Seems an odd question, given the fact we all have search tools these days, but we are asked this all the time! If you’re an international doctor looking to join the NHS, you’re probably wondering, "Where can I find NHS jobs?"    The answer is simple: NHS Jobs is the official website where most medical roles within the NHS are advertised. It’s a one-stop destination for doctors seeking employment in the UK’s healthcare system. Whether you're a junior doctor, a consultant, or a specialist (SAS), you can search for NHS jobs across various hospitals and trusts through the platform.   Here’s how to navigate the NHS job application process.  Applying Directly Through NHS Jobs  The first step to applying for a role in the NHS is to visit the NHS Jobs website. Here’s how the process works:  Register for an Account  Create a profile on NHS Jobs by providing your personal details, including your professional qualifications and career history.  Search for Jobs   Use the search tool to find NHS jobs based on your specialty, experience, and preferred location in the UK. You can filter results by grade, salary, and contract type to narrow down your options.  Draft Your Application    Once you find the role that suits your qualifications, draft your application. Be sure to detail your medical training, employment history, and qualifications to meet the job requirements.  Submit Your Application  After completing your application, submit it via the NHS Jobs website. Be prepared to provide further documentation, such as proof of GMC registration, references, and your medical credentials.   While this process can be straightforward, it can also be complex for international doctors unfamiliar with the UK medical recruitment system. This is where a recruitment agency can be highly beneficial.  There are alternatives to NHS Jobs.   Advantages of Using a Recruitment Agency Like IMG Connect  Applying directly on the NHS Jobs website is one option for international doctors but working with a specialised recruitment agency like IMG Connect can significantly improve your chances of success.   Here’s how:  Personalised Support and CV Writing  IMG Connect will assist you throughout the application process, starting with helping you craft a compelling CV tailored to NHS standards. Our team ensures that your qualifications, experience, and documentation are properly presented and meet all NHS job requirements.  Job Application Assistance  We do the legwork for you, guiding you through every step of the application process to ensure you are submitting a complete and strong application.  Interview Preparation and Securing a Role  Once you’ve secured an interview, we help you prepare by providing guidance on what to expect. After you’ve landed the job, we continue to support you with negotiations and paperwork.  Visa and GMC Registration Support  International doctors often need assistance with visa applications and GMC registration. Our team offers comprehensive support to ensure all your paperwork is in order, reducing the stress and complexity of the process.  Relocation Assistance – Relocation specialist Anastasia!  Relocating to a new country can be overwhelming. IMG Connect helps you with everything from finding a job in the right location for your needs to arranging flights, accommodation, and even helping you choose the right neighbourhood or schools for your family.  Salary Negotiation  We work on your behalf to ensure you receive the best possible salary and employment package, negotiating with the NHS trusts to reflect your experience and qualifications.  Continued Support After Relocation  Even after you’ve moved and started your new role in the NHS, we continue to provide ongoing support. We’ll be there to help with any challenges you might face as you settle into your new life and career in the UK.  Which Option is Best?  Putting it simply, you don’t get all of the above support on NHS jobs. While applying directly on the NHS Jobs website is always one of your options and we actively encourage your use of it; working with a recruitment agency like IMG Connect offers international doctors a smoother and more personalised experience. We take into consideration every aspect of the journey, from applying for your first NHS role to settling into life in the UK. The extra support, including visa guidance, salary negotiation, and help with relocation logistics, can significantly enhance your chances of success.  Start Your NHS Journey  Whether you choose to apply directly or through a recruitment agency, the NHS Jobs website is a good place to begin your search. But if you want to simplify the process and maximize your chances of securing a job, IMG Connect is here to help every step of the way.  For more information on how IMG Connect can support your journey to becoming a doctor in the UK, contact us today.  

