As an international student studying in the United Kingdom, it is essential to prioritise your mental and physical health. UK student healthcare system ensures that you stay safe and healthy while studying there. Having one of the world's best and most advanced healthcare systems makes UK such a popular choice of higher education among overseas students. Read on to know more about UK healthcare for international students.

The National Health System (NHS) is a world-class healthcare system in the UK that offers first-class, safe, and modern medical treatment and support to all legal residents, regardless of nationality, visa status, tax or insurance contributions. International students studying in the UK can also benefit from the NHS, just like British citizens.

NHS numbers are unique to each individual and are used by medical providers for identification and recordkeeping. You do not need an NHS number to book a doctor’s appointment or to access NHS services. However, as soon as you arrive in the United Kingdom, you must register with a local General Practitioner (GP) clinic. This is the first place you need to go for medical treatment or consultation.

No matter where you travel, having health insurance is always a good idea. Most visa applications in the UK and other countries require proof of health insurance. If you want to study abroad in the UK, you'll need to either sign up for the National Health Service (NHS) or get private health insurance. Health insurance ensures you won't have to worry about unexpected medical costs while away from your home country and family.

As a student in the UK, you are automatically entitled to healthcare through the National Health Service (NHS). There is no need to take out private medical insurance unless your course is less than six months long.

However, you may also take private healthcare insurance as an additional measure. This is a personal decision and depends on whether you wish to be covered for other health-related costs not covered by NHS. Alternatively, if you already have medical insurance in your home country, you might be able to extend this to cover your time in the UK.

There are many benefits to having health insurance, including access to high-quality medical care, peace of mind in case of an emergency, and protection from expensive medical bills. Health insurance is integral to staying healthy and happy while living in the UK.

If you're planning to study in the UK for six months or longer, you'll need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your visa application fees. The IHS helps fund the UK healthcare system and gives you access to free healthcare while you're living in the UK. Different international students have to pay different visa fees. For example, those studying for six months or less only have to pay £235, while those studying longer have to pay £470 per year. If you apply for a dependent visa, your family member will also have to pay this surcharge.

Any international student studying in UK, you will need to have health insurance cover for the duration of their studies. This also applies to your family members or people accompanying you. 

International students studying in the UK for six months or more are entitled to free healthcare under the National Health Service (NHS). The NHS provides a wide range of services, including GP visits, hospital treatment and emergency care.

Private healthcare insurance is available for students on shorter courses or those who choose to opt out of the NHS. This can be obtained through your university, college, or private insurer. However, you will have to pay for GP services like dental and optical treatments.