Did you know that if you are an international student who is yet to be vaccinated against COVID-19, you may receive the vaccine quicker in the UK than your home country and will be protected when returning home?
Full guidance released by NHS England confirmed that the COVID-19 vaccination is now being offered to everyone aged 18 or over in the UK for free, regardless of their nationality or immigration status.
To help clear up any questions or concerns you may have about studying in the UK, we have compiled a useful list of commonly asked questions and answers about being vaccinated whilst studying here. Learn more below and speak to an SI-UK London consultant to begin your UK study journey.
International Student COVID-19 Vaccine FAQ
Are international students eligible for vaccination in the UK?
The UK is offering the COVID-19 vaccination for free to anyone aged 18 or above regardless of their nationality or immigration status, meaning all international students will have access to the vaccine.
Do international students have to pay for the COVID-19 vaccine?
International students in the UK do not need to pay for the COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccination is completely free of charge and does not count as the kind of care that requires payment under the NHS.
Are international students required to register with a GP (doctor) before booking their appointment for vaccination?
International students can book their COVID-19 vaccination appointments as an unregistered patient through the University Medical Centre or through a local GP practice. However, it is recommended that you also register with a GP beforehand to access the vaccine.
How do I access an NHS number for vaccination?
International students in the UK can approach their local GP practice or their University Medical Centre in order to register with the NHS for the purpose of receiving their COVID-19 vaccine.
Is the COVID-19 vaccination available for dependents of international students who have travelled along with them to the UK?
Dependents of international students in the UK, who are 18 years of age or above and meet the current eligibility criteria are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccination.
What is the process to receive the COVID-19 vaccine?
Once you have an NHS number, you can request a COVID-19 vaccination appointment via the NHS website.
If an international student is not registered with a GP, will they still be invited for their vaccination?
If an international student is not registered with a GP, they will not be proactively contacted by a local NHS service for getting the vaccine. They would be required to book their vaccination appointments themselves as an unregistered patient through the University Medical Centre or a local GP practice.
If an international student has received the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine in their home country and it is not a vaccine that is being offered in the UK, what should they do?
International students who have received a first dose of COVID-19 vaccine abroad that is also available in the UK should receive the same vaccine for the second dose. However, if the vaccine is different, they should contact a GP to ensure they receive an appropriate vaccine for a second dose.
Where can students find more information regarding the COVID-19 vaccine?
The SI-UK COVID-19 and UK Study hub and NHS website are both constantly updated with the latest news and information regarding coronavirus, studying in the UK and vaccines.
Study in the UK
If you wish to study in the UK as an international student and need help with your application or further questions answered, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London today.
My consultant was very helpful and motivating. She helped me every step of the way, even when the deadline was so close. I feel I could not have done it without her. I'd highly recommend this service to any and all of my many friends interested. 
