Overseas doctors hoping to register with the GMC & find a job in the NHS will have to pass an English language test.
This will demonstrate that they have the right level of English to practice safely in the NHS, and in this article we will look at how to prepare for both IELTS and OET examinations.
To help you decide the best way to prepare, we have included the following topics:
Preparing for any English Language Test, whether you have chosen IELTS or OET, requires you to learn a huge amount of vocabulary, write specific reports or essays, use a high level of grammar and structure, learn how to engage with a range of scenarios and acquire a set of key exam techniques.
Preparing for and sitting the exams is difficult, not least because of the overload of information that is out there, for example which sources do you trust? What is the best way to find information?
Passing the exams can take months, and in some cases years of hard work. And don’t forget that each exam costs money, with many also choosing private tuition – the money and time can soon add up.
The exams costs money each time and are very specific in format, with the answers requiring certain structures and techniques. A lot of IMGs don’t get the required marks at first attempt and as such, we don’t advise taking the exam without sound preparation.
Remember… failing to prepare, is preparing to fail.
In general, there are a few things that most IMGs tell us that they have improved on through preparing well:
IMGs who passed have told us that this takes the longest, but it is time well spent…
Overall improvements in general English skills, including broadening your vocabulary, grammar and punctuation, will help you to achieve the best score possible. Try to make a little progress every day.
Each sub-test (reading, writing, speaking and listening) has a different style of question and answer, so each of them has a specific skill that you need to learn.
To gain those valuable extra scores, get to know what the examiner wants and give it to them!
Remember, this skill alone won’t get you a pass, but combined with the above it will be a huge help to getting the score you want.
IMGs have shared many ways to practice for a pass and this doesn’t mean just repeating exam questions.
Here are a few of our favourite examples that you can do every day, for free!
Basically, find your passion and go for it!
There are excellent training sessions available, including face-face and online courses to help you to prepare. They can help you to build the skills you need to succeed in your exam.
It is always good to tailor your learning to your own needs, so whether you are new to the tests, or looking for support to help you to study or retake the exams, find a training programme that suits you.
Whilst not necessary, taking up an exam preparation course led by an experienced teacher or tutor who is knowledgeable on the test and the skills – is highly recommended
Knowing your level is an essential part of the preparation for both IELTS and OET. Whether you decide to sign up for a course, or tutor, getting assessed and knowing your current level will help you identify your areas of weakness to focus on.
We would recommend getting your speaking and writing assessed by a qualified teacher. They can tell you what level you are at and areas for improvement.
You can find courses or individual teachers online who have been trained directly by the examining body, which can give you the boost you need. But, speak to colleagues and see if they can recommend a trusted course or teacher.
The following sites will give you all the general information you need for your IELTS or OET exam preparation:
You can find video tutorials and support on YouTube, including official channels from both IELTS and OET:
You can find online practice papers at the following trusted sites:
As an International Brand dedicated to helping international doctors to register with the GMC and find work in the NHS - we have lots of partnerships in place with trusted companies in many areas. One of these key areas is English Language Testing and IMG Connect works closely with a company called Specialist Language Courses. You can take a look at their website here.
Specialist Language courses work very professionally and are the UK's leading provider of online courses and tutoring. They are also one of the few accredited providers of OET and have provided consultation and guidance to the GMC on english language testing.
Success rates are 70% + for those who sign for their tutoring and you can receive a discount if introduced by IMG Connect.
Register with IMG Connect to request your discount on English Language Courses or get in touch with one of our IMG Consultants to discuss
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!
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.
For regular news and updates, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:
This is a good opportunity for any FRCPath or European-qualified histopathologists to join a friendly, high calibre department in the North East of England. The department are looking for experienced but hungry histopathologists to join them for a long-term post, and the trust will support candidates working on the Portfolio Pathway in Histopathology (formerly known as CESR). The trust will consider both UK and overseas applicants.
What is the NHS Foundation Trust like?
The NHS Foundation Trust serves as a district general hospital, providing essential healthcare services to the local population. Under its management, various healthcare facilities in the region. Consistent positive evaluations from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) underscore its commitment to delivering high-quality patient care, safety, and efficiency. The catchment area of this trust encompasses the north east, ensuring residents have access to comprehensive healthcare close to home. Through its services, the trust plays a vital role in promoting community health and well-being, contributing to a stronger, healthier population.
What is the department & team like?
The department have been centralized at a state-of-the-art Pathology Centre located at the NHS Foundation Trust\'s main hospital. These services cater to the local population in the North East. The consolidation of Cellular Pathology Services, completed in 2014, marks an innovative reorganization in pathology services. Satellite hot lab facilities are available at the NHS Foundation Trust\'s other sites. The NHS Foundation Trust leads this service, and the appointed individual will be contracted.
Pathologists are equipped with high-quality IT infrastructure to facilitate remote attendance at Multidisciplinary Team Meetings (MDTs). In cases where physical presence is required, a departmental electric car or a hopper service is available for transportation. Digital pathology implementation is underway progressively for pathologists interested in participation.
Career Development & Further Opportunities Available
The department will in time be moving towards a specialist reporting model and there will be opportunity to carve out your lead role in either the GI, head & neck, and urology sub-specialties.Non-EEA candidates:
EEA candidates:
UK candidates:
An exceptional NHS job opportunity awaits a Middle Grade Microbiologist to join the Microbiology Pathology Department at an \"outstanding\" rate NHS Trust.The role involves diagnosing and managing infections caused by microorganisms, contributing significantly to patient well-being.