Celebrating the Junior Doctor Pay Offer: A Positive Step for International Recruitment At IMG Connect, we are pleased to share the news of the new pay offer for junior doctors in England. This development comes after nearly two years of negotiations between the British Medical Association (BMA) and the government. It marks a significant milestone in improving the appeal of the NHS for international doctors. A Competitive Edge in Global Recruitment If approved by BMA members, the proposed pay increase will average 22.3% over two years. This adjustment is crucial for restoring junior doctors' salaries and aligning them more closely with international standards. Historically, the pay disparity between the NHS and other countries, such as Australia, the United States, and Canada, has been a barrier to attracting top talent from abroad. The enhanced pay scales aim to make the NHS a more competitive choice for doctors worldwide. Attracting Global Talent The new pay agreement positions the NHS as a more attractive option for international doctors. By offering more competitive salaries, the NHS can appeal to doctors from countries with higher pay standards, thereby expanding the pool of qualified candidates interested in contributing to the UK healthcare system. A Bright Future for the NHS This agreement is not just a financial adjustment; it's a commitment to the healthcare professionals who are vital to the NHS. Fair compensation for junior doctors helps create a supportive environment where they can develop both professionally and personally. At IMG Connect, we believe this pay offer is a positive step toward a more sustainable and high-quality healthcare system. As we continue to assist NHS trusts in attracting the best talent from around the world, this new pay offer strengthens our efforts and demonstrates a commitment to building a robust healthcare workforce. This agreement is a win for junior doctors, international recruits, and the future of the NHS.   IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!   Get in Touch 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's 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:                  

Navigating maternity pay can be a complex process, especially within the NHS. It's crucial to understand the eligibility criteria and the benefits you're entitled to under the NHS maternity pay scheme. Here's a comprehensive breakdown to help you navigate through this important aspect of maternity leave. Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for NHS maternity pay, you need to meet the following criteria: 1. Continuous Employment: You must have completed 12 months of continuous employment with the NHS. This period doesn't necessarily have to be with the same employer but should have no breaks exceeding three months. 2. Timing: By the time you reach 11 weeks before your expected week of childbirth, you should meet the continuous employment requirement and comply with the NHS notice requirements. Understanding NHS Maternity Pay Structure: Once you meet the eligibility criteria, you become entitled to a structured maternity pay scheme. Here's how it works: 1. Full Pay (8 Weeks): You'll receive eight weeks of full pay, which is subject to deduction for Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) and Maternity Allowances. 2. Half-Pay (18 Weeks): Following the full pay period, you'll receive 18 weeks of half-pay, in addition to SMP and Maternity Allowances. 3. SMP or Maternity Allowance (13 Weeks): The final phase of maternity pay involves 13 weeks of receiving either SMP or Maternity Allowance. Maternity Allowance is paid at a fixed rate, which was £156.66 per week (April 2022 – April 2023) or 90% of your average earnings if lower. Notification Requirements: It's essential to adhere to the notification requirements set by the NHS. You must notify your employer at least 15 weeks before your due date. However, as a good practice, most individuals tend to inform their employers sooner, especially considering visible signs of pregnancy by that stage. Final Thoughts: Understanding the intricacies of NHS maternity pay is vital for expecting parents working within the NHS. By meeting the eligibility criteria and adhering to the notification requirements, you can ensure a smooth transition into maternity leave while availing of the benefits provided under the NHS maternity pay scheme. In conclusion, navigating maternity pay within the NHS involves understanding eligibility criteria, the structure of maternity pay, and notification requirements. By being informed, expectant parents can make the most out of the benefits provided by their employer, ensuring a seamless transition into parenthood.   Reference - https://www.rcn.org.uk/Get-Help/RCN-advice/having-a-family#:~:text=It%20is%20likely%20you%20are,13%20weeks%20SMP   IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!   Get in Touch 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's 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:                  

In a landmark decision, the government agreed to an increase to the pay of NHS junior and senior doctors in England, based on the recommendation of the Review Body on Doctors’ and Dentists’ Remuneration (DDRB). This pay rise will equate to an increase of 6% for senior doctors i.e., consultants and SAS doctors, and for junior doctors, an agreed average pay increase of 6% with a one-off uplift of £1,250.  This pay increase is not only a testament to the power of the industrial action by NHS doctors over the past several months. Whilst an acknowledgement of the efforts and hard work of NHS doctors, this pay increase fails to fully consider the rationale behind these strikes and the BMA’s calls for the UK government to fully restore pay to 2008-09 levels. In contrast, strike action was suspended in Scotland, following a 12.4% pay offer from the Scottish government. Whilst the Scottish pay offer is a move in the right direction, IMG Connect remains fully in support of doctors taking part in industrial action. The decision to go on strike is not taken lightly, but is a fundamental right of doctors who want to protect the NHS and its ability to provide quality care to patients and our communities, whilst also ensuring their work and wellbeing are properly valued and compensated. Sources https://www.gov.uk/government/news/nhs-staff-receive-pay-rise https://www.bmj.com/content/382/bmj.p1624 For more information on working in the NHS or how this pay increase will affect you as an NHS doctor or IMG, contact us at info@imgconnect.co.uk.                

