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:
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.
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.
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) |
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) |
Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK
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 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.
Here’s the anonymized version of the job advert:
A UK-based mental health provider is seeking a Senior Specialist in Psychiatry with an interest in memory assessment services for older people. The psychiatry department includes a skilled team of consultants and clinical nurse specialists, offering a supportive environment for career growth. This opportunity is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, with preference for those holding European Specialist training or MRCPsych qualifications.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
The region offers a mix of urban living in vibrant towns and peaceful countryside settings, providing options to suit a range of lifestyles. It is well-connected by major transport links and boasts excellent schools, recreational opportunities, and cultural attractions for individuals and families. The area also has a rich history and cultural significance, adding to its charm as a great place to live and work.
A leading NHS cancer center in Manchester is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist specializing in Breast Oncology with an interest in advanced radiotherapy treatments in particular. Candidates can work as either a clinical or radiation oncologist. The Clinical Oncology Breast Disease Group comprises a team of 10 consultants, supported by a multidisciplinary team of nurse clinicians, clinical fellows, specialist trainees, pharmacists, and research nurses. This role is open to both international and UK-based doctors, though those with GMC Specialist Registration or FRCR qualifications 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
Whilst specialist registration is not required, it is a preferred status for those interested in staying longer term given the opportunity to turn the post into a substantive role. Whatever the qualifications or registration type, candidates should have significant experience in the provision of radiotherapy for breast oncology patients. The salary will range from £105k to £139k per annum, dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
LIFE IN MANCHESTER
Manchester, a thriving city in the North West of England, offers a mix of urban vibrancy and nearby rural tranquility. Popular areas include the city center for urban living and the nearby Cheshire countryside for more relaxed, family-oriented lifestyles. The region boasts excellent schools, extensive transport links including Manchester International Airport, and a wealth of cultural, sporting, and leisure activities. Manchester\'s industrial heritage has shaped the city into a hub of innovation and culture, renowned globally for its contributions to music, sports, and science.
A private diagnostic imaging clinic in a major Canadian city is looking for a Radiologist with an interest in specialized imaging services. The radiology team comprises a motivated group of professionals, including radiologists, Ultrasound Technologists, and Medical Radiation Technologists. This radiology job is open to both international applications and Canada-based doctors, though those with CCT from the UK, Ireland, or qualifications recognised by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCPC) are most encouraged to apply.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
A fellowship level qualification in Diagnostic Radiology from the Australasia region, South Africa, Switzerland, Singapore, Hong Kong, Ireland, UK, and the USA is required for this role, and anyone with an interest in specialized imaging services such as Breast Imaging, MSK Ultrasound, or Image-Guided Pain Management should apply. Earning potential of between $600,000 and $800,000 is available, dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
LIFE IN THIS REGION
This major Canadian city offers a blend of urban and suburban living options, with lively downtown areas and peaceful neighborhoods for families. The region provides excellent schools, reliable transport links, and an array of leisure activities for adults and families alike. Known for its cultural diversity and natural beauty, this area is a significant hub for commerce and education in Canada.
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:
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: