Doctors looking to register with the GMC and find a job in the NHS will be required to take either the OET or IELTS exam. Here we answer some FAQs about the OET exam.
OET can be challenging and, without proper preparation, it is not uncommon for doctors to fail at their first attempt.
So, to help make sure you are as prepared as possible before sitting the exam, we have answered the most common FAQs asked by an overseas doctor:
What is the OET?
How is the OET different from IELTS?
What regulatory bodies accept OET?
What test should I take?
Is OET a better option than IELTS?
Is the OET recognised by the General Medical Council (GMC)?
What results do I need for GMC registration?
How much does it cost?
Should I prepare for the exam?
Should I spend money on preparing?
Where can I find online study materials?
How do I register?
Where can I take the test?
Can I change my test date?
Can I take a re-sit?
What is the OET?
OET stands for Occupational English Test. The OET is an English Language Test created specifically for healthcare professionals.
The OET exam assesses the language communication skills of healthcare professionals who wish to register and practice in the UK, or other English-speaking countries.
It tests your English levels in four subtests: Reading, Writing, Speaking & Listening.
How is the OET different from IELTS?
OET is a language assessment designed for healthcare professionals, testing your English Language skills in a medical context.
IELTS is not specific to the healthcare profession, it is taken by professionals from all industries. So, the topics covered are more general.
Both test four areas of English Language skills: reading, writing, speaking and listening.
What regulatory bodies accept OET?
The good news is that if you choose the OET exam, recent changes to the rules as of the 1st October 2019, means that only one test now required for both UK registration and visa purposes. The OET exam is now accepted by both the GMC and the UK Home Office.
What test should I take?
Neither exam is easier than the other. Both IELTS and OET Medicine show you have an advanced level in English. It really is up to you!
You may find OET simpler to understand as it is healthcare related and tests the language you use in daily practice.
The same can be said about IELTS, you may find the general nature of the topics more suited to you.
Is OET a better option than IELTS?
There is no one option better than the other, both are recognised qualifications by the GMC. The most important thing to decide is which suits your needs the most.
Your decision may be based on factors such as:
the format and content of the different tests
regularity with which test sessions are held
locations of test centres
test fees
regulatory bodies that accept the test for applications
Is the OET recognised by the General Medical Council (GMC)?
Yes, the GMC recognises OET for overseas-trained doctors for registration purposes. For the GMC to accept your OET certificate it must show that you took the medicine sub-tests.
What results do I need for GMC registration?
For the GMC to accept your OET certificate it must show:
You took the medicine version of the test.
You attained at least a grade 'B' in each testing area (speaking, listening, reading and writing) or 350 points in total.
What is the test format?
OET has four parts:
Listening (45 minutes)
Reading (60 minutes)
Writing (45 minutes)
Speaking (20 minutes)
The total test time is approximately 3 hours.
How much does it cost?
Test fees are AUD $587 (approx. £329 based on November 2023 exchange rate).
Should I prepare for the exam?
Yes, exam preparation is crucial to scoring highly in the test. You might feel like you already have a good level of English, good enough to pass the tests.
But IMGs keep telling us that no matter what level of English they have, it is always better to prepare. The test consists of very specific content, so specific test skills are required.
Should I spend money on preparing?
Whilst not essential, we recommend that you seek further support. This could be via online tutorials, 1 - 1 teaching, or longer course-based learning. There are lots of OET tutors available online.
That said, there are also loads of ways that you can improve your English for free, at home and in your own time.
Where can I find online study materials?
With thousands of useful websites available, it can be tricky to decide where to start. We recommend the OET Preparation Portal. Here you will discover official resources, some for free!
For example, you can expect to find:
sample practice tests
masterclass videos with an OET preparation expert
tips to improve your test performance
online preparation Course
practice books
How do I register?
Register online here.
The OET have a portal for all applicants, called myOET. This lets you apply for tests, view your results, and create a profile.
Where can I take the test?
OET is available at more than 115 locations in 40 countries, with 14 test dates per year.
Be sure to choose the correct date and location when you apply.
You can find a test date and venue here.
Can I change my test date?
Yes, you can change the test date any day prior to the original test date booked. Please note, no refund is available, and an administration fee will apply to book a new date. The cost of deferring depends on when you decide to defer:
Administration cost before application closing date is $120 (approx. £67 at the point of writing)
Administration cost after applications closing date passes is $200 (approx. £110 at the point of writing)
No refund is available for cancellations.
Can I take a re-sit?
Yes, you can book a new test at any time, however this will be at further personal cost.
Consider working with an accredited tutor
As an International Brand dedicated to helping international doctors to register with the GMC and find work in the NHS - we have lots of partnerships in place with trusted companies in many areas. One of these key areas is English Language Testing and IMG Connect works closely with a company called Specialist Language Courses. You can take a look at their website here.
Specialist Language courses work very professionally and are the UK's leading provider of online courses and tutoring. They are also one of the few accredited providers of OET and have provided consultation and guidance to the GMC on English language testing.
Success rates are 70% + for those who sign for their tutoring and you can receive a discount if introduced by IMG Connect.
Register with IMG Connect to request your discount on English Language Courses or get in touch with one of our IMG Consultants to discuss.
IMG Jobs
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IMG Resources
Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!
Get in Touch
Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.
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Overseas doctors often have questions about the best ways to prepare for PLAB, particularly with so many online resources available with varying reviews and price points.
So, what study preparation, materials, courses and support are available for international doctors? We have compiled some of the best resources and courses to help you in your preparation for the PLAB 1 exam.
The topics we will cover are as follows:
What is the PLAB 1 exam?
What do I need in preparation for the PLAB 1 exam?
How do I get started with my revision?
What other resources are available?
#IMGTips
Passed? What’s next?
For an overview of the entire examination series, have a look at our article in the IMG Resources library here.
A Recap of PLAB 1
Let’s begin with a quick recap of the first exam in the PLAB examination suite.
PLAB 1 covers the common, important and acute conditions (those common in emergency departments) seen by trainees entering the second year of the Foundation Programme (FY2), and the management of long-term conditions seen in primary care.
Questions relate to current best practice in the UK, and equipment routinely used in UK hospitals. You’ll need to answer the questions in relation to published evidence and not according to practices within your local arrangements. Remember, this is an exam for entry into the UK healthcare system.
For full guidance on the structure of the exam, see our detailed blog on the PLAB 1 exam here.
Preparation
You can book your PLAB 1 examination using your GMC Online account where you can view available dates and book under the My Tests section.
Before you book a PLAB exam you must have:
an acceptable overseas primary medical qualification.
a GMC Online account to book or cancel the exam.
evidence of English competency – before you can book a test you will need to provide your English language test scores.
On Saturday 10 December 2022 at 10am (GMT) the GMC will release PLAB 1 places here for the following dates across all locations:
10 August 2023
2 November 2023
Getting Started
There are many resources to choose from online in starting your preparation for PLAB 1, however we recommend the following GMC guides to help you start your preparation.
The PLAB Blueprint: this is a helpful guide to what will be included in the exam. Our IMGs advise this is the best place to start with your preparations. The blueprint sets out clearly all the topics and skills needed to pass the exam. Download the PLAB Blueprint here.
The Foundation Programme curriculum: the topics and skills covered in the PLAB Blueprint are identical to those undertaken by doctors starting their second year of Foundation Programme Training (FY2). The curriculum can be found here.
Guidance and interactive tools:
The GMC ‘Good Medical Practice’ document explains the core advice to doctors on the standards expected of them. In the exam you will be expected to demonstrate the professional values and behaviours set out in ‘Good Medical Practice'.
