Do Students Pay for Prescriptions?

If you're a student living in England and need medication, you might wonder whether prescriptions are free. The answer is that most students do pay for NHS prescriptions, but some are entitled to free prescriptions or financial help, depending on their circumstances.

This guide explains when students pay for prescriptions, who qualifies for exemption, and how to apply for help with healthcare costs through the NHS.

Do Students Have to Pay for Prescriptions?

In England, the standard NHS prescription charge is £9.65 per item (2024). Students are not automatically exempt from paying, even if they are in full-time education.

However, students on a low income may qualify for support through the NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS). This can cover prescription charges, dental care, eye tests, and travel costs related to medical treatment.

In Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, prescriptions are free for everyone, including students, as those governments have scrapped charges entirely.

Who Is Automatically Entitled to Free NHS Prescriptions?

Certain people are always entitled to free prescriptions in England, regardless of income or student status. This includes those who:

• Are under 16 or aged 16 to 18 and in full-time education (college or school, not university)

• Are aged 60 or over

• Are pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months and have a valid maternity exemption certificate

• Have certain qualifying medical conditions and hold a valid medical exemption certificate

• Receive specific means-tested benefits like Income Support, Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, or Universal Credit (with qualifying earnings thresholds)

Students over 19 in higher education are not covered automatically and must apply for help if needed.

How Can Students Get Help with Prescription Costs?

If you’re struggling to afford prescriptions as a student, you can apply for the NHS Low Income Scheme. This offers two types of certificates:

• HC2 Certificate: Full help (free prescriptions and other NHS charges)

• HC3 Certificate: Partial help (some costs reduced)

Eligibility is based on your income, savings and living costs. Many full-time students with no earnings or low part-time income do qualify.

You can apply online or by paper form (HC1), which is available from hospitals, dentists, opticians or online through the NHS Business Services Authority.

How Do I Check If I’m Entitled Before Claiming Free Prescriptions?

If you claim free prescriptions and aren’t entitled, you risk a penalty charge of up to £100 on top of the original cost.

You should check your eligibility before ticking the exemption box on a prescription. You can use the NHS eligibility checker online to confirm your entitlement.

If in doubt, pay the charge and request a refund later once your exemption is confirmed. Keep your receipt (FP57 form), which your pharmacist can issue.

Are There Alternatives to Paying Per Item?

Yes. If you need regular prescriptions, a Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) can save money.

A PPC allows you to pay a flat fee for unlimited prescriptions:

• £31.25 for 3 months

• £111.60 for 12 months (can be paid in 10 monthly instalments)

If you’re on two or more prescriptions each month, this can work out cheaper.

Summary

In England, most university students are expected to pay for prescriptions. However, financial help is available through the NHS Low Income Scheme, and those aged 16 to 18 in full-time education are exempt. It’s important to check your entitlement before claiming, to avoid penalties.

If you regularly need medication, explore options like PPCs, and don’t hesitate to apply for support if your income is low. Students shouldn’t have to choose between health and finances, and the NHS provides help for those who need it most.