The basics of the UK healthcare system- what you need to know before leaving home
August 18, 2025
Starting a new course is an exciting time for all students, even if a little bit of apprehension creeps in as Welcome Week approaches, the to-do list will usually include shopping for bedding and kitchenware, knowing how to find accommodation and having an idea of what is planned for the start of term.
As an international student, you have the added task of making sure you know how to keep healthy when you are at university, and this means understanding the basics of how the health system works and the difference between the National Health Service (NHS) and private medicine. A significant difference as you will need to pay for the latter!
Where do I go if I’m unwell?
The UK system is unusual from a lot of countries because it is NHS GP (General Practitioner) practices rather than hospitals that you should go to if you are unwell. They are also where you can get advice about sexual health and contraception, or get immunised if you have missed any vaccinations like MenACWY or HPV. GP practices employ a range of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, healthcare assistants and pharmacists.
Everyone can register with a GP and be seen without any need to pay for the consultation (although you should expect to pay for any medicines which are recommended). GP practices do not usually provide dentistry, nor check eyes or provide glasses.
A lot of the time, when you feel unwell, you will not need to visit the GP practice; instead, it may be better to look after yourself at home or get some advice from NHS 111. It is important to use the right NHS service.
How do I access GP services?
As part of the visa process for joining a UK university, most international students will have paid the immigration health surcharge (IHS) and been issued with an IHS number confirming payment. This number is not the same as an NHS number which you will only get after you register at a GP practice, and for this reason you should make contact with a GP practice as soon as you are settled in your new home.
Many universities will have an onsite health centre where the practice staff understand the needs of students. If this is not the case at your university, your Student Services will be able to guide you through the process of registering for a practice which is close to your accommodation, you will probably receive this info in your pre-arrival pack.
Is there anything I need to do before leaving home?
As an international student staying healthy starts before you leave home and this is especially important if you have an existing health condition or are taking medication which you will need to continue when you arrive in the UK.
If you are taking medication prescribed by a doctor, you should arrive in the UK with a 3-month supply. Make sure you understand the regulations about travelling with medication.
Get in touch with Student Services before you leave home if you have questions about healthcare, and get registered with a GP as soon as possible after arrival. Many GP services aren’t open at the weekend or out of office hours and it may take a few weeks to get an appointment, so plan ahead. Remember, it is quick and easy to do online and is free of charge.
For more information on all aspects of life in the UK, visit our Student Advice pages.
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This article was written by Marie Crozier, Health Adviser at University of the Arts London. Marie is a registered nurse with many years’ experience of working at the interface between health and education. She has a particular interest in the health and welfare of international students, is a level 4 safeguarder and a trustee of AEGIS (Association for the Education and Guardianship of International Students).
