Public healthcare in the UK is provided by the National Health Service (NHS). You and your dependents are entitled to free NHS care if your course is going to last for 6 months or more.

If you're a non-EU student on a course of less than 6 months, you will need take out health care insurance.

Treatment for accident or emergencies is however free for everyone.

You should register with a doctor as soon as possible near to where you live or at a surgery on campus. Remember to take your MMU enrolment letter with you.

You'll find lists of Doctors at the Post Office or at key Student Information Points. There will be more about this in the Student handbook we'll give you when you arrive.

If you're an overseas student in full-time education, you may be able to get free prescriptions and some help with dental or optical treatment.

You'll need to apply for an exemption certificate first (called HC2), using form HC1 from Job Centre Plus or the Post Office.

Meningitis

Meningitis outbreaks occur all over the world. The peak time for the UK is early autumn (but don't worry - the risk is still small).

The Chief Medical Officer for Health in England recommends that new students should have a meningitis vaccination. Consult your doctor for advice.

Keeping healthy

Here are just a few tips for you to keep fit and healthy

• Eat a proper balanced diet and don't miss meals!
• Don't use water from the hot tap to make hot drinks.
• Take regular exercise. Walking is a good way and saves you the bus fare! Or use our excellent sports facilities.
• Try to get out and meet people socially. You'll find that your academic work will benefit if you have outside interests.