What exactly are you entitled to?

It’s important to understand what healthcare services you’re entitled to as a student and how to access them. Whether you’re a UK resident or an international student, healthcare is a vital part of ensuring your wellbeing throughout your studies. Here’s a breakdown of the key healthcare information you need to know.

The National Health Service (NHS)

The NHS provides healthcare services to UK residents, and many of these services are free at the point of use. As a uni student, you’re entitled to access NHS services, including:

• General Practitioner (GP) services: Your GP is your first point of contact for non-emergency medical issues. It’s important to register with a GP as soon as you arrive. This will ensure that you can get medical help when you need it, from routine check-ups to referrals to specialists.
• Walk-in centres and minor injury units: These centres offer advice and treatment for minor illnesses and injuries that don’t require a visit to A&E (Accident & Emergency), such as minor cuts, infections, or rashes.
• Accident & Emergency (A&E): A&E departments are for serious and life-threatening emergencies, such as severe chest pain, head injuries, or breathing difficulties. A&E services are free under the NHS.
• Prescription costs: In England, students will need to pay for prescriptions. However, students with a low income may be eligible for help with these costs through the NHS Low Income Scheme (more information below).

What if I'm an international student?

If you’re an international student studying in the UK for more than six months, you’re entitled to access NHS services just like UK residents. This includes GP services, emergency care, and mental health support.

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): International students are required to pay the IHS as part of their visa application. This allows you to access NHS services without paying additional fees for most treatments.
• European Union (EU) students: If you’re from an EU country and have an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) or GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card), you can access NHS services during your studies. However, if you’re studying for more than six months, you’ll need to pay the IHS as well.

Mental health services

Mental health is just as important as physical health, and uni can be stressful at times for many students. You can access mental health services through the NHS, your university, or local support groups.

• GP referrals: If you’re struggling with your mental health, your GP can refer you to counselling or other mental health services.
• LSE support: We offer free support services for all students. It’s a good idea to check what mental health support is available on campus, including counselling, drop-in sessions, or group activities.
• NHS mental health support: The NHS also offers talking therapies, which include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), counselling, and other forms of support. You can access these services by contacting your GP.

Dental care

NHS dental care is available to students, though there are charges for most treatments. However, the costs are significantly lower than private dental care. Routine check-ups, fillings, and other treatments are covered, but you’ll need to register with an NHS dentist, which can be long a process if you are not already registered.

Sexual health services

Sexual health services, including contraception, sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, and advice, are free on the NHS. These services can be accessed through your GP, local sexual health clinics, or walk-in centres.

• Contraception and advice: The NHS provides free contraception, including condoms, the pill, and long-term options like the contraceptive implant. Sexual health clinics can also provide advice on sexual health and contraception.
• STI testing: Regular STI testing is important, especially if you’re sexually active with new or multiple partners. Testing is free, confidential, and available at sexual health clinics.

Eye care

Eye tests aren’t free for students in England unless you qualify for the NHS Low Income Scheme or have certain medical conditions. However, many opticians offer discounts for students on eye tests and glasses.

Emergency services

If you ever find yourself in a medical emergency, you can call 999 for an ambulance. You can also call 111 for non-emergency medical advice and guidance on where to go for treatment if you're unsure.

NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS)

If you’re struggling with healthcare costs, you may be eligible for financial help through the NHS Low Income Scheme. This scheme can help cover the costs of prescriptions, dental care, eye tests, and even travel to medical appointments. You can apply by completing a form, available online or from your GP surgery.

Your health should always come first and thankfully in the UK, you are entitled to lots of free services - make the most of them!