NHS Doctors in Training - Take-home pay in the UK
- September 07, 2024
"What take-home pay can an NHS doctor in training expect from their monthly salary?"
This is one of the most common questions we receive from overseas doctors. To help international medical graduates plan for life in the UK, we’ve compiled examples to show how much of your NHS salary you’ll keep each month after taxes and deductions.
It's important to note that most overseas doctors will begin their careers in the UK as trust doctors in fixed-term service posts before moving into NHS training roles. These service posts can be appealing due to the opportunity to negotiate higher NHS doctor salaries, depending on experience and demand.
The NHS doctor salary pay scales that we have included in this article can be used as a guide or starting point for negotiating your trust doctor role (or service post).
Take home pay for UK doctors in training
Firstly, take home pay in the UK is the amount that you will receive in your bank account after all deductions have been made from your annual salary. Deductions include Income Tax, National Insurance and NHS pensions.
It is important to state that this is just a guideline. We have based our figures on the average annual gross salary for each grade, i.e. you have worked additional hours under a typical working pattern where additional pay has been provided.
The figures can be higher or lower depending on any other sources of income you have, your final tax bracket, whether you opt out of pension, and whether you claim for your tax-deductible expenses.
Take home pay expectations
|
Grade |
Average annual gross salary* |
Estimated annual take-home pay** |
Estimated monthly take-home pay** |
|
FY1 |
£32,398 |
£26,053 |
£2,171 |
|
FY2 |
£37,303 |
£29,389 |
£2,449 |
|
ST1-2 / CT1-2 |
£43,923 |
£33,890 |
£2,824 |
|
ST3-5 / CT3 |
£55,329 |
£41,140 |
£3,428 |
| ST6-8 |
£63,152 |
£45,678 | £3,806 |
*before tax and pension
**tax and pension deducted, tax rebates for tax-deductible expenses not included
To explore the pay & salary conditions across all doctor grades in the UK take a look at our IMG Resources library.
Relevant Jobs
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
A CCT in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry or General Adult Psychiatry, or being within six months of obtaining one, is preferred for this role. Section 12 approval under the Mental Health Act is essential. Candidates with an interest in adolescent mental health care are encouraged to apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882, dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide clinical leadership for a general adolescent inpatient unit focusing on acute mental health needs and short-term treatment pathways.
- Lead multidisciplinary assessments, treatment planning, and case management for adolescents with complex mental health disorders.
- Supervise junior medical staff and contribute to training programs within the service.
- Participate in clinical governance activities, including audits and service development initiatives.
Located in the vibrant North West region of England, this role offers a blend of urban and rural living opportunities. With excellent transport links to major cities and nearby countryside, the area provides a variety of housing, leisure activities, and cultural experiences. Families will benefit from outstanding schools and ample recreational opportunities. The region also boasts a rich industrial and cultural history that shapes its unique character.
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
- 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
An NHS hospital in London is looking for a Locum Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in GI and Lung malignancies. The Oncology department comprises a team of 16 Consultant Oncologists and is supported by a multidisciplinary team of nurses, pharmacists, and radiographers. This Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or MRCP 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 have full GMC registration, MRCP (or equivalent), and substantial experience in Medical Oncology. Interest in Lung and GI malignancies is essential. The salary will be between £105,504- £139,882 dependent on experience.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide specialist care for Breast and Lower GI cancer patients, including outpatient and radiotherapy services.
- Actively participate in multidisciplinary team meetings for Lung and GI malignancies.
- Engage in research, clinical audits, and teaching activities to support professional development.
- Contribute to the Acute Oncology Service (AOS) and provide clinical supervision for junior medical staff.
LIFE IN LONDON
London offers a dynamic and diverse environment with a mix of bustling urban areas and quieter suburban neighborhoods. It provides access to world-class educational institutions, excellent transport links, and a wide range of cultural, leisure, and historical attractions. London’s rich history and multicultural vibrancy make it an ideal location for both professional development and personal fulfillment.
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 and recruitment practices.
- 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 guided throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives, including:
- Document gathering and checking.
- COS and visa application support if applicable.
- Assistance with sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
- Travel arrangements.
- Family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.
Cellular Pathology Services
The Cellular and Anatomical Pathology Department encompasses histopathology, cytopathology, neuropathology, and anatomical pathology. Annually, it processes approximately 38,000 surgical biopsies, 2,000 non-cervical cytology samples, and conducts around 1,100 postmortem examinations.
The department is staffed by a multidisciplinary team, including consultant pathologists, biomedical scientists, and technical specialists. Services provided involve diagnostic evaluations of tissue samples to identify diseases such as cancer and precancerous conditions, utilizing techniques like special stains, immunocytochemistry, electron microscopy, and molecular methods. The department\'s facilities are equipped to deliver timely and accurate diagnoses, with most straightforward biopsies reported within 14 working days.
Eligibility
Working arrangements can be discussed openly, with an understanding that flexible working and full off-site reporting is accepted and offered for those requiring so, and with specialist registration NHS consultant experience are invited to apply.
A UK-based NHS hospital is looking for a Specialty Doctor in Acute Medicine with an interest in general medicine. The department comprises a team of consultants and middle-grade doctors, all working together to provide high-quality care to patients. This Acute Medicine role is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with MRCP or equivalent qualifications and those within 6 months of CCT 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
Candidates must be fully registered with the GMC and possess MRCP or equivalent qualifications. Entry on the Specialist Register or within six months of CCT at the time of interview is essential. Expertise in a broad range of medical conditions and the ability to lead a multi-professional team is required. Sub-specialty interests will be supported. The salary will be competitive and dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Lead and manage patients in the Acute Medical Unit and related wards.
- Supervise and mentor junior medical staff.
- Provide consultant support as part of the general medicine on-call rota.
- Contribute to clinical governance, audit, and quality improvement initiatives.
LIFE IN THE REGION
This hospital is located in a well-connected town offering both city and rural living. With excellent schools, public transport options, and numerous leisure activities, it\'s ideal for both individuals and families. The area is known for its rich history and easy access to outdoor activities, making it a wonderful place to live and work.
A leading NHS Trust in the East Midlands is offering an exciting opportunity for a Consultant in Acute and General Internal Medicine. This role is ideal for doctors passionate about delivering high-quality care within a supportive and dynamic environment. The position is based at a CQC-rated \"Outstanding\" hospital, part of a trust recognized for its exceptional staff engagement and commitment to innovation. The role combines acute and sub-acute care responsibilities with opportunities to develop sub-specialist interests.
The Trust also provides CESR Portfolio Pathway support for international medical graduates (IMGs), facilitating the journey to consultant accreditation in the UK.
What is the NHS Trust like?
This NHS Trust serves a diverse population of over 500,000, providing acute and community care through a network of hospitals and clinics. Known for its collaborative approach, the Trust works closely with local health and social care providers to deliver integrated, patient-centered services.
The Trust is committed to fostering a culture of excellence, with a focus on diversity, inclusion, and staff wellbeing.
What is the department like?
The GIM department combines acute care expertise with specialty clinics, ensuring comprehensive and patient-focused services. Consultants lead a multidisciplinary team, supported by advanced diagnostic tools and robust training programs.
The team includes specialists in nephrology, geriatrics, and rheumatology, providing a collaborative environment where consultants can develop their expertise while delivering exceptional care. Supported by registrars, SHOs, and F1 doctors, consultants oversee a high volume of admissions—approximately 14,000 unselected medical emergencies annually—ensuring efficient and effective patient management.
Continued Professional Development
The role offers extensive CPD opportunities, including CESR support, specialty training, and leadership development programs. Consultants are encouraged to engage in research, audits, and teaching.
Location
Located in a vibrant region of the East Midlands, this area offers affordable living, excellent schools, and diverse cultural and recreational activities. With strong transport links, it is an ideal base for professionals and families.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Experience in Acute & General Internal Medicine
EEA candidates:
- Experience in Acute & General Internal Medicine
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- MRCP
- Experience in Acute & General Internal Medicine