Postgraduate Routes to GMC Registration for Overseas Doctors
- November 29, 2022
Recognised postgraduate qualifications are essential to work in the NHS with full GMC registration.
The GMC must be satisfied you have sufficient knowledge and skills before it grants you a license to practice, and for international doctors there are various routes to be considered. Your experience and desired role in the NHS should help shape the route you take option for you. The following postgraduate routes are available to you:
- PLAB
- UK Postgraduate Qualification (Royal College Qualification)
- Recognised or Equivalent Postgraduate Qualification
PLAB
The first and most popular route for more junior doctors is the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board or PLAB as its commonly known. It is a two-part exam, with Part 1 taken all over the world and the second part taken in the UK only. It is a quick and relatively simple set of examinations for overseas doctors to work in the NHS.
Have a read through our detailed and helpful blog series on the PLAB for more information.
UK Postgraduate Qualifications / Royal College Qualifications
One of the most popular routes for overseas doctors is to attain a UK Postgraduate Qualification through one of the UK's Royal Colleges.
There are twenty-four Royal Colleges in existence in the UK, and they are the professional bodies responsible for the individual medical specialties they cover. Among their many duties, their role is to set and monitor the educational curriculum for those training to enter their respective professions.
UK trainees will sit a series of examinations set by their Royal College depending on what medical specialty they have chosen and these generally are set to a higher level of specialism and training when compared to the PLAB examinations.
Attaining a Royal College Qualification will of course satisfy GMC postgraduate criteria for full registration and are often the route for more senior international candidates looking to work in the UK. Certainly, if you want to
Have a read through our Postgraduate Qualification section to find the qualification set against your specialty. The entire list of Royal College examinations can be found below.
Alternatively, have a look through our blog on PLAB v Royal College to help you decide.
CLICK ON THE QUALIFICATION BELOW TO READ A USEFUL GUIDE FOR IMGs.
|
Awarding Body |
Qualification |
|
Membership of the College of Emergency Medicine |
|
|
Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists |
|
|
Membership of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health |
|
|
Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists |
|
|
Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow |
|
|
Royal College of Physicians London |
|
|
Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh |
|
|
Royal College of Surgeons of England |
Intercollegiate Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons - MRCS Intercollegiate Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons - (MRCS (ENT)) Collegiate Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons - (MRCS) Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons - (following examination) (FRCS) |
Recognised or Equivalent Postgraduate Qualifications
Another option is to attain a GMC recognised overseas qualification. These overseas qualifications are recognised by the GMC as equivalent and will be accepted as evidence that you have the necessary knowledge, skills and experience to apply for full registration with a licence to practise.
Have a read through our blog on GMC Recognised Postgraduate Qualifications to find out if your qualification is on the list and recognised by the GMC.
Please note, you must be granted full registration with a license to practice within three years of passing your postgraduate qualification.
Recognised Equivalent Qualifications
|
Country |
Awarding Body |
Qualification |
|
America |
American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) |
Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatrics - General Pediatrics |
|
American Board of Anaesthesiology |
Certificate of the American Board of Anaesthesiology |
|
|
The American Board of Radiology |
The American Board of Radiology diagnostic radiology examination |
|
|
Australia/New Zealand |
Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists |
Fellowship of the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists |
|
Royal Australasian College of Physicians |
FRACP Adult medicine or evidence of three years of basic training (PREP) + achievement of RACP written and clinical examinations OR FRACP Paediatrics or evidence of three years basic training (PREP) + achievement of RACP written and clinical examinations |
|
|
The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists |
Fellowship of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (FRANZCP) awarded since January 2012 |
|
|
The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists |
Fellowship of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (FRANZCR) (Clinical Radiology) Fellowship of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (FRANZCR) (Radiation Oncology) |
|
|
Bangladesh |
Bangladesh College of Physicians and Surgeons |
Fellowship in Anaesthesia or Anaesthesiology awarded since July 1999 |
|
Canada |
The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada |
The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada - diagnostic radiology examination |
|
Europe |
European Academy of Anaesthesiology or European Society of Anaesthesiology |
European Diploma in Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care |
|
Hong Kong |
Hong Kong College of Physicians |
Membership of the Hong Kong College of Physicians |
|
Ireland |
College of Anaesthetists of Ireland |
Fellowship of the Faculty or the College of Anaesthetists |
|
Royal College of Physicians in Ireland |
MRCP Medicine (Medicine of Childhood) |
|
|
Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland |
MRCS (collegiate examination) MRSCI (intercollegiate examination) Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland Fellowship of the Faculty or the College of Anaesthetists of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland |
|
|
Malaysia |
Ministry of Health |
Master of Medicine (MMED) Malaysia with MRCP (UK) awarded since 1 July 2010 This must include four years of clinical experience (required to complete MMED) plus two years of training |
|
Pakistan |
College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan |
FCPS Paediatrics Pakistan Fellowship in Anaesthesiology awarded since1998 |
|
Singapore |
National University of Singapore |
Master of Medicine (Paediatrics) Master of Medicine (Internal Medicine) including MRCP (UK) |
|
Joint Committee on Specialist Training Singapore |
Master of Medicine (MMED) Singapore, plus MRCP (UK) awarded since 1 July 2010 |
|
|
South Africa |
College of Anaesthetists of South Africa |
Fellowship of the College of Anaesthetists of South Africa FCA (SA) |
|
Colleges of Medicine of South Africa |
Fellowship of the College of Radiologists of SA FC Rad Diag (SA) - Diag Rad awarded after 1 October 2013 |
|
|
Sri Lanka |
University of Colombo, Sri Lanka |
Doctor of Medicine or MD (Anaesthesiology) Doctor of Medicine or MD, (Obstetrics and Gynaecology) Doctor of Medicine or MD, (Paediatrics) Doctor of Medicine or MD (medicine) awarded after January 2017 Doctor of Medicine or MD (surgery) awarded after July 2017 |
|
West Africa |
West African College of Physicians |
Fellowship of the West African College of Physicians (Paediatrics) |
|
West Indies |
University of the West Indies |
Doctor of Medicine (Anaesthesia) awarded since September 2003 (Course title has since changed to Doctor of Medicine (Anaesthesia and Intensive care) |
IMG Jobs
Search and find live NHS doctor 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
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.
Relevant Jobs
A new role as Specialty Doctor in inpatient child and adolescent mental health service at a Trust rated \"Outstanding\" by the CQC has just opened for both UK based and overseas candidates. Based in a city just north of London the trust supports doctors looking to build experience before entering ST4 or to support with CESR applications.
This is a great opportunity for overseas Specialty Doctors who want to establish themselves in the NHS, and grow their career. The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.
ELIGIBILITY FOR THE ROLE:
Non-EEA:
- MRCPsych
- Experience in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
- Specialist certification in Psychiatry (desirable)
- Experience in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
- Experience in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
An exciting NHS job opportunity is open for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist specializing in Lung & Breast Cancer at an NHS Trust that has been rated \"good\" over all by the CQC. This NHS Trust has undergone significant development, emphasizing patient and community care excellence. With £58 million in national funding, the Trust boasts a University Hospital status, prioritizing research, education, and training. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) lauds the Trust\'s outstanding performance, with 992 beds and 92% patient recommendation, serving a population of 675,000.
This position aims to strengthen the Oncology team, focusing on lung cancer care and Stereotactic Ablative Body Radiotherapy (SABR). Situated at the dynamic centre within the \"good\"-rated trust, the role contributes to systemic treatment advancements and ongoing research. The Oncology Department at the Combined Haematology Oncology Centre caters to 1-1.5 million residents. Designated as a Cancer Centre since 1996, the Centre collaborates with neighboring hospitals, fostering a multidisciplinary approach. The purpose-built Cancer Centre, equipped with advanced imaging, provides nurse-led services, chemotherapy units, and home-delivered immunotherapy.
The post holder is expected to:
- Participate in all facets of departmental activity.
Career development at the Trust includes access to CESR support, specialty training, and opportunities for external duties. The forward-thinking Oncology department initiated SABR practices in 2021 and maintains a dynamic research team supporting various clinical trials.
Life in the area, a historic home of the Royal Navy, offers cultural richness and proximity to scenic countryside. A thriving artistic community, excellent schools, and various development projects contribute to the vibrant atmosphere. The area combines city conveniences with picturesque villages, making it an excellent place to raise a family!
This comprehensive opportunity integrates the Consultant role, SABR RT specialisation, CESR support, and coastal life in the UK, creating a fulfilling and enriching professional and personal experience.
AM I ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Recognised European Medical Degree or Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA Candidates:
- FRCR or equivalent qualification
UK Based Candidates:
- FRCR qualification
This is a great opportunity for any experienced consultant clinical oncologist working towards CESR in Clinical oncology specialist registration in the UK.
Want to be a part of a supportive and dynamic team as a Consultant in Gastroenterology?
Embrace this exciting chance to be part of a healthcare environment where your expertise will be valued and your contributions deeply appreciated. An excellent NHS Foundation Trust invites talented and dedicated medical professionals to seize an outstanding opportunity in Gastroenterology at one of their hospitals. As a renowned University teaching hospital, the trust places a strong emphasis on Medical and Dental Education, ensuring that all staff receive exceptional training and patients benefit from top-notch care.
Joining their innovative and dynamic Gastroenterology Department promises a rewarding career filled with diverse cases and comprehensive support from a team of skilled healthcare professionals. As a valued member of the thriving Gastroenterology team, you will have ample career development opportunities. Overseas doctors can work towards completing their CESR and explore sub-specialty areas of interest, further expanding their professional horizons. Moreover, there are exciting opportunities to engage in teaching and supervision of undergraduate medical students, fostering the next generation of medical professionals.
In the are where the Trust is situated, you will discover a vibrant community with a rich historical heritage and a welcoming atmosphere. The city\'s picturesque setting, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Lake District and the coastline, provides a serene backdrop for both work and leisure. The area boasts a renowned university, adding an intellectual and creative dimension to the city\'s spirit. The constant influx of students fosters a commitment to learning and research, ensuring you have access to cutting-edge medical advancements and resources to further enhance your expertise.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE?
EEA candidates:
• Recognised European Medical Degree or Specialist Qualification in Gastroenterology
• Extensive experience in Gastroenterology
Non-EEA candidates:
• MRCP
• Extensive experience in Gastroenterology
UK-based candidates:
• Extensive experience in Gastroenterology
• Within 6-months of CESR or CCT in Gastroenterology
This is a great job for any experienced overseas Gastroenterologists working towards CESR and specialist registration in the UK.
An excellent NHS Trust is currently seeking Consultant Histopathologists for a locum position. This role offers the chance to work alongside a team of ten pathologists within one of the Eastern Region\'s leading healthcare organizations. The Trust is known for its comprehensive acute services. The position is suitable for candidates with EEA specialization or experienced IMGs pursuing CESR.
The NHS Trust is a district general hospital trust comprising three hospitals. It serves the communities of three towns, consistently achieving a commendable CQC rating for its commitment to high-quality healthcare services.
The Histopathology Department is a vital healthcare component, staffed by experienced histopathologists, including consultants and junior doctors. Equipped with cutting-edge facilities, the department ensures precise diagnoses for a diverse caseload, from routine biopsies to complex cancer evaluations. Annually, the department handles a substantial number of histopathology and cytology cases, making it an ideal environment for professionals seeking career growth in histopathology.
The hospital is situated in a town that offers both urban and rural settings within reach. The area features diverse schooling options and excellent transportation links, including rail services to London, easy access to major cities, and airports. Housing choices range from modern apartments to family-friendly homes, making it an appealing destination for medical professionals and families alike.
Apply now and get the chance to contribute to the provision of high-quality healthcare services in a dynamic and supportive environment. Experience career growth and an enriching life in an urban area with a touch of scenic beauty.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Anatomical Pathology
- Specialist European Qualification in Anatomical Pathology
Non-EEA Candidates:
- FRCPath
- Experience of working in Anatomical Pathology
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Anatomical Pathology
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
Are you a motivated Consultant in Histopathology looking for NHS jobs? Then this is the outstanding opportunity you\'ve been waiting for!
An awarding-winning integrated NHS Trust and consistently ranked among top 10 in the UK for quality care is looking for a Consultant Histopathologist to join and collaborate with a supportive team in their well-regarded Histopathology Department. They handle a caseload of 20,000 requests annually, and they have a modern and well-equipped facilities. The Department is staffed by a dedicated team of consultants and junior doctors, ensuring comprehensive coverage for a diverse workload.
The department is part of an NHS Trust that serves a population of 250,000 people. Their main hospital provides a range of services including critical care, surgery, diagnostics, obstetrics, mental health and telemedicine. The hospital has undergone significant enhancements, featuring a cutting-edge Emergency Department and a £6 million development for the Acute Medical Unit and Pathology Laboratory.
The successful candidate is expected to:
- Provide advice and support to clinical colleagues, and to be available to discuss histological findings.
- Participate in multidisciplinary clinical care, to attend multidisciplinary team meetings and to assume the role of “Lead Pathologist” in the Cancer Unit Teams for designated sites.
As you contribute to multidisciplinary clinical care and lead in Cancer Unit Teams, enjoy a balanced work/life experience in the tranquil Yorkshire Dales. Furthering your career, the Trust actively supports research and development, participating in national programs and clinical trials.
Working for this NHS Trust means that you will be relocating in an area that offers a mix of housing options, including traditional houses and newer developments. The availability and affordability of housing can vary, so it\'s recommended to explore local estate agents or online platforms for current listings. In addition, it is well-connected by public transportation.
This role is an excellent opportunity for experienced international histopathologists working towards CESR and specialist registration in the UK.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
-
Experience of working in Histopathology (essential)
Non-EEA Candidates:
-
FRCPath or PLAB (essential)
-
Experience of working for Histopathology (essential)
UK based applicants
-
Experience of working in Histopathology (essential)