The General Medical Council’s medical register is a full list of all the doctors qualified to work in the UK. Within this, there are different types of registration which doctors must hold to work in different posts in the UK.  All practicing physicians must hold one of these types of registration with a license to practice.  In this article we will discuss the following:   Provisional Registration Full Registration Specialist Registration GP Registration IMG Tips 1. Provisional Registration The purpose of provisional registration is to allow medical graduates to complete an approved internship (FY1). After this, trainees will receive a certificate of experience with which they can apply for full registration.  Provisional registration can be held for a maximum of three years and 30 days (1,125 days) only, which would be enough time within which to complete a 12-month internship. This registration will expire after the allotted time, and you will be removed from the register, however, more time can be provided, and you can find out whether you will be eligible here.  What roles can I take with provisional registration?  With provisional registration, the only service post you are able to take is an FY1 service post, other than an approved UK FY1 programme.  Who can apply for provisional registration?  If you are eligible for full registration, you cannot apply for provisional registration.  Applications for provisional registration will be considered from:   UK medical graduate who completed their medical degree at a UK university  Doctors who graduated from outside the UK with an acceptable primary medical qualification (PMQ) and have passed the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB), but have not completed an internship  Doctors who qualified within certain European countries but do not hold the accompanying certificate required to complete their relevant European qualification – you can see a full list of these countries here.  2. Full Registration Doctors require full registration to work in unsupervised medical practice in the NHS, UK private practice, or to move onto the second year of their internship (FY2) in an approved training programme require a full license to practice.  What roles can I take with full registration?  With full registration, doctors can take up any post aside from GP posts and substantive consultant posts.  Who can apply for full registration?  There are certain criteria you must meet before you are eligible for full registration:  1. Completed the first year (FY1) of the Foundation Programme in the UK  2. Be a Swiss or UK national (or benefit from enforceable community rights) and have either:  A formal qualification listed in The Directive on Recognition of Professional Qualifications; OR An acceptable primary medical qualification from outside the EEA (which has been recognised in Switzerland) with evidence of an acceptable pattern of experience  3. Be an international medical graduate (IMG) with an acceptable PMQ, and enough clinical experience to practice medicine in the UK – you can do this in one of 5 ways:  A pass in the PLAB test Sponsorship by a GMC approved sponsor An acceptable postgraduate qualification or overseas licensing exam Relevant European Qualification (REQ) Eligibility for entry onto the Specialist or GP register Full registration does not have a time limit, but doctors should note that they are required to go through a revalidation process every five years to avoid the license to practice being withdrawn.  You can read more about the routes to GMC Registration through our IMG Resources library.  3. Specialist Registration The specialist register is an online list of doctors who are eligible to work as fixed term, honorary or substantive consultants in the NHS, excluding foundation trusts.  If a doctor is on the Specialist Register, it will say so as part of their status on the register, and you will be able to see the specialties (and sub-specialties) they are qualified in, as well as the date they joined the specialist register in each specialty.  Types of Specialist Registration  There are three types of certificates issued by the GMC, and the type of certificate you will receive at the end of your training defines which training route you are on.  You can read more about Specialist Registration for IMGs here.  What roles can I take with Specialist registration?  Doctors who are on the Specialist Register can take up permanent or substantive consultant positions.   Who can apply for Specialist registration?  Eligibility for Specialist Registration depends on your nationality, qualifications and experience. To meet the minimum eligibility requirements to apply you must have either:   A specialist qualification in the specialty you’re applying in  OR   At least six months continuous specialist training in the specialty you’re applying in   You’ll need to provide evidence of how you’re eligible as part of your application. This could be a copy of your qualification or evidence of your employment. In your application you must show that you meet the requirements of the CCT curriculum in your specialty.    4. GP Registration GP Registration is a requirement for any doctor who wishes to be eligible for appointment to a general practitioner (GP) position in the UK.  Please note that unlike in many countries, GPs in the UK are family and community medicine specialists and if you are an IMG general physician, you would need to apply for full registration, not GP registration.  What roles can I take with GP registration?  Doctors who are on the GP Register can take up posts as General Practitioners in the UK. As well as being on the GP Register, you’ll need to complete a number of other processes before you can start work as a GP in the UK. You'll need to join a Performers List and an Induction or Returner Scheme. You can read more about this here.  Who can apply for GP registration?  Doctors may be eligible for entry onto the GP Register if you have a relevant European GP qualification. You can check which GP qualifications are accepted on the GMC’s evidence of qualifications page. You must also check your qualification is on the list of relevant European qualifications, and that:  The title of it is exactly the same as the one in the list  AND  The qualification was issued on or after the reference date listed.  #IMG Tips Use the GMC website – there are many useful resources on the GMC website, including a very helpful registration route finder to help you determine which registration you should apply for.  Research/ think about the types of evidence you will need and make a plan for your application, particularly if you will have to sit any exams.  If you want to contact our specialists use our Candidate Portal today! So there it is, the different types of GMC registration in a nutshell. This is important to understand, particularly for IMGs looking to relocate to the UK and find work in the NHS. If you have any further questions about GMC registration or your route to the UK, please get in touch with us here.   Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:                   

