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Essentials Information for parents and supporters International students FAQs

FAQs

Take a look at our frequently asked questions.

  • Can family and friends obtain a visiting visa?
    If you would like to visit the UK while your young person is studying, it is important that you apply for a visitor visa (if required) and follow the correct procedure. Please be mindful that visitors are not entitled to use NHS services, therefore we recommend that you consider purchasing insurance before travelling. Without travel insurance, hospital treatment will be charged at 150% of the actual cost. Failure to pay may result in refusal for future visa applications.
  • What is a National Insurance Number, and how can my young person apply for one?
    When applying for a job in the UK, it is necessary to have a NI number (National Insurance Number). It is possible to apply for a National Insurance Number once in the UK. Applicants can liaise with the Job Centre directly by calling 0345 600 0643 or visiting this website.
  • My young person wants to live in private accommodation, but does not have a UK guarantor – what can they do?
    Usually when there is no UK guarantor, landlords or letting agencies will ask students to pay 6-12 months' rent upfront. This may not be possible for all students. Therefore, the University and Reading University Students' Union (RUSU) have created a partnership with ‘YourGuarantor’, a service that can act as a UK guarantor for international students. 

Find out if you are eligible for this scheme or apply now.

  • How can my young person access medical care?
    Click here to find out where students can seek medical help in the local area. 

EU students
 EU students are entitled to use the National Health Service - however they must have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), otherwise they could be charged.

Non-EU students
 When you applied for the Tier 4 visa you most likely would have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) which entitles you to use the National Health Service (NHS). When you are accessing healthcare, it is important to take your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) with you just in case they ask to see it.

If you have not paid the IHS because you have a visa to study, work or join family in the UK for less than 6 months, you are still allowed to use healthcare services. However, you will be charged for using them. In these case we recommend that you consider purchasing insurance before your arrival.

  • I have a question related to Brexit
    Please visit our dedicated webpages for frequently asked questions about Brexit, and for queries about the EU Settlement Scheme.
  • I can’t find the answer to my question
    Can’t find the answer to your question here or through our other pages? Please email int.adv@reading.ac.uk and the team will advise you as soon as possible.