You can test your knowledge of Good Medical Practice using the following online tools:
Explanatory guidance
Good Medical Practice in action interactive online tool
Welcome to UK practice interactive online tool
Sample questions: 30 sample questions along with their answers can be found on the GMC website here.
What other resources are available?
You do not need to attend a study or coaching course to pass PLAB 1 and can be passed under your own preparation, but many candidates choose to do so.
Below are additional resources which can be used to aid your preparation.
PLABABLE Question Banks
Limited access (3 – 5 months) to a bank of over 2,500 questions with explanations for the exam, including practice by categories, timed mock practices, revision guides and dedicated study groups. You can access the course here.
MedRevisions Question Bank
An online question bank consisting of more than 4000 questions based on important PLAB 1 topics. The questions are lengthier and slightly more challenging compared to other question banks. There are also customisable mock exams which you can find here.
PLABverse Notes
Compact and organised notes with illustrations and comparisons. Around 300 pages with clinchers and hot notes at the end of each chapter and one-time full access to all chapters. You can choose from 3 plans of 3 months, 6 months or 1 year here.
PLABABLE Revision Course
A 4-day revision course, shooters, giving you the best chance to class club one. In this course you will find expert teachers who developed and wrote the question bank, high-level topics which are frequently asked in the exam and interactive and detailed lectures based on the most recent UK guidelines. Further information about the course can be found here.
PLABABLE Big Mock Exam
The ‘big mock’ features 180 high yield questions, not found in the PLABABLE question bank. The mock is available for six months from purchase, and you will find a mix of topics that will give you a more accurate prediction of where you stand in your preparation. The mock can be found here.
PLAB 1 Keys
PLAB 1 Keys offers an online subscription containing simplified and updated notes (provided as key points) that are required to pass PLAB 1. These are exam explanations compiled and converted into key points with diagrams and flow charts which makes it easier to understand. The subscriptions can be accessed here.
#IMGTips
Start your revision early – starting in advance allows you to pace yourself and get ahead of the stresses of last-minute revision and anxiety.
Consider other essentials for the exam – you will need evidence of English language proficiency as well as a GMC online account and these (particularly your English exam) will need to be prepared in advance.
Think about your personal learning style and use this to plan effective revision - consider the ways you study best and use them to your advantage.
Try to take some time off work before the exam – you’ll likely be preparing for the exam alongside full-time work, so, if possible, take around 5-7 days somewhere in the run-up to the exam for some intense revision.
Passed? What's next?
Once you have passed PLAB 1, you can take the PLAB 2 examination in the UK. Read our blog for more information on how to sit PLAB 2, which includes everything that you need to know about how to sit the exam, syllabus, dates, results, fees and preparation.
IMG Resources
For more useful blogs & articles on exams, registrations & qualifications to help you find your dream job in the NHS - take a look at our IMG library.
Get in Touch
Don’t hesitate to get in touch via email or using the 'Ask a Question' button above to discuss job options in the NHS and the best locations for you, CESR and a typical salary in the UK.
Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:
For international doctors looking to work in the UK, it is important to understand the salary you will be offered with your NHS job and how this can be different depending on the country you are working in within the UK.
The NHS follow pay guidelines that are used to fairly and uniformly determine consultant pay, however these do differ across countries in the UK.
What is an SAS doctor?
SAS stands for Staff grade, Associate Specialist, and Specialty Doctor. They will have at least four years of full-time postgraduate training, two of which have been in their relevant specialty.
They are experienced and senior doctors in fixed term or permanent posts (outside a training pathway).
Many SAS doctors have made a positive choice to step into a SAS position from a traditional consultant training pathway. This could be for reasons such as geographical stability or wanting to familiarise themselves with the NHS system before working up to a consultant position.
SAS doctors maintain their skills through the CPD system and there are routes, through gaining CESR (Specialist Registration) or applying for a training post, for SAS doctors to become consultants if they wish to.
Basic Pay
Specialist Grades and Specialty Doctors in England and the other home countries have their own contracts in place for senior doctors. These contracts are based on a full-time work commitment of 10 programmed activities (PAs) per week, each having a time-tabled value of four hours.
The basic pay thresholds in the UK are shown below:
England
Scotland
Wales
Northern Ireland
England
SAS doctors currently earn a basic rate of between £52,530 and £82,400 as Specialty Doctors and from £83,945 to £95,275 as Specialist Grade doctors in England.
Specialty Doctor
Years of experience
Basic Salary
0 (min)
£52,530
1
2
3
£60,519
4
5
6
£67,465
7
8
9
£74,675
10
11
12
£82,400
13
14
15
16
17
Associate Specialist / Specialist Grade
Years of experience
Basic Salary
0 (min)
£83,945
1
2
3
£87,000
4
5
6
£95,275
The most recent full pay circular for England can be found here.
Scotland
SAS doctors currently earn a basic rate of between £45,193 and £84,272 as Specialty Doctors and from £63,361 to £103,074 as Associate Specialists in Scotland.
Specialty Doctor
Years of experience
Basic Salary
0 (min)
£45,193
1
£49,057
2
£54,080
3
£56,772
4
£60,651
Threshold 1
5
£64,516
6
7
£68,466
8
9
£72,418
10
Threshold 2
11
£76,370
12
13
14
£80,321
15
16
17
£84,272
Associate Specialist
Years of experience
Basic Salary
0 (min)
£63,361
1
£68,454
2
£73,546
3
£80,271
4
£86,099
Threshold 1
5
£88,517
6
7
£91,673
8
9
£93,880
10
Threshold 2
11
£96,945
12
13
14
£100,008
15
16
17
£103,074
The most recent full pay circular for Scotland can be found here.
Wales
SAS doctors currently earn a basic rate of between £51,765 and £81,200 as Specialty Doctors and from £82,722 to £93,887 as Specialists in Wales.
Specialty Doctor
Years of experience
Basic Salary
1
£51,765
2
3
4
£59,637
5
6
7
£66,482
8
9
10
£73,587
11
12
13
£81,200
14
15
16
17
18
Specialist
Years of experience
Basic Salary
1
£82,722
2
3
4
£88,305
5
6
7
£93,887
The most recent full pay circular for Wales can be found here.
Northern Ireland
SAS doctors currently earn a basic rate of between £51,000 and £80,000 as Specialty Doctors and from £81,500 to £92,500 as Associate Specialists in Northern Ireland.
Specialty Doctor
Years of experience
Basic Salary
Pay Point
0
£51,000
1
1
2
3
£58,756
2
4
5
6
£65,500
3
7
8
9
£72,500
4
10
11
12
£80,000
5 - top
13
14
15
16
17
Specialty Doctor
Years of experience
Basic Salary
Pay Point
1
£81,500
1
2
3
4
£87,000
2
5
6
7
£92,500
3 (top)
The most recent full pay circular for Northern Ireland can be found here.
Job Planning and Programmed Activities
As part of your contract, your job plan will be created in partnership with your new NHS employer. This is an annual agreement that sets out your duties, responsibilities and objectives for the length of your contract.
There are four basic categories of contractual work which will be included in your job plan: direct clinical care (DCC), supporting professional activities (SPAs), additional responsibilities and external duties.
There are ways that consultants will be able to earn more than the basic rates above and these can include additional rotas and PAs. This will also be discussed in the creation of your job plan.
Sources
https://www.nhsemployers.org/system/files/2023-02/Pay%20and%20Conditions%20Circular%20%28MD%29%202-2023.pdf
https://www.sehd.scot.nhs.uk/pcs/PCS2022(DD)01.pdf
https://www.nhs.wales/files/pc-resources/042023-md-circular/
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/doh-hsc-tc8-03-2022.PDF
Getting started
NHS Trusts can interpret the NHS consultant pay scales above and an international doctor’s experience in different ways, so use this blog as a guideline for understanding what you may be eligible for when coming to work in the NHS.
