For overseas doctors looking to register with GMC, passing an English Language test is essential.
Doctors regularly ask us which test is the most suited for IMGs to sit and which is more suited to the medical professional? There are different scenarios in which you’ll need to provide a pass in an English test. This article should hopefully help you decide which English Language Test would suit you best and includes the following topics:
If you are an IMG relocating to the UK to start a doctors job, you will be required to take an English Language exam, enabling you to register with the GMC (General Medical Council).
Both IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and OET (Occupational English Test) are used to test the English language levels of healthcare professionals in different parts of the world.
They are chosen by different regulatory bodies to ensure that doctors and other healthcare professionals have the correct level of English to communicate at a high level with patients and colleagues, so as to provide safe and effective care.
For international doctors relocating to the UK, it is important to start by saying that both the IELTS and OET are accepted by the General Medical Council (GMC).
The good news is that recent changes to the rules means that both IELTS and OET are accepted for GMC registration and your Tier 2 visa for both EEA and non-EEA applicants. Check out the recent updates here.
We have created the table below to help you check if you are taking the right test:
|
GMC registration |
Tier 2 Visa (CoS) |
Academic IELTS |
YES (7.5 overall, no less than 7.0 in all sections) |
NO |
Academic IELTS UKVI |
YES (7.5 overall, no less than 7.0 in all sections) |
YES (4.0 in all sections) |
OET |
YES (Score of B+ in all areas) |
YES |
Similarities:
Each consists of four areas, one for each English language skill: reading, listening, writing and speaking.
Both tests take place in one day.
Both give a graded score (not pass or fail)
Both are recognised by the GMC and other healthcare regulatory bodies in the UK
Differences:
The content of each exam is different.
IELTS tests overall academic English (as an IMG you must select the Academic IELSTS UKVI test as this is the one recognised by the healthcare regulatory bodies, i.e. GMC & Home office).
What does this mean in practice? This includes the ability to write essays, follow lectures, understand academic articles, journals and newspapers, discuss a wide range of topics including social, environmental, educational and cultural trends.
The OET is different, the OET has been designed specifically for medical professionals, including nursing, medicine, radiography, occupational therapists and so on. Be sure to choose the correct exam for you - medicine!
The OET tests healthcare English, including the ability to communicate effectively in medical scenarios, write referral letters, understand a patient consultation, or follow a text from a medical journal.
Your preparation will need to be different
This doesn’t mean that one will require more or less preparation, just that you will need to study varied pathways and prepare different topics and vocabulary.
IELTS involves learning a much wider amount of vocabulary on a range of academic subjects so that you will be prepared to read academic texts quickly and effectively, understand lectures, talks and questions, giving opinion in detail.
You will have to prepare how to write reports on a variety of data and essay types.
Written texts are to be of a high standard, including complex structures and grammar.
OET involves learning a wide range of healthcare related and profession specific language. The test will require you to follow clinical scenarios, understand medical texts and talks. You will need to write a healthcare letter, such as a referral. To get the right score, this must be at an advanced level.
IELTS:
IELTS is marked out of 9 in each paper. For GMC registration an overall score of 7.5 must be achieved, with a minimum of 7.0 in each area of the test.
OET:
OET is marked grades A to E in each paper. For GMC registration a minimum of grade B is required in all areas to pass the exam, or a point score of 350 points across all areas of the test.
IELTS is available in over 140 countries, with tests held up to 4 times per month. Check if there is a venue near where you live.
OET is available 14 times per year in 40 countries, with the number of cities and venues increasing each year. Check if is there is a venue near where you live.
Preparing for any English Language Test, whether you have chosen IELTS or OET, requires learning a huge amount of vocabulary, learning how to write specific reports or essays, using a high level of grammar and structure, learn how to engage with a range of scenarios and acquire a set of key exam techniques.
You should take time to research each area of the tests in detail, but don’t worry, help is at hand, for more information on how to prepare, take a look at our blog series on English Language testing.
Some specialisms that are hard to fill such as emergency medicine and various specialist medicines, however NHS hospitals do not like offering exemptions - and they are only offered to candidates who exhibit excellent language capabilities at interview. IMG Connect strongly recommends all doctors to practice for and pass an English language test. Get in touch if you would like to know more about exemptions or think you are eligible.
Neither exam is easier than the other. Both IELTS 7.5 and OET B show you have an advanced level in English. It really is up to you!
You may find OET simpler to understand as it is healthcare related and tests the language you use in daily practice.
The same can be said about IELTS, you may find the general nature of the topics more suited to you.
Depending on what other qualifications you have in place, you may have to pass an accepted postgraduate qualification in order to be eligible for full GMC registration. Regardless, passing your English test is a huge achievement and will take you that one giant step closer to working in the NHS. So congratulations!
