Student Support - Health

The National Health Service (NHS) give 5 health tips for students. Read the whole thing here.

1. Register with a GP

• It's really important that you register with a local GP as soon as you know your term-time address so that you can receive medical treatment when you need it.
• Visit the NHS Find a GP page to find details of your local GP service and information about how to register.

2. Register with a Dentist

• Register with an NHS dentist - you will need to pay a contribution towards the cost of your care but this is generally cheaper than paying for a private dentist.
• Visit the NHS Find a Dentist page to find details of your local dentist and information about how to register.

3. Check your Vaccinations

• As a student you may be eligible for routine vaccinations. Look at the NHS guidance to consider which vaccines you may need.
• NHS advice to students is that you should have the MenACWY vaccine (which protects against serious infections like meningitis) and 2 doses of the MMR vaccine (as there are outbreaks of mumps and measles at universities).
• People aged 16 and over can get a 1st and 2nd dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Find out more on the NHS website.
• You may be eligible for a flu vaccine. Find out more on the NHS website.

4. Get contraception

• Even if you do not plan to be sexually active while studying, it's good to be prepared.
• Contraception and condoms are free for everyone from any GP – it does not have to be your own – or family planning clinic.
• Find your local sexual health service

5. Rest and eat healthy food

• You'll greatly increase your chances of keeping healthy by taking care of yourself.
• Student life may not be renowned for early nights and healthy eating, but getting enough sleep and eating well will mean you have a better chance of staying healthy.
• You'll feel more energetic and be better equipped to cope with studying and exams.
• Find out how to eat well.