As an overseas doctor, preparing for any English Language Test, whether you have chosen IELTS or OET, requires learning a huge amount.
IMGs have told us that one of the most effective ways to improve their general level of English, and help them on their journey to improving their test scores, is to study at home. So, we have put together a handy list of IMG tips for studying for the English Language Tests at home, enjoy!
If you don’t already listen to podcasts, you should! They are great! You can access these at home, or on your commute to work. On your laptop, or even better, on your phone. If you have an apple, simply open the podcast app already installed.
If you have Android, then try Stitcher, RadioPublic, Podbean or Pocket Casts.
Here are a few of the IMG Connect Team favourites:
There really can be no substitute for regularly speaking to native English speakers. In most cities across the world there will be a community of English speakers, seek them out online or go say hello!
The IMG team are always happy to have a chat with you, so if you can’t find anyone, then give us a ring!
We know that sometimes in this modern world, people would rather turn to their computers, but to learn English is to share English! Whether a colleague at work, a fellow student, a friend or family member, speaking English about a range of topics, medical and general, will help you to practice what you learn. Be sure to apply your recent learning of vocabulary and grammar.
It is widely known that students who speak and listen to people every day, learn quicker.
There are millions of videos on YouTube, with thousands of great channels and shows to subscribe to. And of course, they are mostly all free! But don’t get stuck watching cute cats and dogs, stick to the task at hand – learning English!
IELTS and OET have their own official channels, full of useful resources.
Instead of randomly watching topics, think about your exams and search YouTube for suitable resources.
At IMG Connect we have found a few great suggestions to search for:
But don’t take our word for it, search for your own topics of interest.
What could be better than sitting back after a day at work and watching a movie? Well, watching a movie and learning English at the same time! The rule here is to not just sit back and relax, you have to do some work too, put the subtitles on, and follow the dialogue. If you don’t understand, then pause, rewind and watch again.
Try to choose the right type of films, with lots of dialogue, so apologies to all those blockbuster fans, you may have to watch something else. Documentaries are excellent, with topics for everyone!
Listen to the way that words are said, how the actors or narrators stress the sounds. And copy it!
Even better, take a note of all new vocabulary, and when the film is finished, find out what they mean.
This doesn’t have to be test related, you can choose something that you really are interested in. It can’t all be boring!
Blogs, news outlets, organisations – you choose.
Reading an article a day, short or long, can dramatically improve your confidence.
Twitter isn’t just about a tweet, but there are plenty fantastic articles and up-to-date topics that are shared daily.
Find someone you are interested in and follow their articles.
Many news groups share excellent articles daily.
But remember don’t just read the headline!
Practicing writing English in different contexts will help you to cement your learning and get you into the habit of writing to a high level of structure and grammar.
You could write a blog online for your colleagues, this is free on WordPress. It is your blog, so you choose the topic!
Of course, you should practice writing the essays for the tests, but if you know anyone that reads English why not also write to them…in English of course!
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:
A hospital in Yorkshire is looking for a Consultant in Emergency Medicine with an interest in trauma care and emergency medicine leadership. The Emergency Department comprises a team of consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This Emergency Medicine job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCEM 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 with a licence to practice and at least six months of obtaining a CCT in Emergency Medicine, CESR, or European Specialist Qualifications are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in trauma care and clinical leadership should apply.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
LIFE IN YORKSHIRE
The hospital is located in a picturesque region, with local towns offering both urban and rural living options. The area boasts excellent schools, transport links, and a wide range of leisure activities. Yorkshire has historical significance as a former center of the wool industry and offers rich industrial heritage alongside beautiful countryside.
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 your new role including:
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 a license to practice with experience in Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Gynaecology and Upper GI Oncology should apply. The salary will be between £88,364 and £119,133 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
LIFE IN THE NORTH WEST
The hospital is based in the North West of England, with the closest urban areas offering a range of living options from city life to more rural surroundings.
The region boasts excellent schools and transport links, with trains connecting to major UK cities, and plenty of leisure activities for adults and families, including access to outdoor activities and historic landmarks.
The North West has significant historical importance and features stunning landscapes, making it a desirable location to live and work.
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 NHS hospital in a coastal region is looking for a Consultant in Dermatology with an interest in Inflammatory/Vascular Skin Disease. The Dermatology department comprises a team of 5 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors and specialists. This dermatology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with equivalent 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.
Full Registration with GMC with a license to practice, and a higher degree in Dermatology are required for this role, and anyone with an interest in surgical dermatology should apply. The salary will be between £88,364 and £119,133 dependent on experience or grade.
The coastal region offers a blend of vibrant urban life and serene rural settings, with popular towns providing a lively atmosphere and beautiful coastlines. Families will appreciate the excellent local schools, while transport links, including direct train services to major cities, make commuting convenient. The area is rich in history, with landmarks and national parks contributing to its cultural significance in British history.
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 district general hospital in the North West is looking for a Consultant Haematologist with an interest in haemato-oncology. The haematology department comprises a team of three consultants and is supported by 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.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Applicants should hold full GMC registration and have CCT or equivalent qualifications in haematology. At least three years of higher training are required, and those with experience in haemato-oncology are encouraged to apply. The salary will be between £90,000 to £139,000 per annum, dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
LIFE IN THE NORTH WEST
The hospital is located in a vibrant city with both urban and rural living options. The region boasts excellent schools, transport links, and numerous outdoor and cultural activities. Historically, the area is known for its scenic beauty and significant landmarks.
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:
A NHS district general hospital in the South West is looking for a Consultant Histopathologist with an interest in bowel cancer screening. The histopathology department comprises a team of five consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This histopathology 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.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Applicants should hold full GMC registration, FRCPath or equivalent qualifications, and have at least three years of higher training. Those with an interest in bowel cancer screening are encouraged to apply. The salary will be between £99,532 and £131,964 per annum, dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
LIFE IN THE SOUTH WEST
The hospital is located in a coastal region, with popular residential options in both urban and rural settings. The area offers excellent schools, transport links, and leisure activities, from beach sports to countryside hikes. Historically, the region is known for its significant tourist draw due to the beautiful coastal landscape and maritime history.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOUR APPLICATION?
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: