NHS for International Students: What You Can Get and How to Use It

When you’re studying in the UK, the NHS, the National Health Service that provides most public healthcare in the UK. Also known as the National Health Service, it’s one of the biggest reasons international students choose to study here. But here’s the thing: not everyone gets the same access. If you’re on a student visa for more than six months, you’ve paid the Immigration Health Surcharge — that’s your ticket to most NHS services. But what does that actually cover? And what’s left out? Many students find out the hard way that dental care, prescriptions, and even some mental health services come with extra costs — or aren’t free at all.

Let’s clear up the confusion. The GP (General Practitioner), your first point of contact for non-emergency health issues in the UK. Also known as family doctor, it is free to register and see — no matter where you’re from. But if you need a prescription, you’ll pay £9.65 per item unless you’re exempt. The same goes for NHS dental care, the system of three fixed-price treatment bands for dental work in England. Also known as NHS dental bands, it isn’t free for international students. Band 1 costs £26.80 for an exam and basic treatment, Band 2 is £73.50 for fillings or root canals, and Band 3 is £319.10 for crowns or dentures. And yes — you still need to find a dentist who accepts NHS patients. Many don’t take new international students because of payment delays.

Then there’s the hidden stuff: sexual health clinics, mental health support, and walk-in centres. These are often free and easy to access, but students rarely know where to go. You can get free STI testing, contraception, and counselling through your university or local NHS clinic — no GP referral needed. But if you wait until you’re in pain or panic, you’ll waste time. The walk-in centre, a walk-in NHS facility for minor injuries and illnesses that don’t need an emergency room. Also known as urgent care centre, it is perfect for sprained ankles, bad colds, or rashes — and you won’t be turned away for not having a GP. But if you go to A&E for something minor, you’ll get a long wait and a warning.

Most students don’t realize the NHS isn’t a single service — it’s a patchwork of rules. Scotland and Wales offer free prescriptions to all students, but England doesn’t. Northern Ireland has different dental fees. Your visa length matters. Your university might offer extra health support you didn’t know about. And if you’re from the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland, you might still need an EHIC or GHIC card — even if you’ve paid the surcharge.

This collection of posts is built for students who’ve been confused, overcharged, or left guessing. You’ll find real guides on how to register with a GP, what dental fees you’ll actually pay, how to get mental health help without waiting months, and how to avoid being billed for services you’re entitled to. No fluff. No jargon. Just what you need to stay healthy, save money, and stop stressing about healthcare in the UK.