From Home to Halls: A Guide to Uni Life with T1D
Starting university is a huge milestone- new friends, more independence and the chance to take full control of your life. Having Type 1 Diabetes does mean there are a few extra things to think about, like sorting prescriptions, finding a GP and making sure your uni knows how to support you.
Whether you’re heading off to a big city or a small campus, this guide will help you transition smoothly so you can focus on enjoying uni life, not stressing about your blood sugar.
Step 1: Register with a GP Near Your Uni
Once you move to university, your current GP won’t be able to prescribe your insulin or diabetes supplies unless they’re local. That means registering with a new GP should be top of your to-do list.
How to Register
Find a GP near your uni. Most universities have a university health centre, or you can search for a local NHS GP
Check if they understand diabetes. While you’ll still see a diabetes clinic for specialist care, it helps if your GP surgery is familiar with Type 1
Register online or in person. You’ll need your NHS number (find it on the NHS app or your medical records)
Book an appointment early. Let them know you have Type 1 diabetes and discuss how to order prescriptions.
Step 2: Transfer Your Prescriptions
Running out of insulin in a new city? Not ideal. Once registered with your new GP, get your prescriptions sorted ASAP.
Set up online prescription ordering through the NHS app or your GP’s website
Nominate a local pharmacy (find one close to your accommodation for easy pickups)
Check your repeat prescriptions- make sure your GP knows exactly what you need, including insulin, test strips, CGM sensors, pump supplies and glucagon
Order well in advance- uni life is busy, and the last thing you need is to run out of insulin before a deadline.
Tip: If you use a pump or CGM (Freestyle Libre, Dexcom) check that your new GP can prescribe your supplies. If there’s any issue, contact your diabetes clinic at home or ask for a referral to a local hospital’s diabetes team.
Step 3: Inform Student Support Services
Type 1 Diabetes is covered under the Equality Act of 2010, which means universitites have to offer support if you need it.
Why Register with Student Support?
Exam accommodations- You can request extra time, rest breaks for hypos and permission to bring snacks/ glucose
A Learning Support Plan (LSP)- This ensures lecturers know about your diabetes and any adjustments you need
Help with deadlines and absences- If diabetes affects your studies (eg., frequent hypos, hospital stays), support services can liaise with your tutors.
How to Register
Contact your uni’s Disability Support or Student Wellbeing Service (check their website for details)
Send them a doctor’s letter confirming your condition
Arrange a meeting to discuss exam accommodations, coursework extensions, or any other support you might need
Tip: You don’t have to tell your lecturers directly, but it can help- especially if you need to step out of class to treat a hypo.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!
Moving to Uni with T1D might seem daunting, but with the right planning, it’s totally manageable.
Sort your GP registration & prescriptions early
Let student support know about your diabetes
Stock up on supplies and keep a back up stash
Make time for your health- even during busy exam periods.
Uni is about new experiences, independence and having fun- diabetes doesn’t change that. With a little planning, you can focus on what really matters: making the most of your time at university!