Extended prescription supply through UK customs

Well unfortunately I had already had my prescription filled and paid for before this new information, but if I happen to stay in the UK longer, I will definitely take advantage of it. I have one other question though.. Don't you have to have an NIN to take advantage of this? Or is it free to anyone, no matter if they have an NIN or not? Since I will be a year long student, I think I do have the option of getting an NIN, but I know a lot of other study abroad-ers are only there for a semester and will only be on visit with no visa at all (so they can't get an NIN). This is really good info though!

A NIN has nothing to do with getting health care, it's for tax purposes- you only need one if you'll be employed or getting benefits. 

Anyone who has a student visa for more than six months is eligible to use the NHS (and thus, the free contraceptives!) You do get an NHS number after you register with a surgery, but it's not a requirement per se.

A NIN has nothing to do with getting health care, it's for tax purposes- you only need one if you'll be employed or getting benefits. 

Anyone who has a student visa for more than six months is eligible to use the NHS (and thus, the free contraceptives!) You do get an NHS number after you register with a surgery, but it's not a requirement per se.

Yeah, the only time you'd be required to produce a NIN is when signing a job contract (so when they pay you, they can take National Insurance contributions out of your payslip - last month they took £5 NI contribution and £5 tax off me!).

You know, I had no idea what an NHS number even was until a few weeks ago and I was born and raised here!

You're right, I mixed up my N-acronyms. I meant that I thought you had to be registered with NHS but I confused myself with the NIN thing.