Find out which vaccinations you need and what medication you should pack before you arrive.
Getting vaccinated
Vaccines help to prevent the spread of diseases and save lives.
Free NHS MenB vaccination for new students
If you’re starting university for the first time in Autumn 2026, and were born on or after 21 July 2001, you may be eligible for a free NHS Meningococcal B (MenB) vaccination.
The pharmacy on campus will be offering the vaccine. You can check your eligibilty and book your MenB vaccination appointment through the NHS.
We recommend you arrange their first dose as early as possible to ensure maximum protection before the start of the academic year.
Speak to your doctor or the on-campus NHS health centre to make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date.
The main vaccinations you should consider cover:
You may be able to get these free of charge if you register with a doctor.
If you’re applying for a visa to study in the UK, check whether you need to have a tuberculosis (TB) test before you leave home.
Packing medication
Pharmacies in the UK sell a range of over-the-counter medication. For any medication requiring a prescription, make sure you pack what you need so you have enough to last until you have registered with a doctor.
If you’re travelling from overseas, keep all medication in its original packaging as airport staff might want to see it. Read about what to do if think you’re bringing medication to the UK that contains controlled drugs.
Pharmacy on campus
You can collect prescriptions and buy medicines, cosmetics and toiletries from the pharmacy on campus. It is open all year from 9am-5pm Monday to Friday.
It can also offer prescription medicine for some conditions without having to see a GP or make an appointment. This is called Pharmacy First and covers such things as sore throat, sinusitis, infected insect bites, UTIs and shingles.
Other NHS services offered include contraception pill supply and emergency contraception, free blood pressure checks, and seasonal flu and Covid vaccinations for certain groups of people. It also offers a range of private services.
Contact the pharmacy by calling (+44) (0)1273 699883.
Tip: If you are currently receiving specialist NHS care for either a mental or physical health condition, ask the people treating you to transfer this care to local providers, such as Sussex Partnership NHS Trust or Brighton & Hove NHS, before you arrive.