Prescription Costs: University Students In The Uk Pay?

University students in the UK are generally required to pay for their prescriptions unless they meet certain criteria for exemption. The rules vary across the different nations of the UK, with prescriptions being free for students registered with a GP in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. In England, students aged 16-18 in full-time education are exempt from prescription charges, but those aged 19 and above must pay, even if they are still studying full-time. Some students may be eligible for free prescriptions under the NHS Low Income Scheme, which is based on their income rather than their household income. Additionally, there are specific exemptions for students with certain medical conditions, disabilities, or those who are pregnant or have recently given birth.

Students aged 16-18 in full-time education get free prescriptions

Students in the UK who are aged 16-18 and in full-time education are automatically exempt from paying prescription charges. This applies to students in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

If you are 16, 17, or 18 years old and in full-time education, you can simply tick the exemption category on the rear of the prescription form. However, it is important to note that proof of being in full-time education may be required for those who are 16-18 years old.

Once you turn 19, you will need to pay for prescriptions, even if you remain in full-time education. This rule applies to students in England, as university is not considered mandatory full-time education. However, students from Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland who are studying in England can obtain an exemption card to continue receiving free prescriptions.

In addition to being a student aged 16-18 in full-time education, there are other criteria that can make someone eligible for free prescriptions. These include being pregnant or having had a baby in the last 12 months, having a specified medical condition or a continuing physical disability, and receiving certain benefits or having a low income.

Students in England aged 19+ must pay for prescriptions

University students in England who are aged 19 and over must pay for their prescriptions. This applies regardless of whether you are studying full-time, and includes students with underlying health conditions.

Exemptions

There are some exemptions to this rule, however. Students with a specified medical condition and a valid medical exemption certificate are exempt from paying for prescriptions.

Additionally, students who are pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months, with a valid maternity exemption certificate, are also exempt from paying.

Low-Income Support

Students who are unable to afford prescription charges may be eligible for the NHS Low Income Scheme. This scheme is based on your income, not your parents', and is available to those whose annual income, including student maintenance loans, savings, and investments, does not exceed £16,000.

Prepayment Options

For those with repeat prescriptions, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a prepayment certificate. This allows you to pay for 3 or 12 months upfront, covering all prescriptions during that period. A 3-month pre-payment certificate costs £31.25-£32.05, while a 12-month certificate costs £111.60-£114.50.

Students in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland get free prescriptions

In Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, prescriptions are free for everyone. This means that students from these countries studying in England can get an exemption card to continue receiving free prescriptions while in England.

Students in England can apply for the NHS Low Income Scheme, which is based on their income, not their parents'. This scheme is available to those whose annual income, including student maintenance loans, savings and investments, does not exceed £16,000. If eligible, students will receive full or partial help with healthcare costs.

Students with low incomes may qualify for the NHS Low Income Scheme

To apply for the NHS Low Income Scheme, students must complete an HC1 form and provide evidence of their income, living costs, and any grants, bursaries, or awards they receive. The application process typically takes around 20 minutes, and applicants should receive a response within 18 working days. If eligible, students will receive either an HC2 certificate for full help with healthcare costs or an HC3 certificate for partial help. These certificates are typically valid for 6 months to 5 years, depending on the applicant's circumstances.

It is important to note that the NHS Low Income Scheme is not the only way for students to access free prescriptions. In the UK, students under the age of 19 in full-time education are automatically entitled to full help with health costs, excluding travel costs. Additionally, students registered with a GP in Scotland, Northern Ireland, or Wales will receive free prescriptions regardless of their age, income, or other factors.

For students who do not meet the criteria for free prescriptions or the NHS Low Income Scheme, there are alternative ways to save money on prescription costs. One option is to purchase a prepayment certificate, which allows students to pay for 3 or 12 months upfront and covers all prescriptions during that period.

Students can save money with a Prescription Prepayment Certificate

A single prescription item costs £9.90. However, a PPC costs £32.05 for 3 months or £114.50 for 12 months. You can also pay for a 12-month PPC in 10 monthly instalments of £11.45. Therefore, if you are prescribed four or more medications in three months, or 12 or more in a year, a PPC will be cheaper.

You can buy a PPC online or over the phone, and you will either receive the certificate via email or be able to print it yourself. To collect your prescription, show your certificate details. You can collect prescriptions straight away if your start date is today or earlier.

It is important to note that PPCs are only available in England. If you live in Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland, prescriptions are free.

Frequently asked questions