For more useful blogs & articles on English Language Tests to help you find your dream job in the NHS - take a look at our IMG Library.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with an IMG Consultant to discuss UK job options in the NHS and English Language Tests, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable locations for you.
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A NHS Trust in the South East of England is looking for a Specialist Doctor in Medical Oncology with an interest in Breast. The Oncology department includes a team of consultants and is supported by a large group of specialty doctors and clinical fellows. This Medical Oncology role is open to both UK-based and international applicants, with those holding FRCR/MRCP especially encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formerly known as CESR) can have their needs reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Doctors with FRCR/MRCP and an interest in breast cancer are encouraged to apply. The salary will range from £96,990 – £107,155.
Deliver high-quality oncology care, including chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy.
Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and provide leadership for tumour site specialisations.
Supervise and mentor junior medical staff, contributing to teaching and research activities.
Engage in clinical governance and audit work to maintain high standards of care.
This region offers a balance of busy towns and peaceful countryside. There are excellent schools, reliable transport links to London and Europe, and a wide range of leisure activities — including historic sites, coastal attractions, and cultural events. The area combines accessibility with quality of life, making it attractive for professionals and families alike.
When applying through IMG Connect, you’ll receive full support from a specialist recruitment team who will guide you through every step. Support includes:
CV preparation and tailored feedback sessions.
Application support with in-depth NHS and recruitment insights.
At least two video-based interview preparation sessions.
Help with contract discussions and offer negotiations, including relocation packages.
Once you’ve accepted your offer, you’ll have access to a dedicated relocation executive to assist with:
Document collection and checks.
COS and visa support where needed.
Short- and long-term accommodation options.
Travel planning.
Family support, including help finding schools and settling in.
A large NHS Trust in the Midlands is looking for a Consultant Interventional Radiologist with an interest in complex vascular and non-vascular procedures. The Radiology department comprises a team of experienced consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors. This Interventional Radiology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist 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
FRCR or equivalent and extensive experience in interventional radiology are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in complex vascular and non-vascular procedures should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 to £139,882 dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
Lead a comprehensive range of interventional radiology procedures under consultant supervision.
Assist in the general radiology workload including the Interventional on-call rota.
Lead teaching and supporting junior radiological staff and radiographers.
Lead departmental audit and research activities, with the opportunity to pursue formal research.
LIFE IN THE WEST MIDLANDS
This role is based in the West Midlands, offering access to urban living in cities like Birmingham and more peaceful rural areas such as Solihull and Warwickshire. The region is known for its excellent schools, strong transport links, and a wide variety of leisure activities for individuals and families alike. With a rich industrial heritage, the West Midlands remains one of the UK’s most historically significant and economically vibrant regions.
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 to your new role including:
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Consultant to join this NHS Trust as a Consultant in Haematology working in an established medical setting in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support and international applications from IMGs are welcome.
The NHS Trust
The NHS Trust is one of the largest integrated care providers in England, serving a diverse population with a commitment to high-quality care and continuous improvement. The Trust operates across multiple sites, offering a broad range of services through various care groups, including Surgery, Integrated Medical Specialties, Family Health, Community, and Clinical Specialist Services. It provides a dynamic environment that supports innovation, education, and collaboration.
The Haematology Department & Team
The Haematology Department is a forward-thinking unit, staffed by a dedicated team of Consultant Haematologists and Clinical Nurse Specialists. The department focuses on outpatient and day case treatments, with a collaborative approach to inpatient care. It utilizes advanced facilities for a wide range of haematological services and participates in regional MDTs. This new consultant post will primarily be based at one of the main hospital sites but may involve activities across other locations within the Trust.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training and accreditation within haematology, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interests. The Trust supports continuous professional development and encourages participation in research and teaching activities. There is a strong emphasis on education with regular clinical meetings, audit sessions, and opportunities for career advancement.
Location
The location is ideal for international doctors and their families, offering affordable living costs, good schools, and a rich cultural heritage. There are numerous recreational activities, from exploring beautiful countryside and national parks to enjoying vibrant community events and historical sites. The area has excellent transport links, including easy access to major cities and convenient connections to international airports.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
EEA candidates:
Non-EEA candidates:
Consultant Psychiatrist – Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS)
South Wales
A dynamic and transformational CAMHS service in South Wales is seeking a Consultant Psychiatrist with a strong interest in child and adolescent mental health. The successful candidate will join a well-established multidisciplinary team delivering specialist care across the region, contributing to service development and clinical leadership within a collaborative and forward-thinking environment. Doctors with MRCPsych, CESR interest, or a European Specialist qualification are encouraged to apply.
