NHS IVF Eligibility Checker

Question 1 of 6

What is your age?

Your age is one of the most important factors in NHS IVF eligibility.

What is your approximate BMI?

Most NHS areas require a BMI between 19 and 30 to qualify for funded treatment.

Do you or your partner smoke?

Many NHS areas require both partners to be non-smokers before funding treatment.

Do you have any existing children?

This is often the strictest NHS criterion. Many areas will not fund IVF if either partner already has a child.

How long have you been trying to conceive?

Most NHS areas require a minimum period of trying before referring for IVF.

Which part of the UK are you in?

NHS IVF funding varies significantly by region and local commissioning body.

Your Eligibility Breakdown

NHS-Funded IVF Cycles by Region

The number of funded cycles you may receive depends on where you live.

Scotland Up to 3 cycles

Wales Up to 2 cycles

England 1 – 3 cycles (varies by ICB)

Northern Ireland Up to 1 cycle

What to Do Next

Book an appointment with your GP

Your GP is the first point of contact. Explain how long you have been trying to conceive and ask for an initial referral for fertility investigations.

Undergo initial fertility tests

Your GP will arrange blood tests, semen analysis, and possibly an ultrasound scan. These help identify any underlying causes and are required before an IVF referral.

Get referred to a fertility clinic

If initial tests suggest you need further treatment, your GP will refer you to an NHS fertility clinic. Waiting times vary by area but are typically 3 to 12 months.

Check your local ICB or Health Board criteria

Eligibility rules differ by area. Your clinic or GP can confirm the exact criteria for your local Integrated Care Board (England) or Health Board (Scotland, Wales, NI).

What If I Am Not Eligible for NHS IVF?

If NHS funding is not available to you, there are still several options worth exploring:

Self-funded (private) IVF

Many NHS fertility clinics also offer private treatment, often at lower cost than standalone private clinics. A typical cycle in the UK costs between £3,000 and £5,000 plus medication.

Egg sharing schemes

If you are under 36, you may be able to share your eggs with another patient in return for free or heavily subsidised IVF treatment.

Treatment abroad

Countries such as Spain, the Czech Republic, and Greece offer IVF at a lower cost. Research clinics carefully and factor in travel expenses.

Compare clinic prices

Prices vary significantly between UK clinics. Use our search tool to compare costs and find the best option for your budget.

Search & Compare Clinics

Find NHS Fertility Clinics Near You

Search our database of UK fertility clinics and filter by NHS availability.

Find NHS Clinics

Please note: This tool provides general guidance only. NHS eligibility criteria vary by area (ICB/Health Board) and change regularly. Always check with your GP or local ICB for the most up-to-date criteria in your area. This checker is not a substitute for professional medical advice and does not guarantee eligibility or access to treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions About NHS IVF

Is IVF free in the UK?

IVF can be free on the NHS if you meet the eligibility criteria set by your local Integrated Care Board (in England) or Health Board (in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland). The criteria typically cover age, BMI, smoking status, existing children, and how long you have been trying to conceive. The number of funded cycles varies by region.

How do I apply for IVF on the NHS?

You cannot apply directly. The process starts with your GP, who will arrange initial fertility tests. If these indicate a need for IVF, your GP refers you to an NHS fertility clinic. The clinic then assesses whether you meet the local funding criteria. There is no application form. It is a clinical referral pathway.

How many rounds of IVF can you get on the NHS?

NICE guidelines recommend up to 3 full cycles for eligible women under 40. However, actual provision depends on your region. Scotland funds up to 3 cycles, Wales up to 2, and Northern Ireland typically funds 1. In England, it varies by ICB, and some offer 3 cycles while others offer only 1.

Can you get IVF on the NHS if you already have children?

In most areas, no. The majority of NHS commissioning bodies will not fund IVF if either partner already has a child, whether from the current or a previous relationship. However, criteria do vary by area, so it is always worth checking with your local ICB or Health Board.

What are the NHS IVF age limits?

NICE guidelines recommend offering IVF to women up to the age of 42. Women aged 40 to 42 may be offered 1 cycle if they have never had IVF before and there is no evidence of low ovarian reserve. Women aged 43 and over are generally not eligible for NHS-funded IVF. Some local areas set their upper age limit lower than the NICE recommendation.

Am I Eligible for NHS-Funded IVF?