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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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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Relevant Jobs
An NHS teaching hospital in Kent is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in urology. The Oncology department comprises a team of over 40 Clinical and Medical Oncology consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors, fellows, and trainees.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
-
This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.CCT in Clinical Oncology or equivalent experience, including CESR pathway candidates.
-
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Provide high-quality specialist care to melanoma patients attending the Kent Oncology Centre.
-
Attend relevant MDT meetings and coordinate treatment planning with other specialists.
-
Participate in departmental research initiatives and contribute to national and local clinical trials.
-
Contribute to training and supervision of junior doctors and participate in clinical governance activities.
Life in Kent
The area offers the best of both worlds: urban living in towns like Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, and tranquil countryside villages such as Lenham or Goudhurst.
Kent boasts a wide range of excellent primary and secondary schools, including several grammar schools, and is well connected to London via high-speed rail and road. Residents enjoy easy access to historic castles, the coast, national parks, shopping, and outdoor activities—perfect for both adults and families.
Known as the “Garden of England,” Kent holds historical significance with its Roman heritage, medieval cathedrals, and coastal defense legacy, offering a unique blend of culture and natural beauty.
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
An NHS general hospital in Wales is seeking a Locum Consultant in Geriatric Medicine with a special interest in Orthogeriatrics. The department includes a team of 9 consultants and is supported by a large middle grade doctor team. This Geriatric Medicine role welcomes both UK-based and international applicants, especially those holding MRCP(UK) or equivalent qualifications.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Applicants should hold full GMC registration and MRCP, with solid experience in general and geriatric medicine. Subspecialty interest in Geriatric Medicine is desirable
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Oversee inpatient care for 15–20 patients alongside a multidisciplinary team
- Supervise and collaborate with junior medical staff and allied professionals.
- Provide one outpatient clinic per week in geriatric medicine or a relevant subspecialty.
- Take part in education, audits, and continuous service improvement projects.
LIFE IN WALES
This role is based in a picturesque Welsh town offering both urban convenience and rural tranquility, with popular residential areas including charming market towns and countryside villages.
The region provides great schooling options, strong transport connections, and plenty of family-friendly leisure activities.
Historically rich, the area features medieval architecture and has played a significant role in Welsh and British history.
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
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
This oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone with an interest in gynae and upper GI oncology should apply.
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
Provide systemic therapy services for patients across UHMB sites.
Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and support associated administrative duties.
Lead and contribute to acute oncology services across the Trust (no on-call required).
Support teaching, supervision, and mentorship for junior medical staff and trainees.
LIFE IN LANCASHIRE AND SOUTH CUMBRIA
The area is rich with excellent schools, convenient rail and road links, and beautiful scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically, the region has played a key role in British shipbuilding and industrial development and today combines coastal charm with cultural heritage and modern living.
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
An NHS teaching hospital, in Kent is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in Melanoma. The Oncology department comprises a team of over 40 Clinical and Medical Oncology consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors, fellows, and trainees.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
-
This Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or MRCP are most encouraged to apply.CCT in Medical Oncology or equivalent experience, including CESR pathway candidates.
-
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Provide high-quality specialist care to melanoma patients attending the Kent Oncology Centre.
-
Attend relevant MDT meetings and coordinate treatment planning with other specialists.
-
Participate in departmental research initiatives and contribute to national and local clinical trials.
-
Contribute to training and supervision of junior doctors and participate in clinical governance activities.
Life in Kent
The area offers the best of both worlds: urban living in towns like Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, and tranquil countryside villages such as Lenham or Goudhurst.
Kent boasts a wide range of excellent primary and secondary schools, including several grammar schools, and is well connected to London via high-speed rail and road. Residents enjoy easy access to historic castles, the coast, national parks, shopping, and outdoor activities—perfect for both adults and families.
Known as the “Garden of England,” Kent holds historical significance with its Roman heritage, medieval cathedrals, and coastal defense legacy, offering a unique blend of culture and natural beauty.
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
An NHS specialist cancer centre in Lancashire and South Cumbria is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in upper and lower GI cancers. The oncology department comprises a team of 8 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
This oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or MRCP are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone with an interest in upper and lower GI oncology should apply.
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
-
Provide systemic therapy services for patients with upper and lower GI cancers across UHMB sites.
-
Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings for lung and upper GI cancer and support associated administrative duties.
-
Lead and contribute to acute oncology services across the Trust (no on-call required).
-
Support teaching, supervision, and mentorship for junior medical staff and trainees.
LIFE IN LANCASHIRE AND SOUTH CUMBRIA
The area is rich with excellent schools, convenient rail and road links, and beautiful scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically, the region has played a key role in British shipbuilding and industrial development and today combines coastal charm with cultural heritage and modern living.
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