This is a fantastic opportunity to work within a progressive mental health service with access to regional tier 4 services and a population of approximately 380,000. The post supports the organisation’s strategic vision to integrate CAMHS more closely into community settings while developing clinical pathways in areas including eating disorders, complex care, youth justice, and neurodevelopmental disorders.
We welcome applications for full-time, part-time, or flexible working arrangements and will support CESR (Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration) development on an individual basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Salary: £109,725 – £145,478 dependent on Consultant experience.
Full GMC registration with a licence to practise is essential.
Eligibility for inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register or within six months of CCT.
Section 12 approval (or eligibility within 6–12 months).
Experience delivering psychiatric care in CAMHS or related services is required.
A collaborative, developmental, and family-focused approach, with excellent communication and leadership skills, is highly valued.
Opportunities for career development through CPD, peer supervision, quality improvement, and service leadership.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
Provide consultant-level psychiatric care to children and adolescents as part of a multidisciplinary CAMHS team.
Lead clinical care planning, review, and treatment delivery in partnership with colleagues across mental health, health, education, and social care.
Work closely with specialist regional services including adolescent inpatient units, eating disorder outreach services, and forensic CAMHS consultation teams.
Participate in the CAMHS consultant on-call rota (with prospective cover).
Contribute to service improvement, pathway development, and integrated working in line with strategic planning goals.
Provide supervision and clinical leadership to junior medical staff and allied professionals.
Participate in annual appraisal, job planning, and revalidation, with access to local peer groups and CPD.
Uphold principles of clinical governance, information governance, and risk management across the CAMHS Directorate.
LIFE IN SOUTH WALES
South Wales offers a rare combination of coastal beauty, green open spaces, and urban convenience. With beautiful landscapes, affordable living, and excellent local amenities, it is an ideal location for professionals and families alike. The region is well-connected by public transport and road networks and offers easy access to nearby cities and airports.
Healthcare professionals in the area benefit from a supportive and inclusive working environment and access to a wide network of services across health, education, and social care.
If you are passionate about delivering outstanding CAMHS care and want to help shape future services in a supportive, innovative setting, we welcome your application. Please note that we may close this post early if sufficient applications are received.
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 interview preparation sessions.
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll be supported by one of our dedicated relocation executives, who will guide you through the process, including:
Document gathering and checking.
COS and Visa Application support, if applicable.
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
Travel arrangements and family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.
Consultant Psychiatrist – Acute Inpatient Service
South of England | Close to London
An inclusive and progressive NHS mental health trust in the South of England is seeking a Consultant Psychiatrist with a strong interest in acute inpatient care. The successful candidate will join a compassionate and collaborative multidisciplinary team, providing high-quality psychiatric care to adults and clinical leadership across inpatient services. Doctors with MRCPsych, CESR interest, or a European Specialist qualification are encouraged to apply.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a leading NHS Foundation Trust known for integrated working, a strong culture of kindness and respect, and its commitment to clinical excellence and innovation.
Applications are welcome for full-time, part-time, or flexible working patterns. CESR (Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration) support is available and tailored to individual needs.
Full GMC registration with a licence to practise is essential.
Eligibility for inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register or within six months of CCT.
Section 12 approval (or eligibility within 6–12 months).
Clinical experience in managing acute adult mental illness in inpatient settings is required.
Strong teamworking, communication, and leadership skills are essential.
Ongoing opportunities for professional development through training, leadership pathways, teaching, and academic engagement.
Provide Consultant-level psychiatric care to adult inpatients, in line with the Trust’s Acute Operational Policy.
Deliver clinical leadership and active involvement in quality improvement initiatives.
Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and contribute to a recovery-focused, trauma-informed approach to care.
Coordinate with specialist and community teams to ensure effective patient transitions and continuity of care.
Supervise and support junior doctors, specialty trainees, and students.
Participate in Consultant on-call rota (details available on request).
Engage in audit, teaching, research, and service development activities.
Located in the South of England, this opportunity offers the perfect balance of professional fulfilment and quality of life. The area combines vibrant urban centres, picturesque countryside, and excellent transport links — with London just 30 minutes away by train, and both Heathrow and Gatwick airports nearby for easy international travel.
This region is known for its historic market towns, outstanding schools, and a wide range of cultural and recreational activities. Whether you\'re relocating alone or with family, it offers something for everyone — from city convenience to coastal calm.
The Trust is committed to inclusivity, wellbeing, and the development of its workforce, offering access to flexible working and a wide range of staff benefits.
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 interview preparation sessions.
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll be supported by one of our dedicated relocation executives, who will guide you through the process, including:
Document gathering and checking.
COS and Visa Application support, if applicable.
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
Travel arrangements and family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.