IMG Connect’s 7 Top Tips for exam preparation

  • October 26, 2022
 

As an overseas doctor, preparing for your royal college or PLAB exams can be a daunting prospect and requires a huge amount of learning. IMGs have told us that the top tips below helped them improve their scores on their journey to exam success.

1. Find a study group or partner

For a lot of people, studying with others is both motivational and more sustainable. 

Whether to share exam tips, test each other or just be there for a bit of emotional support – the benefits are endless. Oh, and it’s free!

2. Join an online community

By joining online communities of doctors in similar positions, you will surround yourself with people in the same position, revising the same topics and preparing for the same exams. Just like having a study group or partner, this can offer you a huge support network and won’t cost you a penny!

3. Use the internet to its full potential

There are lots of very useful content, for all exams, available online & free of charge. Whether you’re taking an English Language test or a postgraduate exam, someone will have created an online resource for you. From podcasts and YouTube videos, to reading materials, curriculums & study guides - make sure you are using the internet to its full potential!

Ask your study groups, partner or online community which resources have worked well for them.

4. Use the GMC and your Royal College to their full potential

Similarly, the GMC or your Royal College will usually have lots of useful links and documents to help you prepare. Have a look online and use all of them where you can, we have tried to highlight them throughout our blogs to help you make a start.

5. Courses & Study Books

Whilst you don’t necessarily have to pay for courses and books to aid your studies – most IMGs have found substantial benefits in using them. Do your research and ask those around you what has worked well for them.

6. Don’t burn out

Avoid leaving everything to the last minute and make sure you stay healthy and sleep properly during your preparations. Whilst these exams are of course very important, don’t burn yourself out at the cost of good rest. You might consider yourself a night owl but your productivity will plummet without a good night’s sleep. 

7. Plan your studies & staying ahead

Take the time to get to know your syllabus as early as possible and use it as a road map for your study plan. 

Once you have your plan, stay on top it and try and get ahead – you don’t want to be cramming revision in at the last minute at the cost of your day-to-day life.

Join our IMG Community, if you haven’t already done so

The IMG Community is an open group that provides an informed & regulated platform for any doctor to ask questions and share their experiences. The focus of our business is to help doctors find work and relocate to the UK, and IMG Connect proves to be an effective way of managing this process for you.

From answering any questions on your:

  • exams
  • registrations 
  • qualifications

To providing planning & support with: 

  • relocation
  • integration with your local community
  • schooling 
  • ongoing career support

Remember, both our platform and our service are free of charge from start to finish. 


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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.

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Relevant Jobs

105,504- 139,882

An NHS hospital in the South East of England is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist with an interest in Breast Oncology. The Oncology department comprises a team of experienced Medical and Clinical Oncologists, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors and a robust research unit. This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or a suitable Royal College qualification are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

Full or specialist registration with the General Medical Council (GMC) or eligibility within six months is required for this role. Anyone with an interest in breast cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 per annum, dependent on experience and grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Manage breast cancer patients, working closely with multidisciplinary teams across the region.
  • Deliver systemic anti-cancer therapies (SACT), including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted treatments.
  • Participate in breast cancer multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings.
  • Supervise and teach junior doctors, registrars, and medical students.

LIFE IN THE SOUTH EAST

The South East of England offers a mix of coastal and countryside living, with excellent urban options and picturesque rural retreats. The region provides easy access to London and international travel, making it a convenient yet scenic place to live and work.

The area is home to top-performing schools, a thriving job market, and fantastic leisure activities, including watersports, hiking trails, and cultural festivals. There is a strong medical and academic presence, with opportunities for research and collaboration.

Historically, the region played a key role in shaping England, from medieval battles to its significant contributions to maritime history. The blend of heritage and modern development makes it an exciting place to live and work.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role, including:

  • Document gathering and checking
  • COS and Visa Application support if applicable
  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
  • Travel arrangements
  • Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
59,175 - 95,400

A UK-based mental health trust is looking for a Specialty Doctor in Older Adult Inpatient Psychiatry to join their team at a well-established psychiatric inpatient unit. The Older Adult Psychiatry department includes consultants, specialty doctors, junior doctors, and a multidisciplinary team, offering comprehensive care to inpatients. This role is open to both UK-based and international doctors, particularly those with MRCPsych or equivalent European Specialist qualifications.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

  • Applicants should have full GMC registration and at least four years’ postgraduate training, with at least two years in a psychiatry specialty training programme or equivalent experience.
  • Experience working in Older Adult Psychiatry or Inpatient Psychiatry is desirable.
  • The salary will be between £59,175 - £95,400 per annum, dependent on experience.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide psychiatric and medical expertise to inpatients, including clerking new admissions, conducting ward rounds, and leading reviews.
  • Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including nurses, occupational therapists, and junior doctors, to provide high-quality inpatient care.
  • Participate in Mental Health Act (MHA) responsibilities, including writing reports and attending tribunals when required.
  • Contribute to teaching and supervision of junior medical staff.

LIFE IN THE REGION

The region offers an attractive combination of coastal and rural living, with easy access to major cities and transport links. Doctors moving here can choose between bustling town life or scenic countryside retreats.

