As most overseas doctors may know, there are some non-UK Postgraduate Qualifications that are recognised by the GMC as equivalent.
An equivalent qualification will be accepted by the GMC as evidence of the necessary knowledge, skills and experience to apply for full registration with a license to practice.
The qualifications listed below are currently accepted by the GMC and are recognised as meeting the same standards as UK postgraduate qualifications. However, this does not mean they are the same in every way, and they do not guarantee entry to the UK Specialty training.
If your postgraduate qualification is listed below then you will simply need to provide evidence of English Language capabilities by passing an English Language Test (typically IELTS or OET) in order to satisfy the criteria for full registration with the GMC.
Read through our blogs on English Language Testing to help answer any questions you may have on the matter.
Alternatively, get in touch with one of our IMG Connect consultants (using the details at the bottom of this page) or send us an email with your details and we'll get back to you immediately to talk through any questions or next steps.
If your qualification is not listed as equivalent, then you will be required to complete a Royal College Postgraduate Qualification or PLAB. You can use the GMC application finder to find the application that’s right for you.
It is important to note, you must be granted full GMC registration within three years of passing your postgraduate qualification.
Country |
Awarding Body |
Qualification |
Australia/New Zealand |
Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists |
Fellowship of the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists |
Australia/New Zealand |
The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists | Fellowship of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (FRANZCO) awarded since January 2010 |
|
The Australasian College for Emergency Medicine | Fellowship of the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (FACEM) awarded since 2001 |
Australia/New Zealand |
The Royal Australasian College of Physicians |
FRACP Adult medicine or evidence of three years of basic training (PREP) + achievement of RACP written and clinical examinations |
Australia/New Zealand |
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 |
Australia/New Zealand |
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) |
Australia/New Zealand |
The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine |
Fellowship of the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (FACRRM) awarded since 1 January 2013 |
Australia/New Zealand |
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners | Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (FRACGP) awarded since 1 January 2007 |
Australia/New Zealand |
The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners |
Fellowship of the Division of Rural Hospital Medicine (FDRHMNNZ) awarded since 1 January 2012 |
Australia/New Zealand |
The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners |
Fellowship of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (FRNZCGP) awarded since 1 January 2012 |
Bangladesh |
Bangladesh College of Physicians and Surgeons |
Fellowship in Anaesthesia or Anaesthesiology awarded between July 1999 and October 2019 |
Canada |
The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada |
The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada - diagnostic radiology examination |
Canada |
The College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) |
Certification in the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CCFP) awarded since 1 January 2009 |
Europe |
European Academy of Anaesthesiology or European Society of Anaesthesiology (previously the European Academy of Anaesthesiology or European Society of Anaesthesiology) |
Diplomate of European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (DESAIC) (previously the Diplomate of European Academy of Anaesthesiology DEAA) or Diplomate of European Society of Anaesthesiology (DESA)) |
Europe |
European Society of Intensive Care Medicine (ESICM) |
European Diploma of Intensive Care (EDIC) awarded since January 2015 |
Hong Kong |
Hong Kong College of Physicians |
Membership of the Hong Kong College of Physicians |
Ireland |
College of Anaesthesiologists of Ireland |
Fellowship of the College of Anaesthesiologists of Ireland (previously Fellowship of the College of Anaesthetists of Ireland) |
Ireland |
Royal College of Physicians in Ireland |
Membership of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (MRCPI) in General Medicine, awarded after 1 January 2007 Membership of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (MRCPI) in Paediatrics (Medicine of Childhood), awarded after 1 January 2007 Membership of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (MRCPI) in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, awarded after 1 January 2007 Membership of the Faculty of Occupational Medicine (MFOM), awarded after 1 January 2007 Membership of the Faculty of Public Medicine (MFPHMI), awarded after 1 January 2007 |
Ireland |
Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland |
MRCS (collegiate examination) MRSC (intercollegiate examination) MRSC (ENT) (intercollegiate examination) Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (FRCSI) Fellowship of the Faculty or the College of Anaesthetists of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Fellowship of the Faculty of Radiologists in Clinical Radiology of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (FFR RCSI) |
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 |
Singapore |
National University of Singapore |
Master of Medicine (Internal Medicine) including MRCP (UK) |
Singapore |
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) |
South Africa |
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 |
South Africa |
College of Family Physicians of South Africa |
Fellowship of the College of Family Physicians of South Africa (FCFP(SA)) awarded since 1 January 2007 |
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 (medicine) awarded after January 2017 Doctor of Medicine or MD (surgery) awarded after July 2017 |
United States |
American Board of Anaesthesiology | Certificate of the American Board of Anaesthesiology |
|
The American Board of Radiology |
The American Board of Radiology diagnostic radiology examination |
West Indies |
University of the West Indies |
Doctor of Medicine (Anaesthesia) awarded between September 2003 and May 2014 (Course title has since changed to Doctor of Medicine (Anaesthesia and Intensive care)) |
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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