Considering studying in the UK? You’re in good company. Annually, many international students select the UK for its top-notch education, diverse campuses, and vibrant culture. While organizing your visa and dreaming of life in London, Edinburgh, or Manchester, don’t forget health insurance. It’s not merely advisable; it’s often essential. Even when not mandatory, it can prevent significant stress and financial strain. Let’s explore key health insurance options for international students in the UK, ranging from public access via the NHS to premium private providers offering superior services.
1. National Health Service (NHS) via Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
What Is It?
If you’re staying in the UK for more than six months, you’re required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your student visa application. This gives you full access to the NHS, the UK’s national health system.
What You Get:
- Free GP visits
- Hospital treatments
- Mental health care
- Emergency services
- COVID-19 related care
Yes, really—most essential care is free at the point of use.
Cost:
- £470 per year (for students)
- Dependents must pay too
This one-time fee is paid when applying for your Tier 4 (Student) visa.
Limitations:
- Prescriptions cost extra (around £9.90 per item)
- Dental and optical services are mostly not covered
- Short-term students (under 6 months) don’t qualify
Still, for long-term students, this is the gold standard in affordability and coverage.
2. Cigna Global
Why It’s Great:
Cigna is a trusted global provider with customizable options. You can choose just the basics or add extras like vision, dental, and mental health services.
It’s ideal for students who want private healthcare access without the long NHS wait times.
Key Features:
- In-patient & out-patient care
- Dental and vision (optional)
- Emergency evacuation
- Telehealth and mental health support
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Average Cost:
- About £104/month (varies by plan and coverage)
If you’re planning to travel during breaks, this international plan has you covered beyond the UK too.
3. IMG Global (International Medical Group)
Best For Flexibility
IMG specializes in student-focused insurance. With plans covering up to $1 million annually, it’s suited to those who want extensive protection at a reasonable price.
Key Benefits:
- Mental health services
- Telemedicine access
- Coverage for sports injuries (which many student policies exclude)
- Routine and emergency medical care
Cost:
- Depends on your age, location, and study duration. But typically lower than many premium options.
4. Now Health International
Excellent for Globally Mobile Students
Studying in the UK but planning to travel often—or already attending a multinational program across countries? Now Health could be your best bet.
Coverage:
- 190+ countries
- Maternity, dental, optical, routine exams
- Even pre-existing conditions depending on the plan
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Price:
- Starts around $397/month for comprehensive plans
It’s pricey, but the breadth of service makes it worthwhile if you’re constantly on the go.
5. William Russell
Personalized Protection
William Russell offers private international insurance tailored for students, expats, and mobile young adults.
Highlights:
- Accident cover
- Evacuation and repatriation
- Optional vision and dental
- Global support network
It’s ideal if you’re traveling, changing campuses, or attending Erasmus programs.
6. ISO International Student Health Insurance
Budget-Friendly, Student-Focused
ISO specializes in international student insurance. It’s an excellent supplement to NHS coverage or a standalone option for short-term stays.
Advantages:
- Fast signup process
- Emergency and hospital care
- Mental health support
- Affordable pricing
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If you’re only in the UK for a semester or want quicker access to private doctors, ISO offers a simple and efficient solution.
7. Allianz Worldwide
High-End Peace of Mind
Allianz offers one of the most premium insurance options on the list. It comes with a steep cost but also with wide-ranging benefits.
Features:
- High annual coverage caps
- Dental, transplants, alternative medicine
- Worldwide emergency evacuation
- Coverage for serious chronic conditions
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Average Cost:
- As high as £642/month for premium plans
This is best for students who need robust coverage or whose family can invest in top-tier private care.
8. Bupa Global
The Luxury Choice
Bupa is a household name in the UK. Their global student plans are known for a large network of clinics, no-hassle claims, and premium services.
Services Include:
- Comprehensive hospital access
- Mental health and wellness programs
- Vision and dental (via add-ons)
- Emergency evacuation and repatriation
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Perfect for students looking for top-level comfort and flexibility.
9. AXA Global Healthcare
Reliable and Flexible
AXA combines international insurance with the customer service experience of a UK-native brand.
Perks:
- Direct billing with hospitals and clinics
- Customizable coverage
- Strong customer support, including emergency translation
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They’re a good middle ground between affordability and quality.