This is an ideal chance for overseas Microbiologists or Middle Grade Doctors to establish themselves in the UK NHS system, with potential CESR support. Suitable for EEA-specialized candidates or experienced IMGs seeking career advancement.
What is the NHS Foundation Trust like?
This NHS Foundation Trust is a dynamic organization with an £180 million turnover, employing 12,000 staff to serve 500,000 people across acute and community healthcare services. Recognized for excellence by the CQC in 2016 and 2019, it primarily serves an urban population but extends its care across a rural expanse from the River Tyne to the River Tweed, offering picturesque landscapes. The Trust operates three major hospitals and numerous community facilities, including the state-of-the-art Specialist Emergency Care Hospital. With ongoing capital investments, it ensures modern, purpose-built facilities and expands its services to meet evolving healthcare needs.
They provide an extensive array of specialties, boasting some of the region\'s largest specialist departments. These include the foremost trauma and orthopaedics service, a significant cardiology department, and one of the region\'s most expansive units for colorectal surgery services.
The NHS Foundation Trust prioritizes supporting its staff in achieving a healthy work-life balance, irrespective of individual circumstances. Applicants unable to work full-time due to personal reasons will still be considered for the position, and adjustments to job responsibilities can be discussed on a case-by-case basis upon appointment.
What is the Department & Team like?
The Clinical Support and Cancer Services Business Unit manages Radiology, Pharmacy, and Pathology departments, as well as cancer services, across several hospitals. These services also extend to six community hospitals. With modern facilities and dedicated staff, the Pathology department, including the microbiology laboratory, benefits from significant capital investment and supports medical education initiatives.
The Microbiology team offers clinical consultation services through various channels such as ward rounds, telephone, email, and multi-disciplinary team meetings. They collaborate closely with Infectious Diseases, Infection Prevention and Control, Public Health teams, and the laboratory. Encouragement for networking with Consultant Microbiologists in the Newcastle area is given to improve patient care across organizational boundaries.
The microbiology laboratory holds a central position within the hospital complex. It comprises 240 m² of laboratory space and 74 m² of office space, established during the hospital\'s original construction in 1987. Specimens from clinical areas within the North East site are transported to the laboratory via a vacuum air tube system, while collections from GP practices and other hospital sites across the region are managed through regular courier and van services.
Life like in North East
The North East of the UK offers a diverse landscape, blending urban hubs like Newcastle and Sunderland with picturesque rural areas. Residents enjoy a vibrant cultural scene, from historic sites like Durham Cathedral to sandy beaches along the Northumberland coast. The region hosts reputable universities such as Newcastle University and Durham University, complemented by excellent schools. Transportation links are robust, with rail and road networks connecting to major cities and airports like Newcastle International Airport. Housing options range from city center apartments to suburban family homes and quaint countryside cottages, catering to varied lifestyles and preferences.
An outstanding opportunity for a psychiatrist to join Forensic Psychiatry Department as Specialty Doctor that has received outstanding ratings from the CQC on three occasions. You will offer psychiatric input and conduct assessments, both psychiatric and physical, for patients on two wards. One ward is a self-contained low secure rehabilitation unit situated away from the main hospital premises, while the other is a medium secure rehabilitation ward. This role offers exposure to a broad spectrum of clinical presentations, including personality, affective, anxiety, psychotic, neurodevelopmental, and substance-related disorders. Moreover, it provides a platform for developing knowledge and understanding of forensic mental health sections. This position also offers CESR support for those seeking progression within the UK NHS Jobs system.
This is a great opportunity for overseas Specialty Doctors who want to establish themselves in the NHS, and grow their career. The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.
What is the NHS Trust like?
The Mental Health NHS Trust is a leading provider of mental health service serving a population of 1.2 million. With five main inpatient sites and 25 community locations, they offer comprehensive support for both mental and physical health needs, catering to young people and adults alike. From managing phobias and anxiety to addressing conditions like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, their services are diverse and inclusive. They integrate community health services with mental health care, enabling simultaneous treatment of conditions such as diabetes and mental health issues, promoting holistic patient care.
Forensic Psychiatry Team & Department
The Forensic Service enjoys a stellar reputation, earning an \'Outstanding\' rating from the Care Quality Commission. The Forensic Service delivers care in low and medium secure environments, featuring specialized facilities such as the National Stalking Clinic and the Fixated Threat Assessment Centre (FTAC). These services focus on evaluating and managing risks for prominent individuals.
The inpatient service consists of one acute assessment and treatment medium secure male 4 4 ward, four treatment and intervention medium secure male wards, one female medium secure ward, one medium secure and one low secure male learning disability ward, one low secure male FICU ward and 4 low secure male wards. There are currently 25 Consultant Forensic Psychiatrists in post, working with 5 senior psychiatric trainees who rotate with posts at other forensic psychiatric services in the region. There are 5 junior psychiatric trainees, coming from the UCH training schemes. The service currently employs 10 specialty doctors, working in the prisons and in the rehabilitation parts of the service.
Life in the area
The area offers a blend of urban and suburban living, providing both rural escapes and city conveniences. Residents can explore scenic parks or enjoy activities at different parks. The area boasts a range of quality schools and easy access to universities like Middlesex University. Transport links are excellent, with frequent trains to central London and nearby cities, as well as efficient connections to major airports. Housing options vary from historic cottages to modern apartments, catering to diverse preferences and lifestyles.
Career Development and Opportunities Available
With an extremely active education/teaching programme supported by the consultant team, there is opportunity to work towards and complete CESR, RCPsych exams, get involved in active research and many aspects of CPD.
Participation in research and educational activities will be encouraged.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
Non-EEA Candidates:
UK based applicants