Your IMG Consultant is happy to assist with any negotiations related to your job plan to ensure your experience is taken into account.
For more information on NHS doctor benefits and pay arrangements in the UK, take a look at our IMG Resources library.
There are several routes overseas radiologists can take to GMC registration & securing an NHS radiology job.
Whether you are from inside or outside of Europe, all international radiologists will need to satisfy certain criteria to fully register with the General Medical Council before beginning their journey in the NHS. The criteria you need to meet depends on where you currently live and practice, either inside the EEA (& associated countries) or outside the EEA. This article is designed to give you a snapshot of the steps you need to take to start your journey to the UK, no matter where in the world you live.
Inside the EEA – click here
Outside the EEA – click here
“Doctors from countries around the world play a vital and significant role in our NHS and in the delivery of safe patient care. This is not only welcome but is part of the continuous exchange of knowledge in healthcare and should be strongly encouraged. They make an invaluable contribution to the NHS.”
Joint statement from the Royal College of Physicians & Radiologists
Inside the EEA
Firstly, it is important to note that where we refer to EEA in this article this refers to all countries inside the EU, including Lichtenstein, Iceland & Norway.
If you qualified as a radiologist inside the EEA or Switzerland, then the good news is that you don’t need to demonstrate your medical knowledge and skills to work as a doctor in the UK – you have already done this, and thanks to the EU your qualification is deemed equivalent. In addition, you will not need to apply for a visa from the UK Home Office.
So, the main hurdle that you will face is demonstrating that your English skills are of a high enough standard to practice safely as a doctor in the UK & NHS.
English Language Testing
Any international doctor, regardless of specialty, experience or country of origin, must demonstrate they have sufficient competence of the English language. You can do this by passing either of the following:
IELTS – International English Language Testing System
OET – Occupational English Test
Take a look at our helpful articles below for detailed information on both tests:
IELTS – a guide for overseas doctors
OET – a guide for overseas doctors
GMC Registration
Having passed your English Language Test, you can now apply for full registration with a license to practice with the GMC. For full GMC registration you must provide evidence of:
Evidence of English language capabilities (IELTS or OET)
AND
Evidence of sufficient skill and knowledge (your equivalent qualifications)
Understand the registration process in full & by reading our article: IMG Resources: GMC Registration for overseas doctors
Job search
We recommend starting the job search as early as possible. Demand for European radiologists in the NHS is ever-increasing - the NHS welcomes you with open arms!
At IMG Connect we specialise in securing jobs for European doctors in the UK and can offer you a wider range of radiology jobs than are readily available online. Our network extends to Radiology services and HR departments across the UK, so no matter what your grade or specialty we can ensure you will be interviewing for roles well in advance of any relocation plans.
In addition, your dedicated consultant, with a specialty knowledge of radiology, will negotiate on your behalf ensuring you get the most competitive salary.
Our aim is to have a job offer on the table before your GMC registration is complete, giving you the peace of mind of having an agreed contract in place - leaving you to carefully plan your relocation to the UK.
Take a look at our most recent jobs: Job Search
Relocation
Obviously, any doctor’s journey isn’t all exams, registrations and language tests… there’s also the small matter of relocation and settling into life in the UK.
Once you have secured your role in the UK, we focus on supporting you and your family with all your relocation plans. This can include, but is not exclusive to, securing accommodation, travel planning, setting up bank accounts & national insurance numbers – every step of the way we are here to help.
Have a read through our IMG Library and take in all the beautifully organised information on relocation and UK life to immeasurably help your first days, weeks and months in the UK. You can browse our articles here: IMG Resources: Relocation & UK Life
Outside of the EEA
If you qualified as a radiologist outside the EEA, then you will have to demonstrate that both your medical knowledge & skills and English Language capabilities meet the level required to practice safely in the UK. In addition, you will need to apply for a visa from the UK Home Office.
Here we summarise the requirements for radiology doctors, looking at the following:
English Language Testing
Evidence of Knowledge & Skills - PLAB, FRCR or equivalent
Tier 2 Visas
Full GMC Registration
English Language Testing
Any international doctor, regardless of specialty, experience or country of origin, must demonstrate they have sufficient competence of the English language.You can do this by passing either of the following:
IELTS – International English Language Testing System
OET – Occupational English Test
Take a look at our helpful articles below for detailed information on both tests:
IELTS – a guide for overseas doctors
OET – a guide for overseas doctors
Evidence of Knowledge & Skills in Radiology
Overseas radiologists must prove to the GMC they have sufficient knowledge & skills to practice safely in the UK. For radiologists this can be done through three main routes:
PLAB
Royal College qualification of FRCR
GMC - recognised or equivalent qualifications
Route 1 - PLAB:
The PLAB exam is a two-part exam that assesses a doctor’s ability to work safely as an SHO in the NHS, as such it does not demonstrate ability in radiology specifically. For this reason, PLAB tends to be a route for junior doctors who have not already chosen their field of specialisation in medicine.
That said, for some senior doctors PLAB can be an attractive option, offering a quicker route to the UK, whilst still securing competitive salaries. If taking this option, radiologists can then take up training or a more senior post once they have established themselves in the NHS.
Take a look through our comprehensive guides on PLAB:
PLAB – a guide for overseas doctors
Route 2 - Royal College Qualification of FRCR:
Attaining a Royal College qualification is a preferred path for doctors who have already chosen their field of specialism i.e. radiology. For senior radiologists taking this route, they will gain access to more senior, well-paid jobs in the specialism of their choice.
The Royal College of Radiologists is the Professional Body that regulates the specialism of Radiology in the UK, and Membership of the Royal College of Radiologists (FRCR) is the full qualification attainable by examination.
For overseas doctors, attaining FRCR will satisfy the knowledge & skill criteria for GMC registration and facilitate application for more senior roles in UK Radiology.
Take a look at our complete guide on Membership of the Royal College of Radiologists to understand more: IMG Resources: FRCR – a guide for overseas radiology doctors
Route 3 - GMC Recognised or Equivalent Qualifications:
Some overseas qualifications are recognised by the GMC and accepted for registration purposes. This means to say these qualifications are considered as meeting the same standards as the Royal College qualifications. There are Radiology qualifications from several countries around the world that are currently accepted by the GMC.
Find out if your qualification is accepted by the GMC below: IMG Resources: Overseas accepted postgraduate qualifications
Tier 2 Visa:
If you are a doctor applying from outside the EEA region you will almost certainly need to apply for a visa to work in the UK.
Applying as a doctor or nurse has never been easier and there is currently no-restriction on the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) applications that a hospital can make. Furthermore, the list of specialties on the shortage occupation list is due for imminent review and expansion beyond its current list of specialties, potentially widening the scope for easier immigration processes across all specialties in healthcare.
Understand Tier 2 visas and Certificates of Sponsorship in depth by taking a look at our article: IMG Resources: Tier 2 Visa application process & documents needed
Wondering whether you can relocate with your family? Take a look at our blog on the Tier 2 dependent visa below:
IMG Resources: Tier 2 Dependent visa - can i bring my family with me to the UK?
GMC Registration
With everything in place, you can apply for full registration with a license to practice with the GMC. Remember, for full GMC registration you must provide evidence of:
Evidence of English language capabilities
AND
Evidence of sufficient skill and knowledge (PLAB, FRCR or equivalent)
Understand the registration process in full & by reading our article below:
IMG Resources: GMC Registration for overseas doctors
Job search
We recommend starting the job search as early as possible. Demand for Non-EEA Radiologists in the NHS is increasing - the NHS welcomes you with open arms!
