Why It's Worth Getting Organised Early
Here's something that's easy to overlook during the excitement of packing: healthcare systems vary quite a bit between countries, and the one you're used to at home may work differently from the one you'll be using abroad.
The good news? Some countries offer international students free or subsidised healthcare. Others have excellent private options at reasonable prices. The key is knowing what's available and getting set up early.
A little preparation in your first week can save you a lot of stress later. That's what this guide is all about.
Before You Leave Home
A bit of preparation before you fly can make a big difference. Most of this only takes an afternoon, and you'll be glad you did it.
Your Pre-Departure Checklist
- • Get a full check-up before you go (dental, eyes, any ongoing conditions). It's usually cheaper and easier at home.
- • Stock up on prescriptions and bring at least 3 months' supply with a doctor's letter explaining what they are and why you need them.
- • Check vaccination requirements for your destination country or university (meningitis, hepatitis B, etc.).
- • Carry a medical summary with your allergies, blood type, conditions, and current medications. Keep a digital copy too.
- • Check if your home insurance covers you abroad. Most domestic policies don't cover overseas stays, or only for short trips.
Understanding Health Insurance
Insurance is one of those things that's easy to put off, but it's worth taking the time to understand your options. The insurance your university recommends and the cover you actually need may be different, so it's good to compare.
🏫 University-Provided Insurance
Many universities include basic health coverage in your fees or offer a plan you can opt into. It's worth reading the details, as these sometimes have lower caps or limited mental health, dental, and vision cover.
🌍 International Student Insurance
Companies like Allianz Care, BUPA Global, and Cigna offer plans specifically for international students. These tend to be more comprehensive. We'd recommend comparing at least 3 providers to find the right fit.
🏥 National Health Systems
In countries like the UK (NHS), Australia (OSHC requirement), and many EU nations, international students can access the public system. You'll usually need to register and may need to pay a surcharge, but it's a great safety net.
Insurance Tips to Keep in Mind
- • Read your policy document so you know exactly what's covered before you need it
- • Check your excess/deductible. Some plans have a £500+ excess per claim, which can be a surprise
- • Look at mental health coverage. Many basic plans exclude it, so it's worth checking
- • Keep your policy active between academic years so you're always covered
Registering for Healthcare
In many countries, you'll need to register with a doctor or health service before you can be seen. The process varies, but our top tip is the same everywhere: do it in your first week, before you need it.
🇮🇪 Ireland: GP Registration Tips
Finding a GP in Ireland can take a bit of persistence, especially in cities like Dublin, Cork, and Galway where demand is high. Here's what will help:
- • Private medical insurance is a visa condition. All non-EEA students studying full time in Ireland must hold private medical insurance covering accident and/or illness, valid from your arrival date through the end of your stay — you'll be asked for it when you register your Irish Residence Permit.
- • GP availability can be limited in busy areas, so it's worth starting your search early. You may need to contact several practices to find one accepting new patients.
- • Non-EU students pay for GP visits, which typically range from €50–€70 per appointment (higher in parts of Dublin, and more again for out-of-hours co-op visits).
- • Your university health centre is often the easiest option. Most Irish universities have on-campus health services with reduced rates or fees included in your student levy.
- • For urgent issues, out-of-hours GP co-ops like D-Doc, SouthDoc, and WestDoc are there to help when your regular GP isn't available.
- • A&E visits without a GP referral cost €100 (waived if admitted). For non-emergency issues, try your GP or an out-of-hours service first.
🇬🇧 UK: GP Registration Tips
Registering with a GP in the UK takes a bit of effort, but once you're in, you'll have access to the NHS for the duration of your studies.
- • You've already paid for the NHS. Students, their dependants and Youth Mobility Scheme holders pay the discounted Immigration Health Surcharge of £776 per person, per year with the visa application — after that, NHS care is free at the point of use apart from prescription, dental and optical charges.
- • Some GP surgeries in popular university cities may have limited capacity, so try a few practices if the first one can't take you.
- • You don't need proof of address or immigration status to register. If a practice says otherwise, you can ask to speak to the practice manager.
- • Appointment availability varies. Many surgeries use same-day booking, while routine appointments may take a couple of weeks. Plan ahead for non-urgent issues.
- • University health centres are a great option. They're set up specifically for students and are usually easier to register with.
- • NHS 111 is there for urgent but non-emergency issues. If you need help outside GP hours, call 111 or use the NHS 111 online service.
Do This in Your First Week (Wherever You Are)
- • Register with a local GP or doctor. Your university health centre can usually point you in the right direction.
- • Bring your student ID, passport, proof of address, and insurance details to your registration appointment.
- • Download any national health apps (the NHS App in the UK, MyGov/Medicare in Australia, etc.).
- • Save the address and number of your nearest hospital and urgent care centre in your phone.
- • Ask about after-hours services so you know who to call outside normal hours.
Seeing a Doctor
Once you're registered, here's a quick guide to how different levels of care typically work.
Routine Issues (Cold, Flu, Minor Injuries)
Book an appointment with your registered GP or visit your university health centre. Wait times vary by country and location.
Urgent But Not Emergency
Many countries have urgent care or walk-in clinics for things that need attention soon but aren't life-threatening. In the UK, look for Urgent Treatment Centres. In the US, search for Urgent Care.
Emergencies
Go to the nearest hospital emergency department or call the local emergency number. In a genuine emergency, don't worry about insurance or payment. Your health comes first, and everything else can be sorted afterwards.
Emergency Care
In a real emergency, always go to hospital or call emergency services. Your health is the priority. Insurance and paperwork can be dealt with later.
Be Prepared, Just in Case
- • Save the local emergency number in your phone. It's not 911 everywhere (EU: 112, UK: 999, Australia: 000, Japan: 119).
- • Know where your nearest A&E or ER is so you don't need to search for it in a stressful moment.
- • In the US, emergency care can be expensive, so make sure your insurance covers emergency services.
- • Keep your insurance card or details on your phone. Some hospitals may ask for this on arrival.
Mental Health Support
Studying abroad is an amazing experience, but it can also be challenging. Culture shock, being away from family, language barriers, and academic pressure are all completely normal things to feel. You're not alone, and support is available.
Where to Get Support
- • University counselling services are usually free and confidential. Many have specific support for international students.
- • Crisis helplines are available 24/7 in most countries. Your university website should list local ones.
- • Online therapy platforms like BetterHelp or local equivalents can provide support in your own language.
- • Student communities are a wonderful source of support. Connecting with other international students who understand what you're going through can make a real difference.
- • Check your insurance as some plans cover therapy sessions. It's worth knowing what you're entitled to.
Managing Prescriptions Abroad
If you take regular medication, a bit of planning goes a long way. Different countries have different rules about what's available and how prescriptions work, so here are some things to keep in mind.
Helpful Things to Know About Medication Abroad
- • Some common medications may be classified differently in other countries. ADHD medication, codeine-based painkillers, and some anxiety medications may have restrictions, so check before you travel.
- • Always carry a doctor's letter explaining your medication, dosage, and medical need (in English, and ideally translated).
- • Know the generic name of your medication, not just the brand, as brand names differ between countries.
- • Plan ahead for refills as you may need to see a local doctor first, which can take some time to arrange.
Country-Specific Tips
Every country handles international student healthcare a little differently. Here are the key things to know for the most popular study destinations.
🇮🇪 Ireland
GP availability is limited in some areas, particularly in Dublin, Cork, Galway, and Limerick. It's worth starting your search early and contacting several practices.
Non-EU students pay for GP visits, typically €50-€100 per appointment (higher in urban areas like Dublin). University health centres often offer reduced rates or include care in your student levy.
A&E visits without a GP referral cost €100 (waived if admitted). For non-emergency issues, out-of-hours GP co-ops like D-Doc, SouthDoc, and WestDoc are really helpful alternatives.
Prescriptions: There is no automatic cap on costs for non-medical-card holders, so it's worth budgeting if you take regular medication.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): As of 2024, the IHS costs £776 per year, paid as part of your visa application. This gives you full access to the NHS during your studies.
GP availability varies by area. Some surgeries in popular university cities have limited capacity, but university health centres are usually a reliable option for students.
Prescriptions: £9.90 per item in England (free in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland). If you take regular medication, a Prescription Prepayment Certificate caps costs at ~£31/quarter.
Dental care: Finding an NHS dentist as a new patient can be difficult. Consider getting a dental check-up before you arrive, or budget for private care.
🇺🇸 United States
Healthcare is insurance-dependent. Most universities require you to have coverage, either their plan or proof of equivalent insurance. Always check if a provider is "in-network" before visiting to keep costs manageable.
🇦🇺 Australia
International students must purchase Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their visa. This covers GP visits, hospital treatment, and some prescriptions. Compare providers like Medibank, Allianz, and Bupa to find the best value.
🇩🇪 Germany
Health insurance is mandatory for all students. Under 30, you can join a public plan (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung) for about €110/month, which covers almost everything. Register as soon as you enrol.
🇨🇦 Canada
Coverage varies by province. Some provinces (like BC and Alberta) include international students in their provincial health plan after a waiting period. Others (like Ontario) don't, so you'll need private insurance through your university.
We're here to help you find your feet 💚
Gewardz Health offers affordable health membership designed for international students, workers, and families. Get access to GP consultations, prescriptions, and health support while you settle into your new country.
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