Students heading to university over the next few weeks will probably have a to-do list longer than their arm.

From kitchen appliances to bags of bathroom toiletries and stocking up on as many cheap cupboard essentials as possible, there is a lot to remember.

Some may be moving out for the first time, travelling far and wide to begin their studies and others will be returning to campus - but there is one task university students don’t want to forget when it comes to looking after their health.

How do I register for a doctor as a university student?

The NHS has advised some of the most important things students can do for their healthcare when moving away from home for the first time.

This includes registering with a new GP and finding their local sexual health service.

The website explains: “If, like most students, you spend more weeks of the year at your university address than your family's address, you need to register with a GP near your university as soon as possible.

“That way you can receive emergency care if you need it, and access health services quickly and easily while you're away.”

The NHS says this is especially important if you have an ongoing health condition, particularly one that needs medicine, such as asthma, diabetes or epilepsy.

It adds: “You can choose to register with any local GP. The health centre attached to your university is likely to be the most convenient, and the doctors working there will be experienced in the health needs of students.”

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Anyone in England can register with a GP surgery to access NHS services and it’s free to register.

You can find your nearest doctor’s surgery here.

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When you have chosen a medical practice that suits your needs, you will need to fill in a registration form. These are usually available on:

  • the NHS App
  • the GP surgery's website
  • the GP surgery's profile page on the NHS website (Find a GP)
  • you can also get a paper form from the surgery

Students do not need ID, an NHS number or proof of address to register.

Visit the NHS website for more information including when a GP surgery can refuse to register you.