International Students NHS: What You Need to Know About UK Healthcare

When you’re an international student, a person from outside the UK studying at a UK university. Also known as overseas student, it you’re entitled to use the NHS, the UK’s publicly funded healthcare system. Also known as National Health Service, it for most medical care—but not everything is free. Many international students assume the NHS works like their home country’s system, but that’s not true. If you’re on a course longer than six months, you pay the Immigration Health Surcharge when you apply for your visa. That fee gives you access to most NHS services at the same cost as UK residents: free at the point of use. But if you’re here for less than six months, you don’t pay the surcharge—and you won’t get free NHS care either. You’ll need private insurance.

Once you’re registered, you can see a GP, a general practitioner who acts as your first point of contact for health issues. Also known as family doctor, it for everything from colds to mental health support. You need to register with a local practice near your uni or accommodation. Don’t wait until you’re sick—do it as soon as you arrive. Some students think walk-in centres are better, but GPs keep your records and can refer you to specialists. For dental care, the NHS has fixed price bands: Band 1 (£26.80) covers check-ups, Band 2 (£73.50) covers fillings, and Band 3 (£319.10) covers crowns or dentures. Not all dentists take NHS patients, so check before booking. Sexual health services, STI testing, and contraception are free for everyone, including international students. You don’t need to show your visa or passport. Just walk in or book online through your uni’s health service.

You’ll also find that mental health support, physiotherapy, and emergency care are covered—but prescription charges apply in England unless you qualify for an exemption. Students under 19 in full-time education, or those on low income with proof, can get free prescriptions. If you’re over 19 and not on benefits, you’ll pay £9.90 per item. Many students don’t know they can apply for an NHS Low Income Scheme to reduce costs. And if you’re worried about language barriers, most GP surgeries have interpreters or translation services. Don’t let fear stop you from getting help. The NHS is there for you, but only if you know how to use it. Below, you’ll find real guides on dental costs, where to go for urgent care, how to manage mental health on campus, and how to avoid common mistakes that cost students time, money, and peace of mind.