Your Guide to Health & Support Services in the UK
Topics covered
- Published: 17 July 2025
- Updated: 16 July 2025
Studying in the UK is an exciting chapter, and taking care of your health and support system makes it even better. This guide equips you with the information you need to access healthcare, emotional support, insurance, and emergency services while living and studying in the UK.
Table of contents
UK Health & Support System
Accessing NHS & Registering with a GP
Student Health Services on Campus
Mental Health & Emotional Wellbeing
Insurance & Healthcare Costs
Emergency Help & Contacts
FAQs
UK Health & Support System
Moving to study in the UK is a crucial step for your future—but it's also important to know how to take care of your health. The UK’s healthcare system, known as the NHS (National Health Service), offers many services to keep you healthy — most of them are free!
Whether it’s a check-up or a health concern, the NHS is there for you. There are also many services for your mental wellbeing.
Accessing NHS & Registering with a GP
One of the first things you should do after settling in is register with a GP (General Practitioner) near your new home. Your GP is your go-to doctor for most health needs — from prescriptions and referrals to everyday illnesses and mental health concerns.
How to Register with a GP
Registering is quick, free, and essential. You will typically need to:
Gather your documents:
Passport or BRP
Proof of UK address (tenancy agreement, utility bill, or university letter)
IHS number
(Optional) Medical history or vaccination records
Find a local GP:
Use the NHS GP Finder to locate GP surgeries in your area. Alternatively, your university’s health centre or student support services can recommend trusted clinics used to help international students.
Contact the surgery:
Visit the surgery website or call to see if they are accepting new patients. Some allow online registration, others might ask you to visit in person or call during specific hours.
Complete registration:
Fill in the GMS1 registration form (available online or at the surgery). Submit it with your documents. Some surgeries may also invite you for a new patient health check after registering—it is usually a short appointment to go over your general health.
Get Your NHS Number
Once registered, you will receive an NHS number by post or email. This number is essential for accessing NHS services, booking appointments, or viewing your health records online.
Where to Register?
University Health Centre (Recommended)
Many UK universities have on-campus or affiliated GP surgeries that are experienced in dealing with international students.
Check your university’s website or ask Student Services about how to register.
These centres often simplify registration and may offer multilingual staff or culturally sensitive care.
Use NHS GP Finder
Enter your UK postcode to find nearby GP surgeries.
Check if they are accepting new patients and follow their instructions for online or in-person registration.
Walk-in Centres or Local Clinics
If you are staying off-campus or far from university, you can also register with a local NHS GP for surgery near your accommodation.
Just make sure to bring the required documents mentioned earlier (passport, proof of address, IHS number, etc.).
Feeling unwell but it is not an emergency?
If you need help, call NHS 111 for free anytime or visit 111.nhs.uk
in serious emergencies, call 999 or head to A&E.
Student Health Services on Campus
Most universities in the UK have their own student health centre or a nearby clinic they work with. These centres are super helpful and usually offer GP appointments, mental health support, sexual health advice, and even vaccinations.
Try to register early; you do not want to figure this out when you are already feeling sick! You can also check out any wellbeing programs, workshops, or drop-in sessions your university offers to help you stay healthy and happy.
Mental Health & Emotional Wellbeing
Studying abroad can feel overwhelming at times — and that is completely normal. If you are feeling anxious, stressed, homesick, or just not yourself, support is available.
For many international students, especially those from cultures like Pakistan where family pride and academic expectations run high, the pressure to succeed can feel intense. But here is the truth: looking after your mental health is a strength, not a weakness.
You can access free, confidential support through the NHS via Talking Therapies, or speak to a counsellor at your university. You do not need a referral, and there is no shame in reaching out. Taking care of your mind is just as essential as caring for your body — especially when you are far from home.
Insurance & Healthcare Costs
Good news: after you pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) with your visa, you can use most NHS services for free. That includes GP visits, hospital treatment, and mental health support. However, some things do have small costs—including:
Prescriptions
Dentist visits
Eye tests and glasses
If you would like extra peace of mind, some students also choose to get additional health insurance from a private company to help cover extra services or faster private treatment.
Emergency Help & Contacts
Here is what to do if something urgent comes up:
Call 999 for emergencies (severe injury, chest pain, breathing problems, etc.)
Call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk for urgent but non-life-threatening help
Visit an Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) or A&E at your nearest hospital if you are not sure what you need
Emotional & Mental Health Support
If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or need someone to talk to, help is available — confidentially and free of charge:
Samaritans (116 123) – Free 24/7 emotional support, available any time by phone
University Counselling Services – Most universities offer on-campus or virtual support. [Check your university’s website or student portal for contact info.]
Pakistani Resource Centre – Offers culturally sensitive support, guidance, and referrals 0161 445 0633 | pakistani-resource.org.uk
FAQs
How do Pakistani students access healthcare in the UK?
If you are on a student visa (over 6 months), you will pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) during your visa application. This gives you access to most NHS services for free.
After arrival:
Register with a GP near your home using your passport, BRP/visa, and proof of address.
You will receive an NHS number once you have registered.
For non-emergencies, call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk.
In serious cases, call 999 or visit A&E.
Do I need health insurance while studying in the UK?
Not necessarily. The IHS covers NHS care like GP visits, hospital treatment, and mental health support. However, private insurance is optional if you want:
Faster private care
Extra cover (dental, eye care, physiotherapy)
Insurance for travel outside the UK
Prescriptions and dental/optical services usually carry small extra fees unless you are exempt.
How much do I have to pay for healthcare?
Most NHS services are free because you have already paid for the Immigration Health Surcharge. You may still need to pay for things like prescriptions or dentist visits.
Do I need to bring medical records from back home?
It is helpful to bring any vaccination records or prescriptions, especially if you have a long-term health condition. This can make things easier when registering with a GP.
What if I need help but do not speak perfect English?
The NHS provides translation and interpretation services—just let them know in advance or ask a friend to help at the start.
Can I see a doctor online?
Yes! Some NHS practices offer video consultations. You can also use NHS-approved apps or private online GP services if needed.
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