Study in the UK

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for students

Most students on a UK Student visa pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of the visa application. It is a payment to the government that gives you access to the NHS on broadly the same terms as a UK resident. It is not private insurance.

£776 / year
Student rate on gov.uk (October 2026)
Paid up front
For the whole visa period, when you apply
NHS
Not a private policy; some costs still apply

How it works

You pay the surcharge online during the visa application, calculated for the length of your visa. Courses that run for part of a year are counted in whole or half years, so check the calculator on gov.uk for your own dates. If your visa application is refused, the surcharge is refunded.

What it covers

Once your visa is granted you can use NHS services such as GP appointments and hospital care without further charge for most treatment. Some things still cost money, for example prescriptions in England, and most dental and optical care. Some students also buy travel or private cover for things the NHS does not provide.

Who does not pay

Some groups are exempt, and the rules on exemptions change. Check gov.uk and your university’s international office to see whether you qualify.

Check the current amount

The student rate quoted here was confirmed on gov.uk in October 2026. The surcharge has been raised before, so check gov.uk before you apply.

Frequently asked questions

Is the healthcare surcharge compulsory for international students?
Most students applying for a UK Student visa must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of the application. Some groups are exempt, so check gov.uk.
How much is the surcharge for students?
The student rate on gov.uk in October 2026 is £776 per year of the visa, paid up front for the whole visa period. Check gov.uk for the current rate before you apply.
Is it the same as private health insurance?
No. It is a payment to the government that gives you access to NHS care. It does not replace travel insurance or cover things the NHS does not provide.
Do I still pay for some treatment?
Often yes: charges can apply for example to prescriptions in England and to most dental and optical care.
What if my visa is refused?
If your visa application is refused, the surcharge is normally refunded. Keep the refund details gov.uk gives you.

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This guide is general information, not immigration advice. Rules, fees and funds amounts change; always check gov.uk and your university’s international office before you apply. This site is independent and is not affiliated with gov.uk, UCAS or the Office for Students.