Study in the UK

If you are moving to the UK to study in 2026 and live with a bleeding disorder, you need to prepare your healthcare and visa requirements well in advance. Here is the updated guidance for international students and carers.

Applying for your Student Visa

You can apply for a Student visa to study in the UK if you are 16 or over and meet the following conditions:

  • You have an unconditional offer for a course with a licensed student sponsor.
  • You have enough money to pay for your course and support yourself. This amount depends on your specific circumstances and where you will study.
  • You can prove you speak, read, write, and understand English to the required level.
  • You have written consent from your parents or guardians if you are 16 or 17.

The Costs of Studying in the UK

The total cost of your education will vary based on several factors:

  • University and Course: Tuition fees vary by institution. Higher-cost courses often include subjects like medicine or law.
  • Location: Living in London or other major cities is more expensive than living in smaller towns.
  • Living Expenses: You will need to budget for housing, food, and travel.
  • Visa Fee: Applying for a Student visa from outside the UK currently costs £490.
  • Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Most students staying for more than six months must pay this fee. It gives you access to the National Health Service (NHS). The current rate for students is £776 per year, which you must pay in full when you apply for your visa.

Accessing the NHS with a Bleeding Disorder

Paying the IHS allows you to use the NHS in the same way as a permanent UK resident. This includes seeing a GP and visiting hospital specialists. While most care is free at the point of use, you still pay for dental check-ups, eye tests, and any prescriptions you pick up from a pharmacy.

If you have not paid the IHS, your free care is limited to Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments. For other services, including inpatient stays or specialist bleeding disorder clinics, you will be charged. These costs can be 150% of the standard NHS rate and may require upfront payment.

Registering with a Doctor

Register with a local General Practitioner (GP) as soon as you arrive. Do not wait until you feel unwell or run out of medication. Your university can help you find a local GP. Registration is free and usually takes about two weeks.

Managing Your Treatment

It is vital to share your medical history with your new GP so they can support you correctly:

  • Bring Documentation: Carry all relevant medical records from your home country. These must be translated into English and should detail your diagnosis, past treatments, and the specific factor concentrates you use.
  • Request a Referral: Ask your GP to refer you urgently to the nearest Haemophilia Comprehensive Care Centre (CCC) or Haemophilia Centre.
  • Supplies from Home: Referrals can take several weeks. Ensure you bring enough treatment from home to cover at least two months of treatment while your UK care is being set up.

Specialised Care and Emergencies

Once you are registered with a Haemophilia Centre, your specialist treatment is free under the NHS, provided you have paid the IHS. The centre will help you create a treatment plan and can arrange for home delivery of your treatment if needed.

In an Emergency

If you have a bleed or a medical emergency before your first specialist appointment, go to the nearest A&E department that is attached to a hospital with a Haemophilia Centre. Tell the staff immediately about your condition and show them your medical documents. They will contact the on-call haematology team to treat you. For life-threatening situations, dial 999 for an ambulance.

Essential Reminders

  • Travel with Treatment: Keep your treatment in your hand luggage and carry a letter from your doctor explaining why you need it.
  • Medical ID: Always wear or carry medical identification that clearly states your bleeding disorder and treatment requirements.
  • Travel Insurance: Even with the IHS, it is wise to have travel insurance. This covers things the NHS does not, such as emergency flights back to your home country. You must declare your bleeding disorder when you buy the policy to ensure you are fully covered.

Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided by Gov.UK and NHS.UK. It is subject to change without notice. It is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or specific requirements. Always check the latest official advice and speak with your healthcare professional before coming to the UK. The Haemophilia Society cannot help with student visas or applications to study in the UK.