Experience student life

Healthcare

Experience student life

Healthcare

Students sharing knowledge

With one of the best healthcare systems in in the world and low crime rates, studying in the UK is safe and secure.

The UK has a national health system called the National Health Service (better known as NHS), and as an international student, you may qualify to receive benefits. If you have a Tier 4 student visa and are studying for six months or longer, you have access to NHS. Otherwise, you will need to look into private insurance.

Health

The UK’s NHS (National Health Service) is one of the world’s best healthcare systems, offering safe and modern treatment.

International students do not need private medical insurance when studying in the UK.

If you need a visa to study in the UK, it costs just small fees per year to gain access to the NHS. You pay this fee during your visa application and it covers free medical treatment (including emergency or hospital care, should you need it) and reduced price dental care at an NHS dentist.

If you are from the European Economic Area, make sure you get a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before coming to the UK so that you can access NHS treatment. Visit the European Commission’s website for more information.

It is a good idea to register with a GP (general practitioner) , a doctor who deals with most general health problems, shortly after you arrive in the UK. Most GP surgeries offer patients a choice of whether they see a male or female doctor.

Welfare

UK universities and colleges take student welfare seriously. If you feel stressed or have any problems, the best thing to do is to share it. You can talk to:

  •  your tutor, especially if you have concerns about your course or exams
  • the student welfare officer or, if there is one, international student officer
  • someone at your students’ union, which can provide general welfare support and often has officers who can help with women’s, disability or LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) issues. Find out more about Students’ Unions .

Safety

The UK is one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and a trustworthy police force. Many institutions have their own security services who patrol campuses. Your institution will usually provide you with information on staying safe on campus.

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