Do international students get free NHS treatment?

Yes, once you have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your visa application, you are entitled to use the NHS on the same basis as a UK resident. This covers GP visits, hospital treatment, and most other NHS services. Dental and eye care have separate charges that apply to everyone.

How much is the Immigration Health Surcharge for students?

Students pay a discounted rate of £776 per year. For a 3-year degree, this would be £2,328. The surcharge is paid upfront when you submit your visa application.

Do I need to register with a GP?

Yes. You should register with a GP practice near your university or accommodation as soon as you arrive in the UK. Registration is free and gives you access to GP appointments, referrals, and prescriptions.

Are prescriptions free for students?

In Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, prescriptions are free for everyone. In England, you pay a standard charge per prescription item (currently £9.90) unless you qualify for an exemption, such as being on a low income.

Student Visa NHS Access Guide 2026

As an international student in the UK, you access the NHS through the Immigration Health Surcharge paid with your visa. This covers GP visits, hospital care, and most treatments. This guide explains how to register, what is free, and what still costs money.

The Immigration Health Surcharge

When you apply for your Student visa, you pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of the application. Students pay a discounted rate of £776 per year. This is paid upfront for the entire duration of your visa.

Once paid, you are entitled to NHS treatment on the same basis as a UK resident. You do not need private health insurance to access the NHS, although some students choose to have it for additional cover. For a full breakdown of Student visa costs, including the IHS, see our cost guide.

Registering with a GP

Your first step after arriving in the UK should be to register with a GP (General Practitioner) practice near where you live. To register:

Find a GP practice near your accommodation using the NHS GP finder.
Visit the practice or register online.
Provide your name, address, date of birth, and visa details.

GP practices cannot refuse to register you because of your immigration status, as long as you are living in their catchment area. Your university health centre may also offer GP registration.

What Is Covered

GP appointments: Free (no charge per visit)
Hospital treatment: Free, including A&E, surgery, and specialist care
Mental health services: Free through NHS referral
Maternity care: Free
Sexual health clinics: Free
COVID and flu vaccinations: Free

What Costs Extra

Prescriptions (England only): £9.90 per item. You may qualify for free prescriptions if you are on a low income — apply for an HC2 certificate.
Dental treatment: NHS dental care has separate charges (Band 1: £26.80, Band 2: £73.50, Band 3: £319.10). Finding an NHS dentist can be difficult, and many students use private dentists.
Eye tests and glasses: Eye tests cost around £20-30. You may qualify for free eye tests if you are on a low income.

University Health Services

Most UK universities have their own health and wellbeing services, including:

On-campus GP practice or health centre
Counselling and mental health support
Disability support services

These services are often free and can be a quicker alternative to NHS waiting lists for mental health support. Check your university's website for details. If you are considering council tax exemption or your bank account options, see our related guides.

Emergency Care

If you have a medical emergency, go to the nearest A&E (Accident and Emergency) department or call 999. Emergency treatment is free. For non-emergencies, call 111 for NHS advice.

Next Steps

Register with a GP within the first week of arriving in the UK. Keep your BRP or digital visa status accessible in case you need to show it at medical appointments.

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