The National Health Service (NHS) is the UK’s publicly funded healthcare system. It provides free or low-cost health services to residents — including international students, provided you’ve paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) when applying for your visa.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
When you apply for a Student Visa, the IHS is mandatory.
As of 2025, the cost is:
- £776 per year for students (subject to change)
- Paid upfront for the entire duration of your visa
✅ What the IHS Covers:
- Doctor (GP) visits
- Hospital treatments
- Emergency services
- Mental health care
- Sexual health clinics
- Maternity care
- COVID-19 tests and vaccines
❌ What the IHS Does NOT Cover:
- Dental care
- Eye tests/glasses
- Prescriptions (England only: ~£9.90 per item)
- Cosmetic treatments
Step-by-Step: How to Register with a GP
GP (General Practitioner) clinics are your first point of contact for most non-emergency health needs.
Step 1: Find a GP Near You
Use the official NHS GP Finder:
https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp
Step 2: What You Need to Register
- Your passport and student visa/BRP
- Proof of address (rental agreement, university accommodation letter, utility bill)
Some universities offer on-campus GP services. Check with your student support office.
GP Registration Help at UK Universities
What To Do in a Medical Emergency
In the UK, dial:
- 999 → life-threatening emergency (ambulance, fire, police)
- 111 → urgent medical help or advice when it’s not life-threatening
You can also walk into an NHS Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) for minor injuries or illnesses.
NHS Emergency vs Urgent Care Explained
Accessing Mental Health Support
Mental health is taken seriously in the UK, and services are widely accessible through the NHS and universities.
Options Include:
- University counselling centres (free sessions available)
- NHS Talking Therapies (IAPT) – self-referral in many areas
- Samaritans helpline – 116 123 (24/7, free)
- Your GP – can refer you to local services or specialists
How to Get Free Mental Health Support via NHS
Prescriptions, Dental, and Eye Care: What You’ll Pay
Prescriptions:
- In England, each NHS prescription costs ~£9.90 per item.
- In Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, prescriptions are free.
Dental Care:
- NHS dental treatments aren’t fully free but are subsidised.
- You must register with an NHS dentist and may face wait times.
Eye Care:
- Opticians like Boots or Specsavers offer eye exams and glasses.
- You pay out-of-pocket unless eligible for extra support.
Affordable Dental & Optical Care for Students in the UK
Must-Have Tools: The NHS App
Download the NHS App to:
- Book appointments
- Order repeat prescriptions
- Get health advice
- Access your medical records
- Show COVID vaccine proof
What If You Didn’t Pay the IHS?
If you’re on a short-term visa or visitor visa, you may not be covered by the NHS.
👉 In this case, you’ll need private health insurance. You can still access NHS services, but you may be charged.
Student Health Insurance Options in the UK
Quick Healthcare Checklist for New Students
✅ Paid the IHS? ✔️
✅ Registered with a local GP? ✔️
✅ Downloaded the NHS App? ✔️
✅ Know what to do in an emergency? ✔️
✅ Booked a dental/eye check? Optional
✅ Know your mental health options? ✔️
Final Thoughts from Global Grads
Getting your healthcare sorted is just as important as opening a bank account or finding accommodation. With the NHS, you have world-class healthcare — make sure you know how to use it.
Need help registering with a GP or understanding what to do in an emergency?
👉 Global Grads offers student support to help you get settled.