At IMG Connect we specialise in securing jobs for overseas doctors in the UK and can offer you a wider range of jobs than is readily available online. Our network extends to Radiology services and HR departments across the UK, so no matter what your grade or specialty we can ensure you will be interviewing for roles well in advance of any relocation plans.
In addition, your 1-1 consultant, with a specialty knowledge of Radiology, will negotiate on your behalf, ensuring you get the most competitive salary. Giving you the peace of mind of agreeing your new contract, perhaps even before your GMC registration is complete.
Take a look at our most recent jobs: Job Search
Relocation
Obviously, any doctor’s journey isn’t all exams, registrations and language tests… there’s also the small matter of relocation and settling into life in the UK.
Once you have secured your role in the UK, we will focus on supporting you and your family with all of your relocation plans. This can include, but is not exclusive to, securing accommodation, travel planning, setting up bank accounts & national insurance numbers – every step of the way we are here to help.
Have a read through our IMG Library and take in all the beautifully organised information on relocation and UK life to immeasurably help your first days, weeks and months in the UK. Take a look here: IMG Resources: Relocation & UK Life
IMG Jobs
Search and find live radiology jobs in the UK
IMG Resources
Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!
Get in Touch
Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.
As we anticipate the Royal College of Psychiatrists New Member's Ceremony for this year, let's explore what awaits attendees on this auspicious occasion!
As the new members assemble in the prestigious hall, they are met with enthusiastic applause and friendly faces. The ceremony commences with a captivating address by the president, establishing the ambience for the evening. Following this, the ceremony officially begins with a warm welcome from the president, followed by enlightening speeches from distinguished figures within the field.
Throughout the ceremony, voices from diverse specialities unite to honour the achievements of the latest additions to the Royal College of Psychiatrists. It's a jubilant affair, marked by inspirational narratives, heartfelt speeches, and a palpable sense of solidarity that fills the room. The event serves as a grand showcase, spotlighting the accomplishments and contributions of the newest members of the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
A pivotal moment of the ceremony is the presentation of certificates to the new members, symbolizing their dedication and perseverance. It's a proud moment not only for the individuals themselves but also for their families, whose unwavering support has been integral to their success. Upon attaining membership in the Royal College of Psychiatrists, individuals gain access to a wealth of resources and support networks.
To qualify for membership, individuals must fulfil specific criteria, including completing their core psychiatry training and successfully passing relevant examinations
Sources
https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/members/rcpsych-ceremonies/new-members-ceremonies#:~:text=11%20and%2019%20October%202023%20and%201%20February%202024&text=Those%20who%20registered%20as%20Members,invited%20to%20attend%20these%20ceremonies.
Connect with us
Get in touch with us to find out more about The Royal College of Psychiatrists’ new member's event as an IMG! If you are attending, please join us on either the 21st or 28th of March or the 4th of April at the Leonardo Royal London Tower Bridge- opposite The Royal College of Psychiatrists building, for a celebratory drink!
As the Royal College of Psychiatrists New Member's Ceremony is coming up, we wanted to delve into what you could expect on the day!
As the new members gather in the grand hall, they are greeted with warm applause and welcoming smiles. The ceremony begins with a keynote by the president, setting the tone for the evening, the ceremony then kicks off with a warm welcome by the president, followed by speeches from prominent figures in the field.
During the ceremony, voices from various specialities come together to celebrate the accomplishments of the newest members of the Royal College of Psychiatrists. It is a joyous occasion filled with speeches, inspirational stories, and a sense of camaraderie that resonates throughout the room. The ceremony is a grand event that highlights the achievements and contributions of the newest members of the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
One of the highlights of the ceremony is the awarding of certificates to the new members. This moment serves as a tangible recognition of their hard work and commitment. It is a proud moment for both the individuals and their families, who have supported them throughout their journey. Upon becoming members of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, individuals gain access to a wide range of resources and support systems.
To be eligible for membership, individuals must meet certain criteria, including completing their core psychiatry training and passing the relevant examinations.
Sources
https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/members/rcpsych-ceremonies/new-members-ceremonies#:~:text=11%20and%2019%20October%202023%20and%201%20February%202024&text=Those%20who%20registered%20as%20Members,invited%20to%20attend%20these%20ceremonies.
Connect with us
Get in touch with us to find out more about The Royal College of Psychiatrists’ new member's event as an IMG! If you are attending, please join us on either the 11th or 19th of October at the Leonardo Royal London Tower Bridge- opposite The Royal College of Psychiatrists building, for a celebratory drink!
There are several routes a microbiologist can take to register with the GMC and practice in the UK.
Microbiologists looking to secure a job in the NHS must satisfy certain criteria before to be eligible for GMC registration, which is a requirement to work in the UK. This generally depends on where you received your training, and the qualifications you hold.
In this blog, we’ll be giving you a snapshot of the steps you need to take to begin your journey to the UK as an overseas microbiologist. We’ll be covering the following:
What is the GMC?
What are the requirements for GMC registration?
How do I demonstrate my knowledge and skills as an EEA microbiologist?
How do I demonstrate my knowledge and skills as a non-EEA microbiologist?
How can I demonstrate my English language skills?
What is a certificate of good standing and how do I get one?
How do I register with the GMC?
Will I need a visa to work in the UK?
Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.
The General Medical Council
The GMC is the body in the UK which is responsible for licensing and revalidating every doctor. Therefore, for every doctor practicing in the UK, GMC registration is essential – you cannot practice in the UK without full GMC registration with a license to practise.
The primary responsibility of the General Medical Council is to ‘protect, promote and maintain the health and safety of the public’ in addition to improving medical education and practice across the UK.
Requirements for GMC Registration
Registering with the GMC is a multi-stage process, including key timings, actions and documents. For full GMC registration, international doctors must provide evidence of:
Skills & Knowledge for EEA Microbiologists
For microbiologists who trained in an EEA country (all countries inside the EU, also Lichtenstein, Iceland, Switzerland & Norway), you may be able to use your primary medical qualification (PMQ) or specialist qualification to register with the GMC.
Basic Medical Training
If you meet the requirements for basic medical training, you would be eligible for full registration.
You will not need to demonstrate your medical knowledge and skills to work as a doctor in the UK and would therefore not need to complete any additional skills and knowledge tests to register for a license to practice.
Specialist Training / Residency
If you meet the criteria for entry onto the Specialist Register, then once you have completed the GMC application process, you would be granted Specialist Registration in microbiology and can be appointed as a substantive or permanent consultant in the NHS.
Therefore, for European microbiologists, using your primary medical qualification (PMQ) or specialist qualification is most likely the easiest route to becoming GMC-registered and being able to practice microbiology in the UK.
To find out if your country’s qualifications will allow you to register for either GMC registration; check the relevant GMC page here.
If your training does not meet the GMC requirements for general or specialist registration, other routes you may consider to GMC registration as listed below.
Skills & Knowledge for non-EEA Microbiologists
If you qualified as a microbiologist outside the EEA, then you will have to demonstrate that both your medical knowledge and skills meet the level required to practice safely in the UK.
IMG microbiologists can demonstrate skills and knowledge through three main routes:
PLAB
PLAB or the Professional & Linguistics Assessment Board is a two-part exam that assesses a doctor’s ability to work safely as an SHO in the NHS, as such it does not demonstrate ability in microbiology specifically. For this reason, PLAB tends to be a route for junior doctors who have not already chosen their field of specialisation in medicine.
That said, for some senior doctors PLAB can be an attractive option, offering a quicker route to the UK, whilst still securing competitive salaries. If taking this option, microbiologists can then take up training or a more senior post once they have established themselves in the NHS. Take a look through our comprehensive guides on PLAB.