The IMG Connect team is delighted to announce that we have been awarded a position on the NHS Workforce Alliance International Recruitment Framework for Lots 2 and 5!  This has been a long time in the making after the tireless work of our founders Marcus and Ruaidhri. It was hard work, starting the company amidst the uncertainty and disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic, sweating over laptops wondering how on earth to countenance for a pandemic in an international recruitment business model! But many a late night working alongside our hard-working IMG Connect team has led us to this fantastic achievement, and well, here we are, a new chapter begins. Everyone at IMG Connect relishes the challenge and opportunity presented to us with this Framework award.  Moving forward, we remain focused on connecting NHS Trusts with highly skilled and dedicated doctors who provide exceptional care, compassion, and dignity to patients. This framework allows us to nurture long-term relationships with NHS Trusts and deepen connections suited to the professional development and career goals of our candidates.  We are committed to helping our clients limit the expense and unsustainable practice of hiring overpaid temporary locum doctors; all while ensuring that we recruit only the very best medical professionals.  With our appointment to this framework, we look forward to extending our support to more hospitals and NHS Trusts across the UK, and our role in their pursuit to build a sustainable workforce and deliver outstanding healthcare services to the community.              

On 23rd June 2016, the UK voted to leave the European Union (EU). The exact terms of the process by which the UK will depart the EU are still unclear and may remain so for some time due to the urgent attention the COVID-19 coronavirus requires. As such, IMG Connect will continue to review our guidance for EU Nationals relocating to the UK, but for now there are some steps that you can take to explore your rights as an EU citizen.  At IMG Connect we support every single one of our international friends and doctors, and we know that the NHS is enhanced by the contribution of doctors from every country in the world. The contribution of EEA doctors to the NHS is hugely significant across all areas of medical practice.  What does Brexit mean for you so far… The status of EEA doctors already registered with the UK is guaranteed. But it is unclear whether current GMC registration arrangements for EEA doctors*, which are based on the principle of mutual recognition of doctors’ qualifications and enables the GMC to grant registration very quickly, will continue after the UK leaves the EU in 2019. The UK government has reached an agreement with the EU that will protect the rights of EU citizens and their family members living in the UK. It has also reached an agreement with Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein, and a separate agreement with Switzerland. These agreements mean that most citizens from the EU, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland will need to apply to stay in the UK.  *The EEA includes EU countries and also Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway. EU Settlement Scheme:  If you’re an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen, you and your family can apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to continue living in the UK after 30 June 2021. If your application is successful, you’ll receive either settled or pre-settled status. You may be able to stay in the UK without applying - for example, if you’re an Irish citizen or have indefinite leave to remain. The EU Settlement Scheme is open and free to apply. You can apply now if you meet the criteria. The deadline for applying is 30 June 2021. Use the Government online toolkit to find out what you need to do and when. You will need to be living in the UK before it leaves the EU to apply. The deadline for applying will be 31 December 2020. What else can I do?  Of course, there remains uncertainty over the impact that Brexit will have on the laws regarding immigration in the United Kingdom. So, we must stress that the information above is for general information purposes only and it may not always be up-to-date. We will do our upmost to keep informed and be in a position to support our EEA colleagues, for whom who we have the highest regard.  We encourage all doctors to join our community, and show their support, field any concerns, or share and answer questions to stay connected. You can always get in touch with us at IMG Connect by requesting a call back with anything you need help with - we are here to support you individually and collectively.  How will the coronavirus affect the UK leaving the EU? It is very hard to say how exactly how the COVID-19 outbreak will affect Brexit, if at all. Certainly the pandemic has caused the government to divert all attention on keeping the pandemic contained and matters relating to Brexit and immigration status are not being discussed with the same urgency they were previously. Whilst we endeavor to stay up to date with how these things affect EU doctors and their immigration status, we strongly advise that you stay in touch and up to date with the Government website and updates here. IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!   Get in Touch Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job opportunities 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:              

