Getting a COVID Test

There is a phone number (0800 028 2816) but ordering the test online is easy:

www.NHSinform.scot/test-and-protect

Test by Post

Like many students, I don’t drive. Therefore, the test is dispatched to you – by Amazon, a reliable service.

With the test, there is a fantastic and simply written guide. The first thing you should do is read the guide. Don’t rush to do the test as it is important to do it correctly!

So while you wait for your test – and the all-important guide – here is some useful information in advance.

Taking the Test

There is an excellent You Tube video here, watch it several times while you wait for your test to arrive:

youtu.be/zCqo7MhQT6U  

Relaxation/Mindfulness Techniques

To be honest, it is not easy or comfortable to swab the back of your own throat. Before taking the test, I recommend doing one or more relaxation technique:

Range of techniques (audio recordings): https://www.mindful.org/meditation/mindfulness-getting-started/

Relaxation techniques:

https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/relaxation/relaxation-exercises/ 

Guided meditations:

https://youtu.be/MR57rug8NsM

https://youtu.be/pBoAquxhspA

https://youtu.be/aNXKjGFUlMs

Posting the Test

The test needs to be posted on the same day as taking the test – and delivered to a “priority” postbox 1 hour before its last collection. Therefore, if you receive the test late afternoon (like I did) I recommend taking the test, then posting it, first thing the next morning.

The test can be posted at one of the special “priority” postboxes – ie not just any postbox!

To find your nearest priority postbox and its collection times, go to royalmail.com/services-near-you. Then click below the postcode - Show my nearest priority postboxes. Then enter postcode and select your address.

Priority Postboxes near RGU Accommodation Sites:

Woolmanhill AB25 1LE

GOLDEN SQUARE AB10

0.3 miles

Last Collection at 18:00

ST NICHOLAS STREET AB10

0.4 miles

Last Collection at 18:00

Crathie AB10 7LG

HOLBURN STREET POST OFFICE

313 Holburn Street AB10

0.5 miles

Last Collection at 17:00

GARTHDEE POST OFFICE

66 Garthdee Drive AB10

0.6 miles

Last Collection at 17:00

Do not go in to the post office - use the postbox outside!

Ramsay AB10 7AF

GARTHDEE POST OFFICE

66 Garthdee Drive AB10

0.3 miles

Last Collection at 17:00

Do not go in to the post office - use the postbox outside!



Round and Square Tower AB10 7QB

66 Garthdee Drive POST OFFICE

AB10

0.7 miles

Last Collection at 17:00



Do not go in to the post office - use the postbox outside!

Good luck as you wait for your test result!



By Rachel Grant, Team Lead of Student Help Point

Browse our useful online information at www.rgu.ac.uk/studenthelppoint