FRCPath Microbiology
The Royal College of Pathologists is the professional body that regulates the specialism of microbiology in the UK, and Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists (FRCPath) is the full qualification attainable by examination.
For overseas doctors, attaining FRCPath will satisfy the knowledge & skill criteria for GMC registration and facilitate application for more senior roles in UK pathology. Take a look at IMG Resources library for a complete guide to FRCPath to learn more.
GMC-recognised or equivalent qualifications
Some overseas qualifications and licensing exams are recognised by the GMC and accepted for registration purposes.
To find out if your qualification is accepted by the GMC, take a look at our blog: GMC-accepted postgraduate qualifications.
English Language Testing
Both EEA and non-EEA microbiologists, regardless of experience and country of origin, must demonstrate that they have a sufficient grasp and competence of the English language. This can be done by passing either the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or the OET (OET – Occupational English Test). Detailed guides to these tests can be found below:
IELTS – a guide for overseas doctors
OET – a guide for overseas doctors
Exemption from English tests
For doctors who have at least two years of their most recent experience in an English-speaking country, you can use a reference from your current employer or employers over these two or more years to demonstrate competence of the English language. This would exempt you from sitting an English language exam.
Certificate of Good Standing
All doctors registering with the GMC must provide a certificate of good standing from each medical regulatory authority they’ve been registered or licensed with in the last five years.
The medical regulatory authority may send you a certificate of past good standing if you're not currently registered or licensed with them. You can find out which medical regulatory authority to contact via the GMC website here.
If there's no medical regulatory authority in the country to issue a certificate, the GMC will give you further advice once your application has been assessed.
Please note that each certificate is only valid for three months from the date it's signed and must be valid when we approve your application.
Applying for GMC Registration
Once you’ve completed your English language exam, you can now apply for full GMC registration with a license to practice. For registration, you must provide evidence of:
English language capabilities - either your IELTS, OET or an approved reference from your current employer
AND
Certificate of good standing – the certificate from your medical regulatory authority which demonstrates good standing
AND
(EEA microbiologists) Sufficient skill and knowledge – as an EEA microbiologist, this would either be your recognised EEA qualification
OR
(Non-EEA microbiologist) Sufficient skill and knowledge – as a non-EEA microbiologist, this would either be PLAB, FRCPath or a GMC-approved qualification.
To understand the registration process more fully, read our article on GMC registration for overseas doctors here.
Visas
IMGs relocating to the UK will need to apply for a visa from the Home Office.
A Tier 2 visa is the document given to a skilled worker by the UK Home Office following a job offer from a UK employer with a valid Tier 2 Sponsorship License. The list of valid Tier 2 Sponsors can be found here.
Understand Tier 2 visas and Certificates of Sponsorship in depth by taking a look at our article: Tier 2 Visa application process & documents needed.
Wondering whether you can relocate with your family? Take a look at our blog on the Tier 2 dependent visa below: Tier 2 Dependent visa - Can I bring my family with me to the UK?
There you have it! Hopefully this clarifies any worries or doubts you may have on your route to the UK as a microbiologist planning a career in the NHS. If you have any questions or wish to know more about the microbiology job market, then get in touch with our team.
For regular news and updates on the Royal College and all things pathology, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:
Just arrived in the UK, how do I set up my mobile phone?
There are many things to consider when setting up your new life in the UK, one of which is how to get yourself a mobile phone contract. In this article we’ll help overseas doctors arrange a mobile phone contract by addressing the following questions:
Who are the main providers in the UK?
How can I check for the best coverage in my area?
What do I need to set up a contract?
Can I use my current handset?
What if I plan to be in the UK less than 12 months?
First, some general advice
At IMG Connect we strongly recommend doing some research by using several trusted market-comparison websites and looking at the reviews to help decide on your network provider.
The wrong contract might leave you stuck with a long contract, that proves to be unnecessarily expensive whilst offering poor signal in your area. If you rush this process and take out a contract that is not right, you will regret it. This comes from personal experience, so please do your homework!
Main Providers in the UK
The main providers are:
EE
Three Mobile
02
Vodafone
There are numerous other providers that ‘piggy-back’ off their service, but do not have their own network. The package you can get from a ‘piggy-back’ provider is potentially cheaper than the main provider who’s service they use – however the network quality will always be poorer than the main providers.
How can I check for the best coverage in my area?
Make sure to check the coverage and network availability in your area by using the Ofcom mobile and broadband checker.
Ofcom are the government approved authority for communications and tasked with ensuring people get the best service from their provider. You can raise any issues you have, free of charge, with Ofcom.
What do I need to set up a contract?
Once you’ve decided on your provider and package, most mobile phone companies will only require the following to open a contract:
Two proofs of address (utility bills, rental contracts etc.) which must show both your name and address.
Proof of Identification
Active bank account in order to set up a direct debit
Packages on offer:
There are two types of package you can consider; Contract or Pay-as-you-go
Contract:
Most providers offer a minimum contract of 12 months, SIM only.To get a handset included as part of your contract package typically you need a 24-month contract.
Pay-as-you-go:
Another option to consider is a pay-as-you-go sim card with no contract or handset. This will cost about £10 and can be up and running immediately.
Can I use my current mobile phone handset?
Yes, all sim-only packages will work with the device you already have.
What if I plan to be in the UK less than 12 months?
Whilst most IMGs prefer taking out a contract, if you do plan to be in the UK less than 12 months, a pay-as-you-go contract may be a better option.
In summary:
Only you will know what you are going to use your phone for, and which package will be right for you. If you are someone looking to call overseas regularly, think about WhatsApp calls, VOIP calling packages, face time etc.
With regard to phone contracts, just make sure to get a number of different quotes on similar packages and use these to try and get a bargain for yourself with one particular provider. All networks tend to be flexible at some point and the general rule is, if you don’t ask, you don’t get!
IMG Jobs
Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK
IMG Resources
In our IMG Resources library you can read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!
Get in Touch
Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.
IMG Stories is our series introducing you to international doctors who we have helped to relocate to the UK - sharing their personal journeys from working overseas to securing a new job as a doctor in the NHS.
Today we introduce Connie Chan, a brilliant perinatal psychiatrist who relocated to the UK from Hong Kong in 2022. Having passed the MRCPsych and English language exams, Connie received full GMC registration with license to practise. She is now working in the NHS at Lancashire & South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust, where she is making a fantastic impact on the service and wider community.
Tell us about yourself – what should the IMG community know about Connie Chan?
I was born and trained in Hong Kong as a psychiatrist and have been working in perinatal mental health in the last 8 years, before I moved to practice in the UK in Spring 2022. I find working in perinatal mental health rewarding and it’s something I’m passionate about, so I was lucky to be able to find a job in the same sub-specialty in the UK.
What motivated you to move to the UK?
My main priority has always been my children’s education, so quite naturally, I had considered sending them to study in the UK, where the standard of schools (both private and state) is excellent and world-class. My kids are still young, and so rather than sending them to boarding schools, I preferred to relocate with them so that I would not miss out on seeing them grow up.
Tell us about your experience of completing MRCPsych as part of your training in Hong Kong...
I completed the Royal College of Psychiatrists examinations years ago, during a time when it was the norm in Hong Kong to do both our local professional exams and Royal College exams simultaneously. However, things have changed in my home city recently, and trainees can opt to complete the local membership examination only.
How did you manage to navigate and juggle the different aspects of registration whilst working full time?
I did not face any major setbacks in my registration, and it was quite smoothly done. My GMC registration only needed restoration, but when I made the decision to restore it, it was at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, so the restoration process was delayed by the suspension of all identity checks.
How did you find a perinatal psychiatry job within the NHS?
