Student Health Services in the UK: What You Need to Know

When you’re studying in the UK, student health services, free NHS healthcare available to students registered with a GP. Also known as university health support, it includes everything from seeing a doctor for a cold to getting free contraception or mental health counselling. You don’t need private insurance—just register with a local GP practice, and you’re covered.

Most students don’t realize how much is included. GP registration, the process of signing up with a local NHS doctor’s practice. Also known as registering with a doctor, it’s the first step to accessing prescriptions, referrals, and same-day appointments when you’re sick. International students can do this too—just bring your passport, visa, and proof of address. Once you’re registered, you can book online, order repeat prescriptions without visiting, and even get mental health support through your practice or university counselling.

sexual health services, free STI testing, contraception, and advice available at clinics and university hubs. Also known as sexual health clinics, these services are confidential, no questions asked, and open to everyone regardless of age or status. You don’t need to be embarrassed. Many student unions run free testing events, and walk-in clinics in cities like Manchester, Bristol, and Glasgow offer quick results. Need the pill, an IUD, or an STI test? You can get it the same day.

And it’s not just about getting sick. repeat prescriptions, a system that lets you order ongoing medications like birth control, antidepressants, or asthma inhalers without booking an appointment. Also known as online prescription renewal, this saves you hours every month. Once your GP sets up your repeat meds, you can order them via NHS App, your practice’s website, or even by phone. No more running out mid-exam season.

Student health services also cover dental care, mental health, and even help with chronic conditions like diabetes or IBS. You can’t get everything from your university—some things still need a GP or clinic visit. But knowing the difference between a walk-in centre and your GP? That’s what saves time and stress. Walk-in centres are for urgent stuff like cuts or infections. Your GP handles ongoing care, prescriptions, and referrals.

There’s no magic trick. You just need to register early, save your practice’s number, and use the NHS App. Skip the panic when you’re sick, skip the surprise bills, skip the confusion. The system works if you use it right. And the posts below? They’re packed with real student experiences—how to register as an international student, where to find free contraception on campus, how to order your pills online without awkward conversations, and why skipping dental checkups can cost you more later.