The General Medical Council’s medical register is a full list of all the doctors qualified to work in the UK. Within this, there are different types of registration which doctors must hold to work in different posts in the UK.  All practicing physicians must hold one of these types of registration with a license to practice.  In this article we will discuss the following:   Provisional Registration Full Registration Specialist Registration GP Registration IMG Tips 1. Provisional Registration The purpose of provisional registration is to allow medical graduates to complete an approved internship (FY1). After this, trainees will receive a certificate of experience with which they can apply for full registration.  Provisional registration can be held for a maximum of three years and 30 days (1,125 days) only, which would be enough time within which to complete a 12-month internship. This registration will expire after the allotted time, and you will be removed from the register, however, more time can be provided, and you can find out whether you will be eligible here.  What roles can I take with provisional registration?  With provisional registration, the only service post you are able to take is an FY1 service post, other than an approved UK FY1 programme.  Who can apply for provisional registration?  If you are eligible for full registration, you cannot apply for provisional registration.  Applications for provisional registration will be considered from:   UK medical graduate who completed their medical degree at a UK university  Doctors who graduated from outside the UK with an acceptable primary medical qualification (PMQ) and have passed the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB), but have not completed an internship  Doctors who qualified within certain European countries but do not hold the accompanying certificate required to complete their relevant European qualification – you can see a full list of these countries here.  2. Full Registration Doctors require full registration to work in unsupervised medical practice in the NHS, UK private practice, or to move onto the second year of their internship (FY2) in an approved training programme require a full license to practice.  What roles can I take with full registration?  With full registration, doctors can take up any post aside from GP posts and substantive consultant posts.  Who can apply for full registration?  There are certain criteria you must meet before you are eligible for full registration:  1. Completed the first year (FY1) of the Foundation Programme in the UK  2. Be a Swiss or UK national (or benefit from enforceable community rights) and have either:  A formal qualification listed in The Directive on Recognition of Professional Qualifications; OR An acceptable primary medical qualification from outside the EEA (which has been recognised in Switzerland) with evidence of an acceptable pattern of experience  3. Be an international medical graduate (IMG) with an acceptable PMQ, and enough clinical experience to practice medicine in the UK – you can do this in one of 5 ways:  A pass in the PLAB test Sponsorship by a GMC approved sponsor An acceptable postgraduate qualification or overseas licensing exam Relevant European Qualification (REQ) Eligibility for entry onto the Specialist or GP register Full registration does not have a time limit, but doctors should note that they are required to go through a revalidation process every five years to avoid the license to practice being withdrawn.  You can read more about the routes to GMC Registration through our IMG Resources library.  3. Specialist Registration The specialist register is an online list of doctors who are eligible to work as fixed term, honorary or substantive consultants in the NHS, excluding foundation trusts.  If a doctor is on the Specialist Register, it will say so as part of their status on the register, and you will be able to see the specialties (and sub-specialties) they are qualified in, as well as the date they joined the specialist register in each specialty.  Types of Specialist Registration  There are three types of certificates issued by the GMC, and the type of certificate you will receive at the end of your training defines which training route you are on.  You can read more about Specialist Registration for IMGs here.  What roles can I take with Specialist registration?  Doctors who are on the Specialist Register can take up permanent or substantive consultant positions.   Who can apply for Specialist registration?  Eligibility for Specialist Registration depends on your nationality, qualifications and experience. To meet the minimum eligibility requirements to apply you must have either:   A specialist qualification in the specialty you’re applying in  OR   At least six months continuous specialist training in the specialty you’re applying in   You’ll need to provide evidence of how you’re eligible as part of your application. This could be a copy of your qualification or evidence of your employment. In your application you must show that you meet the requirements of the CCT curriculum in your specialty.    4. GP Registration GP Registration is a requirement for any doctor who wishes to be eligible for appointment to a general practitioner (GP) position in the UK.  Please note that unlike in many countries, GPs in the UK are family and community medicine specialists and if you are an IMG general physician, you would need to apply for full registration, not GP registration.  What roles can I take with GP registration?  Doctors who are on the GP Register can take up posts as General Practitioners in the UK. As well as being on the GP Register, you’ll need to complete a number of other processes before you can start work as a GP in the UK. You'll need to join a Performers List and an Induction or Returner Scheme. You can read more about this here.  Who can apply for GP registration?  Doctors may be eligible for entry onto the GP Register if you have a relevant European GP qualification. You can check which GP qualifications are accepted on the GMC’s evidence of qualifications page. You must also check your qualification is on the list of relevant European qualifications, and that:  The title of it is exactly the same as the one in the list  AND  The qualification was issued on or after the reference date listed.  #IMG Tips Use the GMC website – there are many useful resources on the GMC website, including a very helpful registration route finder to help you determine which registration you should apply for.  Research/ think about the types of evidence you will need and make a plan for your application, particularly if you will have to sit any exams.  If you want to contact our specialists use our Candidate Portal today! So there it is, the different types of GMC registration in a nutshell. This is important to understand, particularly for IMGs looking to relocate to the UK and find work in the NHS. If you have any further questions about GMC registration or your route to the UK, please get in touch with us here.   Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:                       

