University Students: Who Gets Free Prescriptions?

University students in the UK may be entitled to free prescriptions depending on their age, income, and location. In England, students aged 16-18 in full-time education are exempt from paying prescription charges. However, those aged 19 and above must pay for prescriptions unless they meet certain low-income criteria. In Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, prescriptions are free for all, regardless of age or income.

University students in England aged 16-18 and in full-time education are entitled to free prescriptions

If you're a university student in England, you may be wondering if you're entitled to free prescriptions. Well, it depends on your age and circumstances.

University students in England who are aged 16 to 18 and in full-time education are entitled to free prescriptions. This exemption applies to students in their first year of university, as well as those in sixth form or college. To claim this exemption, simply tick the relevant box on the rear of the prescription form.

However, it's important to note that once you turn 19, you will no longer be exempt from prescription charges, even if you're still in full-time education. At this point, you will need to pay the standard prescription charge, which is currently £9.90 per item in England.

Other Exemptions and Ways to Save on Prescription Costs

While university students over the age of 18 in England are not automatically entitled to free prescriptions, there are other exemptions and ways to save on prescription costs.

• Specified Medical Conditions and Disabilities: If you have a specified medical condition or a continuing physical disability, you can apply for a medical exemption certificate, which will entitle you to free prescriptions.
• Pregnancy and Postpartum: If you are pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months, you can obtain a maternity exemption certificate, which will make you eligible for free prescriptions.
• Income-Based Benefits: If you receive certain income-based benefits, such as income-based Jobseeker's Allowance or income-related Employment and Support Allowance, you are automatically entitled to free prescriptions. This also applies to your partner and any dependent young people under 20 included in your award.
• Low Income: If you have a low income, you may qualify for help with prescription costs through the NHS Low Income Scheme. This is assessed based on your income, not your parents', and includes student maintenance loans. If you qualify, you'll receive either an HC2 or HC3 certificate, which grants you full or partial help with health costs, respectively.
• Prepayment Certificates: If you need multiple prescriptions, you can save money by purchasing a prepayment certificate, which allows you to pay for 3 or 12 months upfront.

A prescription is a letter from your doctor that can be taken to a pharmacy to receive the prescribed medication. It outlines the recommended medication, dosage, and other relevant instructions.

Yes, some medications are always free, including contraceptives and medication given to hospital inpatients.

How to Get More Information

To find out more about your specific circumstances and eligibility, you can use an online eligibility checker or speak to your university's guidance team for financial support. Remember, it is your responsibility to ensure you're entitled to free prescriptions before claiming them.

Students aged 19 and over will have to pay for prescriptions unless exempt

Students aged 19 and over will have to pay for prescriptions unless they meet certain criteria. In England, students who are exempt from paying for prescriptions include those who:

• Are pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months and have a valid maternity exemption certificate
• Have a specified medical condition and have a valid medical exemption certificate
• Have a continuing physical disability and have a valid medical exemption certificate
• Have a valid war pension exemption certificate and the prescription is for their accepted disability
• Are an NHS inpatient

Students aged 19 and over may also be eligible for help with prescription costs if they meet certain criteria. For example, students entitled to income support and receiving income-based benefits will automatically be eligible for free prescriptions. Students on contribution-based benefits or Universal Credit may also be eligible, depending on their take-home pay in the last assessment period.

In addition, students with a low income may qualify for help with prescription costs through the NHS Low Income Scheme. To be eligible, students must have an income of less than £16,000 per year, including any savings, investments, or property. Under this scheme, students may receive either an HC2 or HC3 certificate. An HC2 certificate grants full help with health costs, while an HC3 certificate provides partial help. It is important to note that HC3 certificates do not cover prescription costs.

For students who do not meet the criteria for free or subsidised prescriptions, there are still ways to save on prescription costs. One option is to purchase a prescription prepayment certificate, which allows students to pay for three or 12 months upfront. This can be cost-effective for those who need multiple prescriptions.

Students with a low income may be eligible for help with prescription costs

To apply for the NHS Low Income Scheme, you need to fill out a HC1 form and provide evidence of any grants, bursaries, and awards you receive. The application process also requires you to supply proof of your income, which includes student maintenance loans, savings, and investments. It is important to note that the HC1 form can be obtained from your student services hub, doctor, dentist surgery, or reception. Additionally, it can be ordered online or by calling the Health Literature line on 0800 555 777.

The NHS Low Income Scheme is based on your income and not your parents' income. This scheme can help with prescription costs, as well as other healthcare expenses such as dental and optical charges. By obtaining an HC2 certificate, you can receive free prescriptions, NHS dental and sight treatment, assistance with the cost of glasses and contact lenses, and travel to and from NHS doctor appointments.

If you are unable to obtain an exemption through the NHS Low Income Scheme, you may still be able to save money by purchasing a pre-payment certificate. This option allows you to pay for 3 or 12 months upfront, covering all your prescriptions during that period. The cost of a 3-month certificate is £32.05, while a 12-month certificate costs £114.50.

Students in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland get free prescriptions

Students in the UK may wonder whether they are entitled to free prescriptions or if they have to pay for them. While students in England have to pay for prescriptions, students in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland get free prescriptions.

Scotland

Prescriptions in Scotland are free. If you study or live in Scotland, you can get a free NHS eye examination and a free NHS dental check, regardless of your age.

Wales

In Wales, all prescriptions are free. If you are registered with a GP in Wales, you are entitled to free prescriptions from a pharmacist in Wales. If you live in Wales but are registered with a GP in England, you will be issued an entitlement card, which allows you to get your prescription dispensed for free in Wales.

Northern Ireland

All prescriptions dispensed in Northern Ireland are free, regardless of where the prescription originated. Patients from Northern Ireland presenting the newer HS21CS prescription form do not pay any charges, no matter where their prescription is dispensed.

Students with certain medical conditions are entitled to free prescriptions

To obtain a medical exemption certificate, you must have a valid reason, such as a specified medical condition. The certificate serves as proof that you are entitled to free prescriptions. It is important to note that you are responsible for checking your eligibility for free prescriptions before claiming them. Claiming free prescriptions that you are not entitled to can result in a penalty charge of up to £100.

In England, students aged 16 to 18 in full-time education are automatically exempt from paying prescription charges. However, once you turn 19, you must pay for prescriptions even if you are still in full-time education. Students aged 19 and over will have to pay for most medications unless they are exempt. Exemptions include students with disabilities, those receiving benefits, and those with low incomes. Additionally, all contraception products are also free for students.

If you are a student with a low income, you may qualify for help with prescription costs under the NHS Low Income Scheme. This scheme is based on your income, not your parents' income. To be eligible, your annual income, including student maintenance loans, savings, and investments, must not exceed £16,000. If you are granted a HC2 certificate, you will receive full help with healthcare costs, including free prescriptions, dental treatment, and sight tests. On the other hand, a HC3 certificate grants partial help with health costs, but it does not cover prescription charges.

Frequently asked questions