10. Aviva / The Exeter / Vitality
UK-Based Excellence
These UK insurance companies provide specialized private medical insurance for residents and international students.
Standout Features:
- Custom health plans
- Rehabilitation services
- Chronic illness coverage
- Short-term and long-term flexibility
They’re particularly helpful for filling gaps in NHS coverage or offering faster access to private healthcare.
What International Students Need to Know
Before you choose a plan, let’s cover the essentials:
✅ Long-Term Courses (Over 6 Months)
- You must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
- This gives you full access to the NHS
- No exclusions for pre-existing conditions
- You’ll still pay small fees for prescriptions, dental, and vision
✅ Short-Term Courses (Under 6 Months)
- You won’t qualify for NHS through IHS
- You’ll need private health insurance
- Check if your visa requires proof of private insurance
✅ When Private Insurance Makes Sense
- Want faster care and to skip NHS waitlists?
- Need comprehensive dental, optical, or mental health?
- Planning to travel outside the UK during holidays?
- Have specific health concerns or chronic conditions?
If yes, go private.
Comparison Table: Top Health Insurance for International Students in the UK
| Provider | NHS/IHS | Private Care | Dental/Vision | Emergency/Evac | Mental Health | Typical Cost | Notes |
| NHS via IHS | Yes | Limited | No | Yes | Yes | £470/year | Best for long-term students, full essential care |
| Cigna Global | Optional | Yes | Yes (add-on) | Yes | Yes | ~£104/month | Flexible, highly customizable |
| IMG Global | Optional | Yes | Yes (add-on) | Yes | Yes | Varies | Great coverage and student-friendly |
| Now Health Intl | Optional | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | ~£397/month | Ideal for mobile, multi-country students |
| William Russell | Optional | Yes | Yes (add-on) | Yes | Yes | Varies | Good for Erasmus and international mobility |
| ISO Student Insurance | Optional | Yes | Limited | Yes | Yes | Low-cost | Great for short-term students |
| Allianz Worldwide | Optional | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | ~£642/month | Premium, best for extensive coverage |
| Bupa Global | Optional | Yes | Yes (add-on) | Yes | Yes | Premium | Broad network, excellent for long-stayers |
| AXA Global Healthcare | Optional | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Varies | UK brand with great service |
| Aviva / Exeter / Vitality | Optional | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Varies | Tailored UK private plans |
Final Thoughts
For international students in the UK, the NHS through the IHS fee is a practical and cost-effective healthcare solution. It provides comprehensive care without excluding pre-existing conditions. However, it has drawbacks like long wait times and limited services, such as dental and mental health therapy. This is where private insurance becomes valuable. If you’re on a short course or seek additional security, companies like Cigna, IMG, Allianz, William Russell, and Bupa offer robust international coverage tailored to fit your academic needs.
Evaluate what’s covered, what’s not, and if a plan aligns with visa and university needs. Consider your living situation, travel frequency, and preferred service level. A solid health insurance plan offers more than just hospital coverage; it provides peace of mind, allowing you to concentrate on your purpose in the UK—education, personal growth, and exploration.
📚 References :
- Allianz Partners. (2025). Student international health insurance plans. Retrieved from https://www.allianzcare.com
- Aviva. (2025). Health insurance options for international students. Retrieved from https://www.aviva.co.uk
- AXA Global Healthcare. (2025). Student health plans. Retrieved from https://www.axaglobalhealthcare.com
- Bupa Global. (2025). International health insurance for students. Retrieved from https://www.bupaglobal.com
- Cigna Global. (2025). Health insurance for international students. Retrieved from https://www.cignaglobal.com
- GOV.UK. (2025). Pay for UK healthcare as part of your immigration application. Retrieved from https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application
- IMG Global. (2025). International student insurance plans. Retrieved from https://www.imglobal.com
- ISO Insurance. (2025). International student health insurance. Retrieved from https://www.isoa.org
- National Health Service (NHS). (2025). How to access NHS services. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk
- Now Health International. (2025). Global medical insurance for students. Retrieved from https://www.now-health.com
- The Exeter. (2025). Private medical insurance for UK residents and students. Retrieved from https://www.the-exeter.com
- Vitality. (2025). Private health cover for international students. Retrieved from https://www.vitality.co.uk
- William Russell. (2025). Student and expat health insurance. Retrieved from https://www.william-russell.com