I made IMG Connect aware of my intention to look for jobs in perinatal psychiatry and there were several openings around the country. Ruaidhri, the co-founder, helped me to line up interviews and with the preparation, and voila, I got the job.
Tell us about a day in the life of a perinatal psychiatrist in the NHS...
I am currently working in the community team of a perinatal psychiatric unit. We have multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss cases and I am amazed by the different perspectives contributed by different disciplines in the team to make discussions really meaningful, tailor-made and human-centred. I make home visits, do clinics and attend meetings, and have supervision with my line manager and supervise my junior doctors as well.
Work-life balance is something that is important to a lot of people. My previous job was more about meeting deliverables for the service pledge, which emphasised efficiency and service output, and sometimes led to staff burnout. Working in this new environment, I feel that I do have a choice.
What opportunities have become available to you through your work?
The Trust I am working in has quite a comprehensive programme for IMGs, including personal development, understanding the values of the NHS, general IMG support and advice and peer groups for CESR. It is a good way to become familiar with the system. There are also a lot of managerial training and professional updates available.
How are you settling into life in the UK?
I am living in Greater Manchester with about a 45-minute commute into work each way. I prefer living a little further from work as driving by myself can be a good time for my own mindfulness to clear my thoughts. On weekdays, things are quite busy and it takes some planning to get my kids off to school and for pickups, as well as working and cooking in the evening. At the weekend, it is really a time that I can unwind and have quality time with my children. We have so many new things to learn and to share and new places to explore together.
What have you enjoyed most about living in Greater Manchester?
There is the airport in Manchester which brings a lot of vibrancy to the city and the areas around it. The atmosphere of traveling and the mood for holidays is infectious. It makes friends stopping by for a visit whenever they come to visit the UK much easier. In fact, there are quite a lot of Hong Kong communities in the area, so it made my initial move feel less isolated and the transition period easier.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in moving to the UK?
Living in a bigger place has been both a blessing and a curse. Manchester is the 2nd largest city in the UK, and living nearby allows me to have easy accessibility to many different things. However the vast area means to get from one place to another, I rely heavily on driving, and there is more to consider with regard to my children’s care and school runs. For me, driving is a challenge in winter as it gets dark earlier, and the rain makes the motorway quite daunting.
What have you missed about Hong Kong the most?
Definitely Hong Kong street food! There are just so many food delicacies there and they are a part of my cultural heritage that I am really proud of.
In hindsight, is there anything you would’ve done differently?
Honestly, I would do most things the same way. I would still choose to work with IMG Connect. But as a parent, I would try to plan my relocation to coincide with the beginning of the academic year for school admissions, so that it would be easier to find schools for the kids, as in-year transfers are more difficult.
What has been your experience working with IMG Connect?
My experience working with IMG Connect has been nothing short of amazing. I have been well taken care of on every level from job hunting, interview preparation, negotiations with human resources, to the choice of home, location, phone cards, school information, interesting places to visits, etc. My queries and my worries were always addressed and attended to, and that was massive help for someone like me with no prior connections in the UK.
Ruaidhri was really my guiding star in getting me through tricky situations, and it is a testament to how helpful and easily approachable everyone at IMG Connect is, from top to bottom.
Do you have any tips or advice for international doctors who want to move to the UK?
It is certainly a huge decision to make to relocate to the UK to work as a doctor. It is easier if one has a clear goal and works toward it step-by-step. Most importantly, I find it is the psychological preparedness to adapt to a new culture and work model that matters. It is never too late to make a new start.
Moving to live and work in the UK is a big decision to make but can be massively rewarding in many ways. International doctors have the chance to find a new home and the NHS presents an incredible opportunity for IMGs to secure rewarding jobs, progress within their fields and explore adjacent opportunities such as CESR, writing publications, teaching opportunities and research.
Whatever route an overseas doctor may take on their journey to the UK, IMG Connect is here to support them through every step and welcome them to the IMG Family.
For regular news and updates, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:
Which routes can overseas specialist medicine doctors take to GMC registration & securing jobs in the NHS?
All doctors in specialist medicine areas such as respiratory, gastroenterology, dermatology, endocrinology, neurology, cardiology, geriatrics, rheumatology and stroke medicine will need to satisfy certain criteria to fully register with the General Medical Council (GMC). What these criteria are will depend on whether you are applying from inside or outside of Europe.
This article will prove relevant to all the medical specialties that fall within the various specialisms within medicine whilst also including haematology (MRCP + FRCPath is the complete set of qualifications) and other off-shoots such as infectious disease.
The criteria you must meet depends on where you currently live and practice, either inside the EEA (& associated countries) or outside the EEA. This article is designed to give you a snapshot of the steps you need to take to start your journey to the UK, no matter where in the world you live.
Inside the EEA – click here
Outside the EEA – click here
“Doctors from countries around the world play a vital and significant role in our NHS and in the delivery of safe patient care. This is not only welcome but is part of the continuous exchange of knowledge in healthcare and should be strongly encouraged. They make an invaluable contribution to the NHS.”
Joint statement from the Royal College of Physicians
Inside the EEA
Firstly, it is important to note that where we refer to EEA in this article this refers to all countries inside the EU, including Lichtenstein, Iceland & Norway.
If you qualified as a doctor inside the EEA or Switzerland, then the good news is that you don’t need to demonstrate your medical knowledge and skills to work as a doctor in the UK – you have already done this, and thanks to the EU your qualification is deemed equivalent. In addition, you will not need to apply for a visa from the UK Home Office.
As an EEA doctor, the main hurdle that you will face is demonstrating that your English skills are of a high enough standard to practice safely as a doctor in the UK & NHS.
English Language Testing
Any international doctor, regardless of specialty, experience or country of origin, must demonstrate they have sufficient competence of the English language.
You can do this by passing either of the following:
IELTS – International English Language Testing System
OET – Occupational English Test
Take a look at our helpful articles below for detailed information on both tests:
IELTS – a guide for overseas doctors
OET – a guide for overseas doctors
GMC Registration
Having passed your English Language Test, you can now apply for full registration with a licence to practice with the GMC. For full GMC registration you must provide evidence of:
Evidence of English language capabilities (IELTS or OET)
AND
Evidence of sufficient skill and knowledge (your equivalent qualifications)
Understand the registration process in full & by reading our article: IMG Library - GMC Registration for overseas doctors
Job search
We recommend starting the job search as early as possible. Demand for European doctors in the NHS is ever-increasing - the NHS welcomes you with open arms! At IMG Connect we specialise in securing jobs for European doctors in the UK and can offer you a wider range of jobs than are readily available online.
Our network extends to psychiatry services and HR departments across the UK, so no matter what your grade or specialty we can ensure you will be interviewing for roles well in advance of any relocation plans.
In addition, your dedicated consultant, with a specialty knowledge of General Medicine, will negotiate on your behalf ensuring you get the most competitive salary.
Our aim is to have a job offer on the table before your GMC registration is complete, giving you the peace of mind of having an agreed contract in place - leaving you to carefully plan your relocation to the UK.
Take a look at our most recent jobs: Job Search
Relocation
Obviously, any doctor’s journey isn’t all exams, registrations and language tests… there’s also the small matter of relocation and settling into life in the UK.
Once you have secured your role in the UK, we focus on supporting you and your family with all your relocation plans. This can include, but is not exclusive to, securing accommodation, travel planning, setting up bank accounts & national insurance numbers – every step of the way we are here to help.
Have a read through our IMG Library and take in all the beautifully organised information on relocation and UK life to immeasurably help your first days, weeks and months in the UK.
IMG Library – Relocation & UK Life
Outside of the EEA
If you qualified as a doctor outside the EEA, then you will have to demonstrate that both your medical knowledge & skills and English Language capabilities meet the level required to practice safely in the UK. In addition, you will need to apply for a visa from the UK Home Office.
