Everything Students Should Know About IHS – International Health Surcharge

Introduction

An important aspect that Indian students should think about when they fantasize about studying in the UK is the International Health Surcharge (IHS). This fee is important for accessing UK healthcare for international students through the National Health Service (NHS). It covers several medical procedures to ensure students do not fall into the hands of health facility financial traps during illness. From the IHS fees management to making the IHS payment, to knowing about IHS refund eligibility, these are fundamental aspects for the conducting of a study abroad business.

Student Health Surcharge is compulsory for anyone intending to seek a visa to the United Kingdom if the intended visit is for more than six months. It gives an opportunity to get access to some services such as GP consultations and hospital treatments by paying only a surcharge, without further extra payments at the end. Concerns that many students have also include what is included, how much they will have to cater for, and if they don’t need the full duration of coverage. This guide will clarify the details regarding the International Health Surcharge for the Indian students going to the UK.

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What is the IHS and Why is it Needed?

The International Health Surcharge (HIS) is a charge that a learner from other countries will be required to pay every time he/she applies for a visa to the United Kingdom. It enables them to qualify for the UK healthcare for international students that focuses on providing services of the NHS.

• The IHS fees apply for the visa that will take more than 6 months to be processed.
• It includes almost all sorts of health care services such as emergency treatments, doctors’ visits and so on.
• The payment of the IHS payment is obligatory during the course of the visa application exercise.

How Much Does the IHS Cost?

The IHS fees depend on the amount of time one will spend in the UK. For students, they charge £470 per year. This is normally charged based on the length of your course and then a little more on top of it.

Breakdown of IHS Fees:

• £470 per year for students
• £235 for six-month periods

This fee entitles you to healthcare in the UK; therefore, there are minimal to zero cash charges for NHS services. If your visa has been reduced, you may apply for an IHS refund.

What Does the IHS Cover?

The International Health Surcharge gives students full right to use different facilities provided by the National Health Services. Although many treatments are provided, some services are paid separately, such as visits to dental surgeons and prescriptions.

Services Covered by IHS:

• General practitioner attendances and hospital care
• Emergency care
• Mental health services

However, the UK healthcare for international students does not cover everything. Be prepared to pay additional costs for something like dental treatments or getting an eye check-up.

Read more: Study in UK for Indian Students: Your Ultimate Guide

How to Pay the IHS?

The IHS payment is made whenever you apply for a visa. You can calculate your fees and make payments online.

Steps to Pay the IHS:

1. To determine your IHS fee, you will have to use your course duration as a basis. 
2. Pay this fee during the visa application using a debit or credit card. 
3. Remember the reference number of the payment for your visa application.

Can You Get an IHS Refund?

In some situations, students may be eligible for an IHS refund. This can happen if, for instance, your visa is declined or they have to leave the UK early.

Conditions for IHS Refund:

• Visa refusal
• Leaving the UK earlier than anticipated.
• Overpayment of the IHS fee

Please remember that refunds are not credited unless you apply.

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Conclusion

The International Health Surcharge has the primary purpose of providing the students with healthcare needs while in the course of studying. Learning how much your IHS fees will be, how to make the IHS payment as well as when you can be eligible for an IHS refund is important information for your trip. Ensure that you’re aware of the services offered by the NHS in order to put your efforts into your books without having to incur medical bills.

For additional help, check out our study abroad consultancy services and the many options available to students who want to study in the USA, study in the UK, study in Canada, study in Australia, study in Ireland, and many other countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Do I get the IHS fee back if I leave the country before the given period expires?

Of course, you may apply for a partial IHS refund if you leave the UK before your visa expires.

Q2: Does IHS cover dental care?

The standard UK healthcare does not include dental care under the standard UK healthcare for International students.

Q3: What if I don’t pay the IHS?

You will not be processed for the visa without making IHS payment.

Q4: Is the IHS fee a one-time fee?

Yes, the IHS payment is done once only, and this shall cover your period of visa.