International students in the UK to receive Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine

The UK government has announced international students studying in the UK will receive the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine when it is rolled out across the country in the coming months.

The UK is the first country to approve and start vaccinations (Pfizer/BioNTech - the most effective one produced so far) and is likely to be the first country fully vaccinated, likely by late spring/early summer, meaning September 2021 entry will be safe for all students and staff. The UK has ordered 350+ million vaccine doses for a population of 65-million meaning supply will be sufficient.

The Department of Health and Social Care confirmed to The PIE that international students will “be able to access these vaccinations, just as they are able to access healthcare.”

Universities minister Michelle Donelan also thanked students for their patience earlier this week in an open letter.

“We are delighted that you have chosen to study with us and look forward to welcoming many more of you to our world-class universities in future years,” she said in the letter.

“Whether you are currently at your chosen university, are studying remotely from your home country, or plan to study here in the future, I am writing to you directly to provide you with support and guidance at this challenging time.”