Think You Don’t Need Insurance in College? Think Again.

by Katelynn Mouton

For many college students, insurance feels like a problem for later, but according to State Farm agent Jennifer Mabou, that mindset can be a costly mistake. 

From protecting laptops and personal belongings, to locking in affordable life insurance early, Mabou says the college years are actually one of the smartest times to start thinking about coverage, and most of it costs far less than students (and their parents) expect. 

This raises an important question: what coverage do college students really need right now? 

According to Mabou, one of the most overlooked essentials is renter’s insurance. “While some students may have limited coverage under their parent’s policy, filing a claim can come with high deductibles and long-term impacts on the policy. A separate renter’s policy, however, is typically far more affordable, often averaging around $15 a month.” 

Mabou adds that these policies typically offer lower deductibles and can help protect a student’s personal belongings without affecting their parents’ coverage. 

Beyond renter’s insurance, Mabou stresses the importance of thinking more broadly about protecting both the student’s belongings and their future. “Items like laptops and other high-value electronics can be covered through personal articles polices, while supplemental health insurance can help offset the rising costs of high-deductible medical plans. Starting a term life insurance policy at a young age, when rates are at their lowest, can be a smart, long-term investment.” 

Mabou explains that this is especially important as students look ahead to future milestones like careers, families and homeownership. 

She also emphasizes the importance of being prepared for everyday risks, especially for students bringing a car to campus. “Parking in well-lit, secure areas, avoiding leaving valuables in plain sight and always locking doors can help prevent some of the most common issues, like theft and parking lot accidents. It’s also important to consider adding emergency road service coverage, which can provide peace of mind and financial protection if a breakdown happens far from home.” 

Before move-in day arrives, Mabou suggests students take a few simple, but important steps to stay organized and protected. “Creating a home inventory, photo, video or written, can make the claims process much easier if something is lost or stolen. Also, keep receipts for new purchases, know your basic health insurance details and identify nearby medical facilities.” 

Mabou says these steps can help save time and stress in an emergency. She also adds that students should be mindful of their surroundings and protect their personal information in shared living spaces. 

Maintaining a good credit score is also important. Mabou says she is often surprised by how much insurance costs can be influenced by this number. Students should take the steps necessary to build and maintain good credit early, not just for loans or credit cards, but for everyday expenses like insurance as well. 

If it were her own college-aged child, Mabou says she wouldn’t leave coverage to chance.  She recommends a renter’s policy to protect personal belongings, along with a personal articles policy for high-value items like laptops. A supplemental health policy can help manage out-of-pocket medical costs and a term life policy locks in affordable rates early and provides long-term security. 

“Finally, make sure your student has easy access to auto insurance information through a mobile app,” Mabou says. “This helps ensure students are prepared, informed and protected, no matter what campus life throws their way.”