The NHS is estimated as the 4th biggest employer in the world, employing more than 1.7million... Despite the scale of the NHS labour force, it still does not have enough staff to meet demand. In this article we will explore the reasons why International Medical Graduates (IMGs) want to work in the NHS, the demand for more staff across the UK in every aspect of UK Healthcare, and some of the reasons working in the NHS can be beneficial for you.  'The United Kingdom (and the NHS) has been, and remains, a popular place to work for doctors and other members of the medical profession' In the UK, as well as across the globe, it has been well documented that demands on health services have been increasing year-on-year since the millennium. Advances in technology and medicine, wider ranges of healthcare, and an ageing population all play their part. It can also be said that improved practices, safer staffing numbers and planning strategies have also contributed to increasing demand.  Shortfalls in staff, leading to greater demand for overseas practitioners Over the past few decades shortfalls in NHS Staff across the UK have increased in part due to the slowing growth in training sufficient numbers of staff. When domestic supply slows, the NHS looks to International Recruitment. Current figures estimate that roughly 13 – 15% of hospital and community staff are recorded as having non-British nationality. The NHS is one of the most efficient, most egalitarian and most comprehensive public health services in the world.  Unemployment levels in the UK are at an all-time high, yet despite this there are many areas of high jobs demand. According to the UK Bureau Visa Department, the UK is experiencing severe shortages in 3 main skill areas which are: engineering, healthcare and art & entertainment. So, for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) looking to build a long-term career, with good salaries, they need look no further than the UK and the NHS.  Strengths within NHS attract overseas doctors The strengths of the NHS, such as training, quality and ethos, continues to attract many overseas doctors. Many choose to work in the NHS because of the attractive salaries and benefits. But the work offers much more: the chance to enhance your clinical experience as part of a team of 1.7 million NHS employees, many of whom have come to the UK from across the globe. All of whom are proud to work for the NHS, and care passionately about its growth and development.  The NHS is committed to offering learning and development opportunities for all employees. No matter where you start within the NHS, you will have access to the highest quality training and be given every chance to progress within the organisation and to develop unique skills. The NHS doesn’t stand still, there’s always more to learn. With a progressive and forward-thinking plan, there is always new equipment, new procedures; there’s always something to keep you progressing in your career in the UK, or for your return to your home country to enhance practice.  There's a growing market for international health practitioners to work in the UK, and demand is very high. With a professional health qualification and an IMG Connect consultant you can pick a lot of the UK in which to work. Senior NHS figures have told IMG Connect that recruitment has to be approached in line with changes to the way health and care services are delivered and in demand. That means a much more sophisticated approach to understanding where professionals will be needed, at least in the medium to long term.  With that in mind, IMG Connect offers an opportunity for some fresh thinking on the process of recruiting international doctors to UK Healthcare. A comprehensive Recruitment, Relocation and Retention service for permanent doctors only, helping to considerably reduce costs and time to hire.  NHS directors increasingly demand a significant focus on aligning values and fit and after care, in order to build a fully complimented and sustainable workforce to meet demands.  With the level of demand for healthcare continuing to rise, the need for overseas staff will continue to increase.  Put simply, the NHS is reliant on IMGs who want to start a career in a progressive, welcoming and rewarding environment.  