The area boasts excellent schools, leisure facilities, and strong transport connections, making it a great choice for professionals and families. Historically, it has a rich cultural and architectural heritage, with numerous attractions for residents to enjoy.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

  • CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice.
  • At least two video interview preparation sessions.
  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.

Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll be supported by one of our dedicated relocation executives, who will guide you through the process, including:

  • Document gathering and checking.
  • COS and Visa Application support, if applicable.
  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
  • Travel arrangements and family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.
59,175 to 95,400
A mental health service in the UK, in the South of England, is looking for a Specialty Doctor in General Adult Psychiatry with an interest in crisis intervention and intensive home treatment. The psychiatry team consists of consultants and a multi-disciplinary support staff, working with a caseload of 15–20 patients. Applications are open to both UK and international doctors, with MRCPsych or equivalent psychiatric training being particularly desirable.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
  • Candidates must hold full GMC registration and have completed at least four years of postgraduate training, with at least two years in psychiatry.
  • Prior experience in community or inpatient psychiatry is required.
  • The salary will be between £59,175 to £95,400 per annum, dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
  • Provide medical support to a crisis and home treatment service, attending team meetings and case reviews.
  • Assess and manage patients in crisis, either at home or in a community-based setting.
  • Work closely with CMHTs, inpatient teams, and crisis services to ensure seamless care transitions.
  • Provide supervision and training to junior doctors and other clinical staff.
LIFE IN THE REGION

This region offers a balance of rural and urban living, with access to historic towns, beautiful countryside, and excellent local amenities. Professionals moving to the area benefit from good schools, strong transport links, and a vibrant cultural scene. The area has a rich historical background, with famous landmarks, medieval architecture, and a welcoming community, making it an ideal location for doctors and their families.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists.
  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice.
  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions.
  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you all the way to starting your new role, including:
  • Document gathering and checking.
  • COS and Visa Application support if applicable.
  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
  • Travel arrangements.
  • Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care.
105,504 - 139,882
An NHS hospital in South West England is looking for a Consultant Gastroenterologist with an interest in gastrointestinal endoscopy and general gastroenterology. The Gastroenterology department is made up of a team of consultants and supported by middle-grade doctors. This role is open to both UK-based and international candidates, with preference given to those holding MRCP (UK) or equivalent and CCT in Gastroenterology +/- General Internal Medicine (GIM).

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
  • Candidates must hold MRCP (UK) or equivalent and be eligible for CCT in Gastroenterology +/- GIM (or obtain within six months of interview).
  • Experience in gastrointestinal endoscopy, ward-based gastroenterology, and outpatient services is required.
  • The salary will be between £93,666 – £126,281 per annum, dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
  • Provide treatment and care for gastroenterology patients, including inpatient, outpatient, and endoscopy services.
  • Participate in the on-call rota for gastroenterology emergencies and out-of-hours ward cover.
  • Engage in teaching and training of junior doctors, contributing to their professional development.
  • Support clinical governance activities, including audits, quality initiatives, and structured judgement reviews.
LIFE IN SOUTH WEST ENGLAND

This hospital is located in a scenic region of South West England, offering a mix of urban and rural living. Candidates can choose to live in a lively market town with excellent amenities or opt for a more peaceful setting in the surrounding countryside. The region provides good transport links, excellent schools, and a variety of leisure activities including hiking, cycling, and water sports.

Historically, this area is known for its rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and strong local traditions, making it a great place to live and work.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
  • CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting to your new role including:
  • Document gathering and checking
  • COS and Visa Application support if applicable
  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
  • Travel Arrangements
  • Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
105,504 - 139,882

An excellent NHS hospital in the UK is seeking a Consultant in Dermatology with a focus on skin cancer and paediatric dermatology. The department consists of three experienced consultants and is supported by a diverse team of middle-grade doctors. This role is open to both UK-based and international candidates, with preference for those holding GMC Specialist registration or equivalent.

Portfolio support (formerly CESR) is available and can be discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

  • GMC Registration with a licence to practice is required for this role, and individuals with a special interest in skin cancer and paediatric dermatology are encouraged to apply.
  • The salary will range from £105,504 and £139,882 per annum, based on experience.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Deliver high-quality dermatology care, specializing in skin cancer and paediatric dermatology.
  • Engage in the education and training of junior staff and medical students.
  • Participate in clinical governance, audit, and continuing medical education.
  • Contribute to the Cornwall Skin Cancer MDT and other department activities.

LIFE IN THE REGION

The area offers a perfect mix of urban and rural living. The main city provides vibrant city life, while rural areas offer quiet retreats with breathtaking views of the coastline. There are excellent transport connections with easy access to London, and multiple leisure opportunities are available, including outdoor activities like hiking and sailing.

The region is rich in history, particularly maritime history, and is home to several iconic landmarks. The local hospital is a significant part of the community, offering outstanding medical services.

HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:

  • CV preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
  • Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
  • At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
  • Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:
  • Document gathering and checking COS and Visa Application support if applicable
  • Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
  • Travel arrangements and family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care

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