Studying abroad comes with excitement, challenges, and essential responsibilities—one of which is understanding your healthcare coverage. If you’re planning to study in the UK from the UAE, one of the most important yet often overlooked steps is figuring out whether you need health insurance while living and studying there.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about UK health coverage, NHS access, and international education advisors’ recommendations—especially for Dubai students studying abroad.
Why Healthcare Matters When You Study in the UK
Moving from the UAE to the UK means adjusting not just to academics, but also to a new healthcare system. Unlike the UAE, where private insurance is standard, the UK runs a public healthcare system called the National Health Service (NHS), which provides most medical services for free or at a subsidized cost. However, your eligibility to access the NHS as an international student depends on your visa and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
So yes—health insurance is required, and it’s often built into your visa process.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): What It Is and Why It Matters
If you are planning to study in the UK for more than 6 months, you are required to pay the IHS when applying for your UK student visa. This gives you access to the NHS, just like a UK citizen.
Key IHS Benefits:
- Free GP (doctor) visits
- Free emergency hospital treatment
- Mental health support
- Maternity services
- Subsidised prescriptions
The IHS is currently £776 per year for students. This amount is paid upfront along with your visa application.
Erudmite, your trusted study abroad consultants in Dubai, can help ensure this fee is properly calculated and submitted when applying through UK university admissions.
Is Additional Health Insurance Still Necessary?
While the IHS gives you NHS access, private health insurance is still recommended for several reasons:
Why You Might Need Additional Coverage:
- Short waiting times for private GP consultations and specialists.
- Coverage for dental and optical care, which is not fully covered by the NHS.
- Emergency repatriation in case you need to return to the UAE for treatment.
- Private hospital treatment, which may not be available under NHS.
- Travel-related health issues—especially if you plan to travel within Europe during your stay.
As student visa consultants Dubai, Erudmite often advises students to consider a hybrid approach—using the NHS for general care and private insurance for added peace of mind.
What About EU Travel While Studying in the UK?
If you’re planning to travel across Europe while studying, private insurance that includes international travel coverage is a smart move. NHS coverage does not extend outside the UK, so insurance that covers travel disruptions, medical emergencies, and hospitalisation abroad is essential.
Erudmite’s one-on-one education counselling ensures students are informed about not just studying, but living securely while in the UK.
Healthcare Support at UK Universities: Example from UWS
Universities like the University of the West of Scotland (UWS) provide excellent student support services, including health and wellbeing centres. They also help international students register with local General Practitioners (GPs) upon arrival.
As one of our top recommended institutions for UAE students, UWS offers:
- Access to on-campus or near-campus health facilities
- Mental health and counselling support
- Student wellbeing advisors for international students
Choosing to Study in the UK at UWS or other top institutions means you’ll be well-supported throughout your journey. Still, combining NHS coverage with optional private insurance remains the ideal approach.
Insurance Tips for UAE Students Studying in the UK
Register with a GP
This is crucial to access non-emergency NHS services. Most universities will help you with this during orientation.
Save Your NHS Number
Once registered, you’ll receive an NHS number. This number is needed to access many healthcare services.
Carry Private Insurance Documents
If you purchase private insurance, always carry a digital or printed copy of your policy and emergency contact info.
Consider Family Medical History
If you have a history of certain conditions (e.g., diabetes, asthma), private insurance may help you get quicker access to specialised care.
Key Services Covered by NHS (After Paying IHS)
| Service | Covered? |
| GP visits | ✅ Yes |
| Emergency room visits | ✅ Yes |
| Hospital stays | ✅ Yes |
| Specialist treatment | ✅ Sometimes, with GP referral |
| Dental care | ❌ Not fully covered |
| Eye exams and glasses | ❌ Not fully covered |
| Mental health services | ✅ Yes |
| Prescriptions | 🟡 Partially (standard fee per item) |
How Erudmite Can Help You Secure Health Coverage
Our expert team of higher education consultants UAE not only assist with university admission help Dubai, but also ensure your student journey is safe and compliant from day one. From UK student visa guidance to student career planning Dubai, Erudmite provides holistic support.
We’ll walk you through:
- NHS registration
- Private insurance selection
- University medical services
- Emergency procedures
With the help of our best education consultants Dubai, you can focus on what matters—your studies, experiences, and future career.
Final Call to Action
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by healthcare and visa requirements, don’t worry we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for guidance on how to apply for UK university, want help understanding study abroad programs UAE, or need assistance with health insurance while studying in the UK, Erudmite is here for you.
👉 Book a free consultation with our team now: Schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a secure, well-prepared academic journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need to buy private insurance if I’ve paid the IHS?
Not necessarily. The IHS covers NHS services, which are usually sufficient. However, private insurance can be useful for faster appointments, dental, optical, and travel emergencies.
Q2: Is health insurance mandatory for a UK student visa?
Yes, through the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is paid during your visa application. Without it, your visa may not be approved.
Q3: Can I use NHS services right away after arriving in the UK?
Yes, once you’ve registered with a GP and received your NHS number, you can start using services like any UK resident.
Q4: What if I’m studying in the UK for less than 6 months?
Short-term students are not eligible for NHS through the IHS. In that case, private insurance becomes mandatory for visa approval and safety.