If you are a client, we would be delighted to discuss your staffing requirements and develop a bespoke solution and hiring plan. Taking time to understand your Trust and the type of doctor that will thrive in your culture, IMG Connect looks to form successful working partnerships that continue beyond the initial placement. If you are an IMG, we offer a personalised recruitment & relocation service to any International Medical Graduate looking to find work in the UK. IMG Connect can help you start and progress your career, with advice and guidance on every aspect of planning, finding the right job, navigating legislation and relocating. This service can be summarised into four key areas of support and guidance: Exams, registration and Medical Qualifications  Job search & interview preparation UK Visa & Immigration  Relocation, aftercare & ongoing career support IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!   Get in Touch Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you. Follow us on social media for news and updates on GMC registration, the Royal College and NHS through the links below:             

Since the UK voted to leave the EU in 2016, the countries exit (now commonly known as Brexit), has raised many questions in the healthcare sector centred on the implications for workforce management and planning.  With some European doctors publicly stating that they either intend to leave the UK, or are uncertain as to the future plans to remain a staff member of the NHS, their decisions pose important questions – are European doctors welcome in the NHS and what is being done to encourage doctors to stay in post?  Speaking with senior NHS figures, it is clear that the contribution of European doctors and healthcare professionals is greatly valued. To add, workforce managers and service leads have advised in no uncertain terms that they do not wish to lose any of their workforce, far from it – services up and down the country are trying to attract more doctors to their services. Brexit they say, is an unfortunate stumbling block at a time when demand is increasing for healthcare. It is therefore a major hurdle that the NHS needs to overcome in order to continue to bring experienced healthcare staff to the UK.  What might not be clear among the bad press surrounding Brexit, is that in 2018, the Government actually relaxed its rules on the immigration of overseas doctors seeking relocation to the UK, considerably increasing the number of Visas made available.  Further evidence of the demand for overseas doctors can be found in the recent White Paper advising the government to add all grades and specialties of medicine to the shortage occupation list. Whilst this is yet to become government policy, the report makes clear the ever-growing demand for European and Non-European doctors.  With ministers agreeing to expand the number of doctors allowed into the UK and changes to the shortage occupation lists in the pipeline, Brexit very much goes against the grain. So, with a conflicting backdrop of Brexit set against the welcoming approach to European doctors in the NHS, where does recruitment of the best doctors to the UK stand?  Sources tell us that the government is set to continue to encourage doctors to the UK, taking on board proposals to increase the shortage occupation list to all medical doctors, as well as many other areas of healthcare professionals. Good news.  The issue that the NHS faces, is the growing media storm and political posturing around the Brexit debate. This toxic masculinity and surge to the right of centre in British right-wing politics is putting a large number of Europeans off their previously planned immigration. It can also be said that this atmosphere has triggered a small but growing exodus from the NHS.  The government now finds itself in a position where it is trying to explain its response to demand for staff in the NHS and its plans for Brexit, both very different approaches and rhetoric – can it have it both ways?  Focusing on NHS services, Directors, lead consultants and HR managers cannot be clearer – all Europeans doctors will be welcomed with open arms, and all current members of the NHS are highly valued for their continuing contributions. The praise goes further, Royal Colleges from all specialties, the General Medical Council and the British Medical Association have all unequivocally stated that they wish to support their European colleagues.  In addition, these organisations have increased their efforts to attract European candidates in an effort to combat the negative publicity brought about by Brexit. But, Brexit is having an immediate impact on retention, planning and hiring of new staff.  The NHS in England alone was short of nearly 10,000 doctors, with latest figures across the whole of the UK showing further increases in demand. Such figures do not reveal the full picture, with locums filling many posts, the real number of vacancies is likely 25% higher.  NHS operating departments continue to make it clear that staffing is their main problem when trying to combat the rising need for a varied healthcare system. What can be done to combat the negative stem caused by Brexit, and redress the balance in favour of the NHS?  