PMQs - Acceptable Overseas Primary Medical Qualifications

  • April 13, 2020
 

In order to apply for GMC Registration and/or take the PLAB tests, IMGs must hold a primary medical qualification acceptable to the GMC for the purpose of registration with a licence to practise.

If your primary medical qualification is from outside of the UK or EEA, the GMC will need to check that it is acceptable. 

How can I check my overseas qualification is recognised by the GMC? 

Your Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) must be awarded by an institution listed in the World Directory of Medical School

There are some qualifications that the GMC already do not accept. These are listed on their website. You should check whether your qualification meets the relevant criteria before you start an application. 

As part of the GMC application, overseas doctors from outside of the EEA will need to send a copy of their primary medical qualification to the GMC. 


If your primary medical qualification meets the GMC criteria, you will need to have it independently verified by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) before registration with a license to practice can be complete.


How do I verify my Primary Medical Qualification? 

Verification is completed online and is a simple process. You will set up an online EPIC account (Electronic Portfolio of International Credentials), confirm your identity and upload your qualification for verification. This is then assessed by ECFMG who will communicate directly with your awarding body to confirm authenticity. 

What next?

Once assessed the ECFMG will confirm the outcome with the GMC. You will receive and EPIC ID, which will be required when completing the GMC application. 

At IMG we recommend that you check your primary medical qualification and start the verification process as early as possible, so that you will have your verified qualification before applying. 

Once you have checked that you have a suitable overseas qualification, and your overseas primary medical qualification has been independently verified, you can complete the GMC registration online. 


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Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice

At least two video calling interview preparation sessions

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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

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  • 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.

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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.

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 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

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