GMC accepted Postgraduate Qualifications

  • November 30, 2022
 

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.

What if my qualification is listed below?

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.

What if my qualification is not listed below?

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))


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 more!  

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.

Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:  

            

 

Relevant Jobs

99,532 - £107

An NHS district general hospital in the West Midlands is looking for a Specialist Grade Haematologist with an interest in haemato-oncology, laboratory haematology and blood transfusion. The Haematology department comprises a team of 3 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Haematology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCPath (or equivalent) 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

FRCPath (or equivalent) and broad experience in clinical and laboratory haematology are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in clinical trials, haemato-oncology, education, or blood transfusion should apply. The salary will be between £96,990 to £107,155 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide clinical support in both inpatient and outpatient settings, working closely with consultants and the multidisciplinary team.

  • Participate in the delivery of chemotherapy and specialist care via the dedicated oncology/haematology unit.

  • Contribute to clinical governance, teaching of junior doctors and nurse practitioners, and development of service pathways.

  • Assist with laboratory haematology duties including blood film reporting, and advise on transfusion and diagnostic services.

LIFE IN THE WEST MIDLANDS

This hospital is located in a picturesque region of the West Midlands, with access to both rural retreats and small city living. Residents enjoy a mix of traditional market towns and vibrant city centres, with good schools, easy rail access to Birmingham, and plenty of green spaces for outdoor activities. The area has deep historical roots, from medieval cathedrals to Roman forts, offering a unique combination of 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

105,504- 139,882

An NHS hospital in South East England is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in Upper and Lower GI cancers. The Oncology department comprises a team of four Clinical Oncologists and a Consultant Radiographer, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist Registration, GMC Specialist Register, CCT, or CESR 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

GMC registration with a license to practice, CESR, or a GMC-recognised qualification such as FRCR is required for this role. Anyone with an interest in Upper and Lower GI cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 – £139,882 dependent on experience.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Provide expert oncology care for patients diagnosed with Upper and Lower GI cancers, overseeing treatment plans and managing patient care.

  • Participate in multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings across sites to coordinate treatment.

  • Contribute to research and clinical trials within the Oncology department, promoting innovation in GI cancer treatment.

  • Engage in teaching opportunities with medical students and junior doctors, especially in preparation for the launch of a new postgraduate medical programme.

LIFE IN SOUTH EAST ENGLAND

This hospital is located in the South East of England, a region known for its mix of lively coastal cities and peaceful countryside towns. It offers great transport links to London, top-performing schools, and diverse leisure options, including historic landmarks, nature trails, and vibrant cultural scenes. The area is rich in maritime and military history, making it a unique and engaging place to live and work.


HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?

  • 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

105,504 to 139,882

An NHS district general hospital in Yorkshire is looking for a Consultant Dermatologist with an interest in skin cancer and minor skin surgery. The Dermatology department comprises a team of locum consultants, an experienced Specialty Doctor, and a Biologic Nurse Consultant, supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Dermatology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or MRCP (UK) or SCE 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 GMC registration and significant experience in general dermatology and minor surgery, are required for this role. Anyone with an interest in skin cancer management and dermatological surgery should apply. The salary will be between £109,725 and £145,478 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Deliver high-quality general dermatology services, including urgent and routine outpatient clinics.
  • Participate in subspecialty clinics, particularly for skin cancer diagnosis, management, and surgery.
  • Contribute to departmental management, teaching, and supervision of junior doctors and medical students.
  • Support service development and clinical governance through audit, guideline development, and education initiatives.

LIFE IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND

???????This hospital is situated in the north of England, with popular residential areas including vibrant cities and picturesque countryside locations. Urban dwellers may enjoy city life in places like Sheffield or Leeds, while rural enthusiasts might prefer the surrounding villages and national parks. The region offers great schools, excellent transport connections, and a wide variety of leisure activities for all lifestyles. Historically significant for its industrial roots, the area remains a vital and evolving part of British 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
105,504- 139,882

An NHS cancer centre in Northern Ireland is seeking a Consultant Clinical Oncologist with a specialist interest in Upper GI and Breast cancers. The department includes 11 oncology consultants and is supported by a team of middle grade doctors and specialty trainees. This position is open to both UK-based and international doctors, particularly those with FRCR or European Specialist Registration.

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 have full GMC registration and at least 6 years of postgraduate experience in Clinical Oncology. The salary for this role is between £88,799 and £119,723, dependent on experience.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

  • Manage patients with Upper GI and Breast cancers across inpatient and outpatient settings.

  • Engage in tumour site-specific MDTs and contribute to treatment planning and decision-making.

  • Support the training and mentoring of oncology registrars and junior doctors.

  • Contribute to service development, teaching, and clinical governance.

LIFE IN NORTHERN IRELAND

Based in the north-west region of Northern Ireland, this location offers both city and rural living, with access to scenic countryside, the coast, and neighbouring towns. The area features well-rated schools, convenient transport infrastructure, and rich opportunities for cultural, historical, and recreational pursuits. It’s a growing destination for healthcare professionals seeking balance between professional development and quality of life.


HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?*

  • 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

107,144 - 142,369
An NHS teaching hospital in Scotland is looking for a Consultant Haematologist with an interest in Thrombosis and Obstetrics Haematology. The Haematology department comprises a team of 8 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Haematology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCPath 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.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
  • Deliver Haematology services across multiple NHS hospital sites, with inpatient care based at the main centre.
  • Conduct outpatient clinics, lab-based diagnostics, MDT participation, and administrative responsibilities.
  • Participate in the on-call rota (1 in 8), including weekend ward rounds and lab duties.
  • Support the development of junior doctors and engage in audit, research, and quality improvement.
LIFE IN SCOTLAND

The hospital is based in the central belt of Scotland, with urban living options like Glasgow and more rural choices such as the Clyde Valley. The region offers a good range of schools, strong public transport, and plenty of leisure activities for both professionals and families. Historically rich and industrially significant, this area has evolved into a hub for modern healthcare delivery and research.

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

Search Vacancies

Ask a question

Check your salary

error: Content is protected !!