Some attempts have been made in recent years to increase numbers in University as well as attracting junior doctors to the MTI scheme, however such efforts have fallen short.   In fact, the NHS will need to build its reliance on quality overseas doctors to take up fixed term and permanent service posts, an attractive option compared to either expensive temporary staff, or facing the prospect of competing for UK trainees, whose numbers remain very low.  Our hope is that there will be continued drive to employ talented and committed international doctors to help deliver services.  Starting with the local needs of each hospital or Trust in detail to create bespoke searches for the best talent, the best quality staff can be found. And rather than finishing at the point of placement, retention and after care services that ensure overseas doctors settle into their roles quickly, feel valued and integrate in their communities are crucial to successful relocation and retention. Such an approach will offset the negativity mindset and decrease in available candidates brought about by Brexit. Supporting doctors with practical support & information surrounding their relocation ensures that they can focus on their work. Offering advice on engaging with their communities and new team can bring about a positive mindset. And connecting employers with a wider pool of candidates, most suited to the Trust values and fit, can ensure prolonged partnerships with European and non-European doctors.  All in all, staffing demands caused by Brexit, coupled with the need to increase the skills base in the NHS, can be offset with agencies and HR departments being accountable for the challenges they face. Turning things around in the attraction of workforce supply to the NHS.  What we know so far is that the status of already registered doctors is guaranteed. What is not clear is whether the current arrangements for registration will remain the same, with European Mutual Recognition continuing unaffected.  In all Brexit outcomes, the NHS will need to engage in more international recruitment. Take rural and hard to reach areas, as a good example of where even without Brexit, NHS organisations face challenges to attract greater staffing numbers.  With improved partnerships, focused on overseas recruitment, we can jointly attempt to maintain the number of EEA doctors remaining and joining the medical register.  In summary, the NHS remains an attractive place for overseas doctors to work and train, and the NHS remains committed to supporting all European colleagues and future colleagues. However, the challenge to recruit the best and most committed candidates is growing. Demand is increasing for overseas recruitment; we all must pay our part to maintain the positive impact that employing and supporting Europeans doctors has on our patient care.  IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!   Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding CESR, a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable NHS jobs & hospital locations for you. Follow us on social media for news and updates on GMC registration, the Royal College and NHS through the links below:             

OET is fast becoming the most popular English Language test that overseas doctors will use for GMC registration. It is an English language test that tests medical language specifically and for that reason is very popular with IMGs. However, as with many things the exam has been heavily disrupted by the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic OET have created two new versions of their popular English language test to help doctors when their local test centre is closed: Computer-based OET test OET@Home OET@Home - what is it? OET has partnered with Prometric TM, a private company, to deliver a home version of the OET test. While computer-based testing and remote proctoring (invigilation on behalf of OET) will bring changes to the delivery mode - the test format, tasks presented and level of English assessed will all be the same. OET@Home - how does it work? The reading, listening and writing sub-tests of OET will be available via computer-based delivery and the Speaking sub-test will be carried out with a human interlocutor via video calling software. This human involvement and role-play nature of the OET Speaking sub-test which is so important to the test - will not be compromised. The test will be managed remotely and under strict condition by invigilators who know the importance of this test for patient safety and fair GMC registration process for any doctor taking OET - whether it’s OET@Home of OET sat in person at a test centre. Below we have summarised a number of FAQs to help address any question you have. We have taken the information directly from the OET Website here https://www.occupationalenglishtest.org/at-home-remote-proctored-testing/. Do I have to take the test on a computer? Or are paper-based tests still available? You do not have to take the test on a computer. OET will be running both paper-based and computer-based testing, so you can still take the test on paper if that is what you prefer. They will be continuing to run paper based tests at all the current values as long as local lockdown restrictions allow. So now you can sit one of three OET formats: paper-based tests at OET test centers (the old method) a computer based test that you can sit at selected test venues OET@Home , a remote-invigilated test that you can sit at home using a Windows PC Is there a difference between computer-based OET and OET@Home? Not really. They are exactly the same test with the main difference being where you actually take the test. The key difference is this: With computer based tests you will attend a test venue to take the test.  