Before you travel to the UK, it’s important to arrange suitable travel insurance. This helps protect you during your journey and in the early stages of your arrival, giving you peace of mind as you begin your studies.
Your travel insurance should cover you and your personal belongings, and ideally include protection for situations such as delayed or cancelled flights, lost luggage, or unexpected changes to your travel plans. You may also wish to check with your accommodation provider whether any insurance they offer covers your personal items against theft, loss, or damage.
Although you will pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your visa application — which gives you access to NHS healthcare in the UK — travel insurance is still strongly recommended. It can be useful in situations where NHS cover does not apply, including:
- The period before you are fully enrolled on your course
- Travel outside the UK during your studies
- Medical or other costs that are not covered by the NHS
If you have any ongoing medical needs, make sure your insurance policy covers the continuation of treatment until you are fully registered with a UK GP.
Helpful tips
- Check your policy carefully to understand what is included and any exclusions.
- Keep a copy of your insurance documents with you when travelling.
- If you are unsure whether a cost is covered by the NHS, your travel insurance may provide additional protection.