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Healthcare Costs

Free prescriptions

Students in full-time education who are under the age of 19 are automatically entitled to full help with health costs (except travel costs, in which case they can apply to the Low Income Scheme).

Students aged 19 and over entering higher education generally have access to their own resources and are no longer classed as dependent children. 

They can apply to the Low Income Scheme, using form HC1, the same as all other adults to see if they qualify for help.  Application forms are available from the Students’ Union or by clicking here.

You do not need to fill in an HC1 if you, or your partner if you have one, are:

  • getting Income Support
  • getting Universal Credit (in certain circumstances - please see here) getting income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
  • getting income-related Employment and Support Allowance
  • getting Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
  • named on, or entitled to, an NHS Tax Credit Exemption Certificate
  • as the benefit or Tax Credits you or your partner get already entitles you to full help with health costs.

Also, you cannot claim any help through the NHS Low Income Scheme if you have more than:

  • £16,000 in savings, investments or property (not counting the place where you live); or
  • £23,250 in savings, investments or property if you live permananently in a care home (£24,000 if you live in Wales)

 

Prescription prepayment certificates (PPC)

Prescription prepayment certificates (PPC) are available in England and they can save you money.

NHS prescription costs (correct as of 26/11/2015)

The current prescription charge is £8.20 per item (£16.40 per pair of elastic hosiery).A three monthly PPC is £29.10 and could save you money if you need more than three prescribed items in three months.  A 12-month certificate is £104.00 and could save you money if you need more than 12 prescribed items in a year.PPCs are available by 10 monthly direct debit instalment payments. The prescription prepayment certificates allow anyone to obtain all the prescriptions they need for £2 per week. Find out more about the prescription prepayment certificate here. 

 

International students

For more information on healthcare costs for international students please click here.