By: Karen Rimmer, Head of Distribution at PSG Insure

As university students across the country prepare for the 2025 academic year to kick off, tuition fees, living expenses, and study materials are likely top of mind. However, Karen Rimmer, Head of Distribution at PSG Insure, says short-term insurance for students and their families should not be overlooked.

“When you’re a varsity student, you rely heavily on your belongings for both academic and personal use, so it’s critical to make sure everything is properly covered,” Rimmer explains. “From laptops and smartphones to bicycles and vehicles, these high-value items are essential for day-to-day student life, but they are also at significant risk of theft, damage, or loss.”

Rimmer advises students and their parents to double check that their policies extend to include Sasria cover on contents and motor vehicles. “Sasria provides cover specifically against losses caused by riots, strikes, public disorder, etc.” she explains. “It complements standard insurance policies by covering risks typically excluded from traditional insurance.”

It’s equally important to understand any other policy exclusions, such as damages caused by negligence or theft from unsecured locations, she notes. “While students may be covered by their parents’ personal insurance it might not cover all the necessary risks. Understanding the nuances of policy inclusions and exclusions will help to avoid out-of-pocket expenses. Working with a short-term insurance adviser will help to understand what is covered, and what isn’t.”

Getting around

For students with vehicles, Rimmer strongly recommends comprehensive car insurance. “This type of cover will protect your car against theft and accidents.”

Many students use a family car when they move to university. This would mean that the regular driver would change. If the car may have been previously insured in another area, such as if a student is studying in another province, the risk could be different, impacting the cover on a policy. Parking may no longer be in a locked garage either. “These kinds of updates are essential to communicate to your adviser so that cover can be amended accordingly.”

Bicycles vary significantly in value and care should be taken to ensure that these are covered for the correct amount and that policy requirements to keep cover active are adhered to.

Studying bound

Personal items such as clothing and textbooks can be covered under the contents section of a parent’s policy, provided that the student’s address is updated. “This can be a cost-effective way to ensure personal property is protected while at university,” says Rimmer.

It’s worth noting that structural damages, such as fire or flood risks, are typically the university’s responsibility. For students living in off-campus accommodation, the insurance requirements change depending on ownership. “Structural and contents insurance may apply to privately-owned flats, while contents-only insurance is sufficient for rented properties,” says Rimmer.

While insurance might not seem like the most exciting financial priority, it provides invaluable protection for students and their parents, particularly in the face of unforeseen disruptions.

“University life should focus on learning and growth, not worrying about theft, accidents, or unpredictable events. If you’re unsure about any of the above, or have additional queries, an adviser can certainly assist,” Rimmer concludes.