All students are advised to register with a doctor. It is a good idea to register when you arrive at university rather than waiting until you feel unwell.
All students should register with a GP (doctor) when they arrive at university. Do not wait until you become unwell. UKCISA recommends registering with a GP when you arrive in the UK, and the NHS recommends students register with a GP near their university as soon as possible.
Read more about healthcare in the UK
- What healthcare can I access as an international student?
- What if I am studying a pre-sessional English course?
- How do I register with a GP?
- Where can I find more information?
What healthcare can I access as an international student?
The healthcare available to you can depend on the length of your course and your circumstances.
If your course is 6 months or less
- Free healthcare is not available. You are advised to arrange health insurance for the length of your course.
- Your home country may have a reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK. Contact your embassy for more information.
For more information about healthcare and your entitlement to NHS treatment, see UKCISA's healthcare guidance.
If your course is more than 6 months
- You may be entitled to NHS healthcare while studying in the UK.
- Find out more about your healthcare entitlement using UKCISA's healthcare guidance.
What if I am studying a pre-sessional English course?
If you are studying a pre-sessional English course on campus, you can register with the University Medical Centre if:
- you live in University accommodation or in Hatfiel
- you have an offer for a follow-on programme lasting more than 6 months.
How do I register with a GP?
You should register with a GP when you arrive at university so you can access healthcare when you need it.
You can:
- register with the University Medical Centre on campus
- find and register with another local GP surgery.
Where can I find more information?
For detailed information about healthcare in the UK, including NHS treatment and healthcare for international students, visit the UKCISA healthcare guidance.