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Get healthcare while you study

It’s important to have access to healthcare while you’re studying. Here’s everything you need to know, from registering with a GP to getting help in an emergency.

Registering with a GP

To access healthcare in the UK, you need to register with a local GP (General Practitioner).

Here’s how to do it:

Find a local GP near your term-time address using the NHS Service Finder
Fill out the registration form online or at the GP surgery
Provide ID and proof of address (if asked). International students may also be asked for their visa details

Registering with a GP at Coventry University Medical Centre

If you’re a current Coventry University student and live in a CV1 to CV6 postcode, you can register with the Coventry University Medical Centre.

If you live outside this area, use the NHS website to find a GP near you.

Where to find the medical centre

You’ll find the Coventry University Medical Centre on the 2nd floor of The Hub, via the Jordan Well entrance.

Term time opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8am - 6pm.

After you register

When you’re registered, you can:

Visit the GP at the Medical Centre
Use the Medical Centre’s website for non-urgent requests

How to book an appointment

To book an appointment at the Coventry University Medical Centre you can either:

Log in to Online Services
Call +44 (0)2476 592012 (Let them know you’re a student)
Visit the reception desk at the Medical Centre

If you're too unwell to visit in person, you can ask for a phone consultation or home visit.

Out of hours help

When the Medical Centre is closed, you can:

Visit Engleton House Surgery in Radford
Call +44 (0)2476 592012
Use NHS 111 online or call 111
Visit the NHS Walk-in Centre on Stoney Stanton Road

NHS 111: Non-emergency medical help (24/7)

If you’re not sure where to go or need medical advice quickly, use 111 online or call 111.

NHS 111 can help with things like:

Symptoms of illness or injury
Dental problems
Mental health support
Help with prescriptions or medicines
Ongoing conditions or health concerns

Call 111 if you:

Need advice outside of GP hours
Need help for a child under 5
Have a complex health condition
Have a care plan in place
Need support with end-of-life care

You can find out more at nhs.uk/111

Emergency help: 999 and A&E (24/7)

Only visit Accident & Emergency (A&E) for life-threatening problems such as:

Chest pain or breathing difficulties
Heavy bleeding that won't stop
Severe burns or injuries
Loss of consciousness
Mental health crises including suicidal thoughts

In an emergency, call 999 for an ambulance, police, or fire services.

If you are unwell but it is not an emergency, call 111 for medical advice.

Healthcare FAQ for international students

Can I use the NHS while I study in the UK?

Yes. If your course is six months or longer, you can use the NHS (National Health Service). This includes GP (doctor) appointments, hospital treatment and emergency care.

Do I need to pay to use the NHS?

When you applied for your visa, you may have paid a health surcharge. If so, you can use most NHS services without paying again. This does not cover:

Dental care
Eye tests
Prescriptions (medications)

Can my family use the NHS too?

Yes. If dependents like children or a partner live with you in the UK, they can also use NHS services.

Do I need to register with a doctor (GP)?

Yes. If you’re living away from home during your studies, it’s important to register with a local GP near your term-time address or one recommended by your university. GPs are your main point of contact for most medical needs.

What is a GP?

A GP (General Practitioner) is a local doctor who treats common illnesses and supports your overall health and wellbeing, including mental health. They can also refer you to specialists or hospitals if needed. Many GP surgeries also offer services like vaccinations, contraception, and general health advice.

How do I find and register with a GP?

Use the NHS Find a GP tool to locate GP practices near your address. To register, you’ll need your course details and National Insurance number.

What is a walk-in or urgent care centre?

Walk-in centres treat minor injuries or illnesses. You don’t need to register or make an appointment. These centres are useful if you can’t see your GP or need quick medical attention for non-emergencies.

What is a pharmacy?

Pharmacies (also called chemists) are places where you can buy medicines for common health problems like coughs, colds, or headaches. Pharmacists can also give advice and help you choose the right treatment. Some medicines are available without a prescription.

What is a prescription?

Prescriptions are written by a GP for specific medicines. You collect the medicine at a pharmacy. In England, each prescription currently costs £9.90 (2025). GPs will only prescribe medicine if they think it’s needed.

How can I find out more about UK healthcare as an international student?

Visit the UKCISA website for more information on registering with a doctor and how to use NHS services as an international student in the UK.

What should I take to health appointments?

Bring your e Visa or proof of student status when visiting NHS services to help avoid being charged incorrectly.

Vaccinations explained

Vaccinations protect you from serious illnesses like polio, measles, and meningitis. Thanks to the UK’s national immunisation programme, many dangerous diseases are now rare, but they still exist in other parts of the world. It’s important to make sure you are fully protected.

Routine vaccinations

Please check that you are up to date with all the routine vaccinations recommended by the UK Government’s Department of Health. If you’re not sure, speak to your GP or doctor about catching up.

Information for international students

If you’re coming to study from outside the UK, you must have all the vaccinations recommended by the UK Government. Speak to your doctor about any extra vaccines you may need before travelling. Also check with your local embassy for any legal vaccination requirements.

Important vaccines to know about

MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella)

There have been outbreaks of measles and mumps at UK universities in recent years, especially among students who haven’t had the vaccine.

The MMR vaccine protects you from all three illnesses in one injection. Most people have had two doses as children, but it’s a good idea to check with your GP before starting university.

If you or someone you know catches measles, follow the NHS advice on measles.

To be fully protected, you should have had two doses of the MMR vaccine. If you haven’t had both doses, your GP can help you get vaccinated.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine

Getting both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine gives you the best protection. We encourage all students and staff to get vaccinated as soon as possible, following advice from the World Health Organisation and UK Government.

Meningococcal ACWY (MenACWY) vaccine

Meningitis and septicaemia are rare but serious illnesses. The MenACWY vaccine protects you from these diseases.

Students starting university are at higher risk because they live in halls and meet lots of new people.

It’s important to have had the MenACWY vaccine. If you haven’t had it yet, you can still get it from your GP, but only until your 25th birthday.

Find out how we manage contagious (also known as communicable) diseases.

Useful links

These websites can help you find out more about vaccines and how to get health care while you’re studying in the UK.

NHS advice on COVID-19 vaccines: Find out why the COVID-19 vaccine is important, who should have it and how to get it.
Meningitis Research Foundation: Learn about meningitis, how to protect yourself and what to do if you get sick.
NHS guide to vaccinations: Everything you need to know about vaccines you might need while living in the UK.

UK applicants