With OET@Home you will be able to take the test remotely (e.g. at home or work) on your Windows PC. How does the remote invigilation or proctoring work? ‘Remote proctoring’ essentially means ‘remote invigilation’. This means that you can sit the test outside a test centre under the same strict exam conditions that an OET test centre would provide. Human proctors or human invigilators check the following: you are who you say by checking ID room searches prior to the start of the test monitor your behaviour during the test, ensuring you do not breach any OET rules and regulations Remote proctoring systems also help maintain test security with the following: security features such as limiting functionality of your computer (e.g. so you cannot access the internet or take screenshots) How often will the computer-based test and OET@Home run? Initially once a month on either the same day, or alternate Saturdays as the paper-based OET test.  However, this is still to be confirmed and OET will release more details in the coming weeks. Keep an eye out for their updates found on their website here. Can I actually sit the test at home? Yes. Once the OET@Home is live you will be able to sit the test at home, using a Windows PC. How will the speaking test work? The Speaking sub-test will still be two role plays with a live interlocutor or test official. The only difference is with OET@Home, where the live interlocutor will role-play with you via video conference. How much will this cost me? At this point it does not look like there will be any change to the cost of OET, no matter which test you take. A reminder - those cost of the OET is currently AUD 587 (A$587) which is currently equivalent to £327. Please note, the price and conversion rate is representative of the time of writing this article (July 2020) When can I book a test? OET@Home will be open for bookings at the end of August, with the tests available from September onwards. Computer-based OET will be available at the end of September in a few locations. More locations will be made available after the first  Will the OET test format change? No - all tasks, format and timings will remain the same across all types of OET. If I have already booked to take the OET paper-based test - will I be able to change my booking to either computer based test or OET@Home? Are the computer-based OET and OET@Home accepted by regulators? Both the computer-based OET and OET@Home are accepted by the GMC and will be valid for Tier 2 visa applications also. How do I book my place with either OET@Home or computer-based OET? You will be able to book your test online and OET will let you know as soon as both new types of test are available for booking. Can I take the OET@Home on a mobile phone? No, the OET@Home can only be taken on Windows PC. You can find the technical specifications here. So, I can only use a Windows laptop? What if I have a Mac? Unfortunately, if you have a Mac you will not be able to sit the OET@Home with it. You will need a dedicated computer running Windows 10, either a desktop computer or laptop. Refer to the technical specifications to check you Windows PC can run the software. How long will the results take to be released? OET will stick with the same results timeframe in place for paper-based OET tests - however there may be the opportunity to significantly shorten the time needed for results to be released. However, do not expect to see this benefit immediately. How can I prepare for all versions of the OET?  As with all tests, we recommend preparing as much in advance as you can. Learning a new language is challenging and takes time. You cannot just turn up on exam day and hope to pass, no matter how good your English is already. Take a read through this article below to help your preparations for OET: IMG Resources: Preparing for your English Language Test What courses or tutors can I use for OET preparations? We discuss this in more depth in the article below: IMG Resources: Preparing for your English Language Test 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 are incredibly professional 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 Follow us on social media for news and updates on GMC registration, the Royal College and NHS through the links below: