NHS IVF Eligibility Checker
Find out if you qualify for NHS-funded IVF and how many cycles your local ICB funds. Enter your postcode and answer a few questions to get an instant eligibility estimate — then compare against the real cost of going private.
Data source: GOV.UK NHS-funded IVF in England (2025-09-11). 38 ICBs with published policies, 4 under review.
Step 1 of 8: Postcode
Where do you live?
Your postcode determines which NHS Integrated Care Board (ICB) covers your area and what IVF funding they offer.
Frequently asked questions
How many IVF cycles does the NHS fund?
NICE recommends 3 full cycles for eligible women under 40 and 1 for ages 40-42. In practice, most ICBs fund only 1 non-full cycle. The most generous ICBs (North East and North Cumbria, North East London) fund 3 full cycles plus 1 additional for ages 40-42. Four ICBs are currently under review.
What is the NHS IVF age limit?
The maximum age varies by ICB from 35 to 42. The most restrictive ICBs (Buckinghamshire/Oxfordshire/Berkshire West, Frimley, Hampshire & IoW) cap at 35. Most set the limit at 39-42. Some offer reduced cycles for ages 40-42.
What is the IVF postcode lottery?
The “IVF postcode lottery” describes the wide variation in NHS IVF funding across England. NICE recommends 3 cycles, but ICBs set their own policies. Some fund 3 full cycles; the majority fund just 1 non-full cycle. Age limits, BMI requirements, and children restrictions also vary. Your postcode determines which ICB covers you.
How much does private IVF cost in the UK?
The UK average advertised IVF price is £4,890/cycle, but the true cost (including medication, ICSI, tests, consultations, storage) is closer to £6,210. London clinics average £5,877 advertised / £7,463 true cost. Budget £6,000-£8,000 outside London and £7,500-£10,000 in London for one complete cycle.
Can I get NHS IVF if my partner has children?
Most ICBs do not fund IVF if either partner has any living child — including from previous relationships. This is one of the most common disqualifying factors.
How long is the NHS IVF waiting list?
NHS IVF waiting times typically range from 12-18 months from GP referral to starting treatment. Some areas have 2+ year waits. Private IVF usually starts within 4-8 weeks. The investigation and referral process can add 6-12 months before you join the waiting list.
Important disclaimer
This tool provides information based on publicly available ICB commissioning policies published by GOV.UK. It does not constitute medical advice. ICB policies can change between GOV.UK publication updates. Always confirm your eligibility with your GP. No personal health data is stored — your inputs are processed in your browser and are not sent to our servers.
ICB policy data from GOV.UK NHS-funded IVF in England (2025-09-11), published under the Open Government Licence v3.0. HFEA clinic data from hfea.gov.uk.