The government has introduced a MenB vaccination programme for students starting university in autumn 2026.
What is MenB and why get vaccinated?
MenB (meningococcal B) is one cause of meningitis and septicaemia. Although rare, these infections can become serious very quickly, so if you’re eligible, we encourage you to get vaccinated before coming to Birmingham.
The vaccine requires two doses. The second dose is given at least 28 days after the first, and your body then needs around two more weeks to build good levels of immunity. In total, it takes around six weeks to develop the best protection.
For that reason, we recommend getting your first dose before arriving at university wherever possible.
If you live in the UK, you can now book online to receive your vaccine at a pharmacy local to you.
Getting vaccinated at UoB
If you can’t get vaccinated before you arrive, don’t worry. You’ll have the opportunity to get vaccinated in Birmingham.
When and where
During Arrival Weekend and Welcome Week – Saturday 19 to Friday 25 September – there will be MenB vaccination walk-ins available on campus.
Whether you need your first or second dose, we’d like to understand how many students are planning to attend so we can ensure enough vaccines are available. Please tell us you’re planning to attend a vaccine walk-in during Welcome.
Alternatively, you can arrange your vaccination through participating pharmacies nearby in Selly Oak, including Selly Pharmacy right by campus on Bristol Road.
You can book with Selly Pharmacy via WhatsApp.
What you need
When attending a pharmacy appointment or a campus walk-in clinic, please bring proof that you’re eligible for the free vaccine. This would include your University offer letter or an email from the University and you can show either on your phone.
International students
We recommend eligible international students receive their first MenB vaccine dose in their home country where possible as this will help you to develop protection sooner.
If that isn’t possible before you travel, you’ll still be able to access vaccination services after arriving in Birmingham as explained above.
Not eligible for a free vaccine?
Students who are not eligible for the NHS-funded programme can still choose to be vaccinated.
Paid MenB vaccinations will be available through participating pharmacies and at the campus vaccination walk-in clinic for students who would like protection at the start of the academic year. The cost is £110 per dose or £200 for two doses.
Am I eligible for a free vaccine?
You may be eligible if you are:
- born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008 in England or Wales, or in the equivalent final school year in Scotland or Northern Ireland
- turning 25 after 31 December 2026 and starting higher education for the first time in autumn 2026
- turning 25 after 31 December 2026 and moving into further education accommodation or halls of residence for the first time in autumn 2026
The programme also includes international students under 25 entering their first year and students in the UK Devolved Administrations and Crown Dependencies.
More information, including answers to common questions about eligibility, is available on the UK Health Security Agency webpage.