account funds in relation to your J visa status.)
Health Savings Accounts (for visa holder, please consult a tax accountant for guidance on eligibility for use of Health Savings Account funds in relation to your J visa status.)
Voluntary Group Life Insurance
Voluntary Short-Term Disability
Voluntary Long-Term Disability
Cancer Protection
MASA Ambulance Service

Retirement

Postdocs are not eligible for the university paid retirement, OTRS or TIAA 401a accounts. Postdocs may contribute to the voluntary retirement 403b/457b and Roth of either plan.