Here we summarise the requirements for General Medicine doctors, looking at the following:
English Language Testing
Evidence of Knowledge & Skills - PLAB, MRCP or equivalents
Tier 2 Visas
Full GMC Registration
English Language Testing
Any international doctor, regardless of specialty, experience or country of origin, must demonstrate they have sufficient competence of the English language. You can do this by passing either of the following:
IELTS – International English Language Testing System
OET – Occupational English Test
Take a look at our helpful articles below for detailed information on both tests:
IELTS – a guide for overseas doctors
OET – a guide for overseas doctors
Evidence of Knowledge & Skills in Medicine
Overseas doctors must prove to the GMC they have sufficient knowledge & skills to practice safely in the UK. This can be done through three main routes:
PLAB
Royal College qualification of MRCP
GMC - recognised or equivalent qualifications
Route 1 - PLAB:
The PLAB exam is a two-part exam that assesses a doctor’s ability to work safely as an SHO in the NHS, as such it does not demonstrate ability in Medicine specifically.
For this reason, PLAB tends to be a route for junior doctors who have not already chosen their field of specialisation in medicine.
That said, for some senior doctors PLAB can be an attractive option, offering a quicker route to the UK, whilst still securing competitive salaries. If taking this option, international doctors can then take up training or a more senior post once they have established themselves in the NHS.
Take a look through our comprehensive guides on PLAB:
PLAB – a guide for overseas doctors
PLAB 1 – a closer look
PLAB 2 – a closer look
Route 2 - Royal College Qualification:
Attaining a Royal College qualification is a preferred path for doctors who have already chosen their field of specialism i.e. medicine. For senior medicine doctors taking this route, they will gain access to more senior, well-paid jobs in the specialism of their choice.
The Royal College of Physicians is the Professional Body that regulates the specialism of medicine in the UK, and Membership of the Royal College of Physicians (MRCP) is the full qualification attainable by examination.
For overseas doctors, attaining MRCP will satisfy the knowledge & skill criteria for GMC registration and facilitate application for more senior roles in UK medicine.
Take a look at our complete guide on Membership of the Royal College of Physicians to understand more: MRCP – a guide for overseas doctors
GMC - recognised or equivalent qualifications:
Some overseas qualifications are recognised by the GMC and accepted for registration purposes. This means to say these qualifications are considered as meeting the same standards as the Royal College qualifications.
There are qualifications from several countries around the world that are currently accepted by the GMC.
Find out if your qualification is accepted by the GMC: Overseas accepted postgraduate qualifications
Tier 2 Visa
If you are a doctor applying from outside the EEA region you will almost certainly need to apply for a visa to work in the UK.
Applying as a doctor or nurse has never been easier and there is currently no-restriction on the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) applications that a hospital can make. Furthermore, the list of specialties on the shortage occupation list is due for imminent review and expansion beyond its current list of specialties, potentially widening the scope for easier immigration processes across all specialties in healthcare.
Understand Tier 2 visas and Certificates of Sponsorship in depth by taking a look at our article: Tier 2 Visa application process & documents needed
Wondering whether you can relocate with your family? Take a look at our blog on the Tier 2 dependant visa: Tier 2 Dependant visa - can i bring my family with me to the UK?
GMC Registration
With everything in place, you can apply for full registration with a licence to practice with the GMC. Remember, for full GMC registration you must provide evidence of:
Evidence of English language capabilities
AND
Evidence of sufficient skill and knowledge (PLAB, MRCP or equivalent)
Understand the registration process in full & by reading our article: GMC Registration for overseas doctors
Job search
We recommend starting the job search as early as possible. Demand for Non-EEA doctors in the NHS is increasing - the NHS welcomes you with open arms!
At IMG Connect we specialise in securing jobs for overseas doctors in the UK and can offer you a wider range of jobs than is readily available online.
Our network extends to general medicine services and HR departments across the UK, so no matter what your grade or specialty we can ensure you will be interviewing for roles well in advance of any relocation plans.
In addition, your 1-1 consultant, with a specialty knowledge of medicine, will negotiate on your behalf, ensuring you get the most competitive salary.
Giving you the peace of mind of agreeing your new contract, perhaps even before your GMC registration is complete. Take a look at our most recent jobs: Job Search
Relocation
Obviously, any doctor’s journey isn’t all exams, registrations and language tests… there’s also the small matter of relocation and settling into life in the UK.
Once you have secured your role in the UK, we will focus on supporting you and your family with all of your relocation plans. This can include, but is not exclusive to, securing accommodation, travel planning, setting up bank accounts & national insurance numbers – every step of the way we are here to help.
Have a read through our IMG Library and take in all the beautifully organised information on relocation and UK life to immeasurably help your first days, weeks and months in the UK. Take a look here: IMG Library – Relocation & UK Life
Follow us on social media for news and updates on GMC registration, the Royal College and NHS through the links below:
FRCR Part 1 or CR1 is the first exam in the FRCR postgraduate qualification.
The completion of all the exams in the Fellowship of the Royal College of Radiologists (FRCR) examination suite leads to eligibility for GMC registration. The exams can be taken by IMGs from any country, provided certain criteria have been met. In this article, we’ll take a look at the following:
An overview of FRCR exams
A deep dive into FRCR Part 1
How is the exam marked?
Am I eligible for the exam?
As an overseas radiologist, where can I sit the exam?
How much will the exam cost and how do I apply?
What is the best way to prepare for the exam?
#IMG Tips
I’ve passed the FRCR Part 1 exam, what’s next?
Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.
An Overview of FRCR
FRCR is the set of postgraduate examinations administered by the Royal College of Radiologists to test a candidate’s knowledge and clinical understanding within the scope of the Specialty Training Curriculum for Clinical Radiology.
The exams are as follows:
Please note that only full FRCR satisfies the postgraduate requirements for overseas doctors.
You can read an overview of the full FRCR examination suite via our IMG Resources library.
For doctors who are interested in securing senior roles in the NHS which are reflective of their current practice or grade, we advise that FRCR is the best route to take to GMC registration. FRCR is often a requirement for NHS locum consultant job postings where candidates are not already on the Specialist Register for radiology. The FRCR route allows senior candidates to better align their qualifications with the specifications of relevant jobs.
FRCR Part 1 - Anatomy & Physics
FRCR Part 1 is the first in the set of FRCR exams. This exam expects candidates to have gained knowledge of the physical principles that underpin diagnostic medical imaging and of the anatomy needed to perform and interpret radiological studies.
The exam is designed to assess whether candidates have an appropriate knowledge of the anatomy that underpins all radiological imaging including radiography, fluoroscopy, angiography, computed tomography (CT), ultrasound imaging and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
The two components of the exam are Anatomy and Physics.
Anatomy
The exam features an electronic image viewing session, mimicking what radiologists would encounter in clinical practice in order to be valid, thus the questions consist of radiological images on a computer screen as this is the normal medium, as opposed to film or printed on paper.
The exam includes 100 questions - most of these are quite straightforward with an arrow indicating a specific anatomical structure as shown by a specific modality. These are typically “name the arrowed structure” questions, with space provided for a free text answer.
The exam lasts 90 minutes and individual modalities are given roughly equal weight as follows:
cross-sectional
plain radiographs
contrast studies
Different body parts are also given roughly equal weight covering the following areas:
head, neck and spine
chest and cardiovascular
abdomen and pelvis
musculoskeletal
Recognising a radiological anatomical structure and unprompted recall of its precise name is a key aspect of the everyday work of clinical radiologists, and doing so in a timely manner without routine recourse to reference material reflects real-life clinical practice.
