Introduction
For international students planning to study in the United Kingdom, navigating the visa process involves more than just paperwork. One key financial requirement is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) , a fee that ensures access to healthcare through the National Health Service (NHS).
This article breaks down what the IHS is, how much it costs, and why it is essential to factor it into your study abroad budget.
1. What Is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)?
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a mandatory fee required from individuals applying for a UK visa that lasts more than six months. For international students, the IHS provides access to the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS), allowing them to receive medical care throughout their period of study.
2. IHS Cost Breakdown for International Students
The standard IHS fee for students is £776 per year.
The fee is paid in full at the time of visa application.
The total amount is calculated based on the length of your visa, not just your academic program.
Example: A two-year master’s program will require a surcharge of £776 x 2 = £1,552.
3. What Healthcare Services Are Covered by IHS?
Students who pay the IHS gain access to most NHS services, including:
- Consultations with General Practitioners (GPs)
- Emergency treatment and hospital care
- Mental health support
- Prescriptions ( sometimes with a small additional charge)
Note: Services such as dental, optical care, and some medications may require additional payment or private coverage.
4. When and How Is the IHS Paid?
Payment of the IHS is integrated into the UK visa application process.
Applicants are prompted to pay the IHS on the UK government visa application portal (gov.uk), after which they receive a unique reference number. This reference number must be included in the visa application submission.
5. Why It’s Important to Budget for the IHS
Failing to pay the IHS can result in visa rejection. More importantly, it ensures that international students are not financially burdened in the event of illness or injury. Given the high cost of healthcare globally, access to public healthcare through the NHS is a significant benefit of studying in the UK.
6. Related Financial Considerations
The IHS is one of several financial requirements students must prepare for. Others include:
- UK student visa application fees
- Accommodation deposits and rent
- Travel and relocation costs
- Academic materials and living expense
Conclusion
Understanding the Immigration Health Surcharge is a crucial part of planning your study abroad journey and one of many financial considerations students must navigate when applying to the UK. At Global Scholars Connect (GSC), we support students throughout the entire process from budgeting and application support to preparing for life abroad. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or finalizing your visa, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