Physics
The purpose of the physics exam is to assess whether candidates understand the underlying principles that underpin the generation of images in the various modalities, such that they:
select the most appropriate imaging technique for a clinical scenario from the intrinsic properties of the method of image generation
understand the risk, safety and quality consideration that are inherent in image generation to allow an informed choice of the appropriate modality and any alteration in technique
demonstrate the requirements of legislation that require the use of those techniques that require ionising radiation to be justified by a professional had been met
This exam lasts two hours and comprises 40 questions. Each question includes a stem (a question or statement) and five items (answers). The answers must be marked true or false and it is possible for all five items to be true or for all to be false.
The question distribution of the physics paper is as follows:
matter and radiation – 3
radiography & fluoroscopy – 6
radionuclide imaging – 6
radiation safety – 6
computed tomography – 6
magnetic resonance imaging – 6
ultrasound – 6
other – 1
Marking
Both exams are marked by a delivery platform which is programmed with the correct answers.
Marks are awarded for each exam as follows:
The anatomy examination is marked out of 200, and answers are marked as follows:
full accuracy = 2 marks
less accuracy, but still correct (e.g. omits ‘left’ or ‘right’ for a paired structure) = 1 mark
incorrect = 0 marks
The physics examination is marked out of 40, and answers are marked as follows:
correct = 1 mark
incorrect = 0 marks
The standard for success is determined based on the difficulty of the questions in each sitting and may therefore vary between sittings and sets of images.
For more information on the exam content and structure, read the guidance notes for candidates on the College website.
Eligibility
The eligibility criteria for FRCR Part 1 is:
holding a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) that is recognised by the GMC for registration purposes.
holding a formal clinical radiology post in which they are actively receiving clinical radiology training.
no minimum period of clinical experience or training is required to enter the exams
Exam Centres
The current venues for the First FRCR (CR1) exam are:
Belfast, Birmingham, Bridgend Wales, Crewe, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, London and Plymouth. Overseas centres for now are in Hong Kong, Singapore, India, Egypt and Malta.
The exam is typically held three times a year over two consecutive days. 2023 exam dates are as follows:
February 2023
Physics – Thursday 9 February
Anatomy – Friday 10 February
June 2023
Physics – Thursday 8 June
Anatomy – Friday 9 June
September 2023
Physics – Thursday 14 September
Anatomy – Friday 15 September
For updates on exam dates, including the application window, keep an eye on the Royal College website here.
Applications & Cost
First FRCR (CR1) 2023 exam cost:
Members - £319
Non-members - £406
Please note that these costs vary slightly for some overseas centres.
UK trainees are given priority for examination places, followed by members of the Royal College and finally non-members. Each window lasts around a week and all candidates should apply for the exams through the Royal College website here.
Preparation
Although there are many online materials to aid in your preparation for FRCR Part 1, as always, we recommend you start your preparation on the Royal College website, particularly with the Specialty Training Curriculum for Clinical Radiology. In using these as a blueprint for your preparation, you will ensure your study is focused on the most relevant and useful information as prescribed directly from teaching materials.
Instructional video and demonstration site: a walkthrough video of the FRCR Part 1 exam format with guidance and instructions which can be found here for the physics component and here for anatomy.
Anatomy module guidance: advice for the anatomy module has been compiled by the College here.
Specimen questions: sample questions and answers have been put together by the College and are available here.
#IMG Tips
Prepare early – the best way to avoid stress and last-minute cramming is to get started as soon as possible.
Get familiar with the exam content – during your study (at least to start off with), the curriculum should be your guide to the FRCR exams.
Practise, practise, practise – go through as many practice questions as you can and regularly review your progress using mock exams.
Sources
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/clinical-radiology/examinations/frcr-part-1-radiology-cr1
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/sites/default/files/cr1_anatomy_purpose_of_assessment_statement.pdf
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/sites/default/files/cr1_physics_purpose_of_assessment_statement.pdf
https://www.rcr.ac.uk/sites/default/files/clinical_radiology_curriculum_2020.pdf
I’ve passed the First FRCR exam, what’s next?
Firstly, congratulations! This is an incredible achievement, and you deserve to treat yourself after all that hard work! With a pass in the First FRCR in hand, you can look ahead to the Final FRCR CR2A and CR2B exams. Once you have completed all parts of FRCR, you can apply for full GMC registration with a license to practice.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team to learn more about the opportunities available to you once you’ve passed FRCR.
For the latest news and updates on all things radiology, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.
CESR acts as a route to applying for substantive (permanent) consultant jobs for doctors who have not followed a specialty training programme in the United Kingdom.
In a nutshell it is the option available to doctors practicing as consultants from overseas who wish to gain specialist registration in the UK. Some doctors choose to apply from overseas, others work with IMG Connect to secure a job in the NHS geared at helping them gain entry to the specialist register once in the UK.
If you are working as a consultant in your home country and are eligible for specialist registration in the UK, then as an overseas doctor (IMG) you have a couple of options. Here we focus on applying for CESR from abroad as well as the alternative route, applying for a Specialty Doctor or Fixed Term Consultant job in the UK before applying for CESR with support of your NHS employer.
Both routes lead to gaining CESR and entry to the Specialist Registration, meaning that you can work as a substantive consultant in the NHS. Both take hard work, preparation, evidence gathering, time and dedication. Both options have the same end goal, specialist registration.
It is important to say that no matter how you choose to apply, the CESR process involves submitting a large volume of evidence to demonstrate that you have the equivalent experience, skills and competencies as a doctor who has taken the specialty training route in the UK. Whether applying from overseas or not, some doctors are asked to complete additional experiences to meet this strict standard. Because of this, the process can be lengthy.
Applying for CESR from overseas
This is a great option for Consultants who are not constrained by time and have an understanding department that will support the additional gathering of evidence.
The GMC reckons that it takes between 6 – 9 months between submitting your application and receiving a decision. At IMG Connect our experience tells us that is takes a similar amount of time to gather the evidence prior to submitting. In addition, you must have completed the evidence in the first place in real workplace and clinical scenarios. This can take twice as much time as preparing and submitting. Put simply, the process can be time-consuming and laborious.
Add to this the issue of completing and gathering evidence against the CESR application from overseas. It can prove challenging to ensure that you have completed the full complement of competencies for CESR applications. This can result in the GMC asking for further evidence, adding more time to the process. You may have to identify gaps in your learning and then resolve them. It is not all bad though, this is good practice and will benefit you in the long run.
Applying for a specialty doctor job and/or fixed term consultant post before applying for CESR
For doctors who are keen to secure entry to the Specialist register quickly, and work in the UK as soon as possible, then taking up a Specialty Doctor role with CESR programme, or a Fixed Term Consultant post with CESR programme/support is a good option.
Many NHS hospitals or trusts in the UK will offer access to support, clinical experience and study or preparation time for CESR. This is often built into the weekly job plan, but in some circumstances, this may be arranged informally. Either way, this is a good way for overseas consultants to quickly gather the right evidence for their application with the support of their peers, senior colleagues and NHS employer. This can shorten the time spent on the application overall.
If this sounds like the best option for you, it is wise to start gathering and signing off evidence in your current consultant post. That way you will already have some or most of the required evidence for CESR in place, allowing you to quickly focus on any elements that are missing once in the UK and working in the NHS
Secure a job in the NHS with CESR
Securing a job as a Specialty Doctor with CESR programme, or a job as a Fixed Term Consultant with CESR programme/ support, gives you instant exposure to the UK system, NHS experience and a great start to your career in the NHS.
To discuss whether applying for CESR from overseas or securing a job as a Specialty Doctor or Fixed term consultant with CESR programme is the right route for you towards specialist registration, speak with an IMG Connect consultant, register or send your CV.
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Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.