The identity checks (ID) usually required for GMC registration were paused earlier in the pandemic to comply with government guidance on safe workplaces and social distancing. ID checks have now resumed and are again necessary for all doctors as part of the registration process in the UK.  The GMC has partnered with Digidentity to allow doctors to complete their GMC identity check using a secure app.  In this blog we will be looking at the process of verifying your ID with the GMC to complete the final step in the registration process.  Who needs to complete an ID check?  All doctors joining applying for registration with the GMC must complete an identity check, as well as those who want to restore their registration.   Please note, if you completed an ID check for your PLAB 2 exam, you would not need to attend another one.  When do you need to complete an ID check?  From Wednesday 19th April 2023, you will have three months to book an appointment and complete your ID check. If you don’t, you’ll have to start a new application.  How do I book an ID check?  You will be emailed by the GMC to invite you to complete your identity check as part of your application. Where can I complete my ID check?  It is no longer necessary to come to the UK to complete your identity check - you can instead do this through the free Digidentity app. If you are not able to complete your ID check through the app, you will need to book an appointment at the GMC's London office to complete your check in person. The  Information on booking in-person appointments can be found in your ID check invitation email. You would need to be in the UK, either on your visitor or working visa (if you already got have one).  What documents do I need?  The GMC will accept: passports full UK driving licences Forms of ID that will not be accepted are: provisional UK driving licences, expired documents and scanned or photocopies. At this time, Syrian passports also cannot be used. The GMC recommends that you use your passport if possible; if you use a full driving licence, you may be contacted for additional information. If you attend your ID check in person, you will need to bring the originals of the documents you submitted earlier in your online application. They must be valid on the day of the appointment and will be photocopied and returned to you. How do I use the app to complete my ID check?  The GMC has created a short and easy to follow instruction video explaining the process of using the app to verify your identity. Once you have watched the video, follow the steps below to complete your check using the app. Download the Digidentity app to your mobile phone – you will need a phone with iOS 14 or Android 9 or higher. Log into your GMC Online account – go to the 'My ID checks' section, click on 'Digital ID checks' and follow the step-by-step guide to completing your check.  When you take your selfie, please try to take an acceptable passport style photo.  You should use the email address the GMC contacted you on to create your Digidentity account and complete your check. If you need any support during this process, please contact Digidentity. Once you’ve completed all the steps in the Digidentity app, you must return to the ‘Digital ID check’ section of GMC Online and follow the steps on screen. This will allow Digidentity to send the details of your check to the GMC to review. What happens after I complete my ID check using the app? Once you’ve successfully completed all the steps on the app, you will receive an email from Digidentity confirming your completed registration.  When Digidentity share the results of your check with the GMC, this will be manually reviewed and you will be emailed to confirm whether your check has been successful. Please note, the registration confirmation email from Digidentity does NOT mean that you can now practise medicine in the UK. The GMC will email you separately once you have been granted registration. You must not start work until you have received the GMC confirmation email.  It can take up to ten working days to process your check, and you can monitor the progress of your verification via the 'Digital ID check' section of your GMC Online account. If there are any issues with your check, or if the GMC requires more information, they will contact you to let you know and explain what your options are. How do I complete my in-person ID check? Your identity check appointment lasts around 30 minutes.  The GMC will check your passport and then take a photo of you for their records. This photo may be disclosed to employers on request - this helps them to confirm your identity when you start work, as well as to help protect you from identity fraud.  You will also have to fill and sign the declaration form.  The appointment timings are strict, so the GMC won’t be able to provide advice on any other subjects during your identity check. If you have any other questions, please speak to your applications adviser or the contact centre.  Key information for doctors attending ID checks  For doctors who registered with the GMC at the beginning of the pandemic and did not complete an identity check, the GMC will offer you an ID check at the earliest convenience, so do look out for an email from them.  You will also be able to complete your ID check using the Digidentity app. I’ve completed my ID check, what’s next?  Firstly, congratulations! Once your identity check is complete and the GMC has confirmed your identity, you will immediately be granted registration and your name will be added to the medical register.  Get in touch with our team if you are interested in finding your perfect role in the NHS and relocating to the UK – we’re always happy to help.              

The GMC is the public body that maintains the official register of medical professionals with the UK. Once a doctor has gained full GMC registration, there are a number of actions they may take to maintain their registration and keep their information up to date.   In this blog we will be looking at the how to manage your registration and the different options you have if you need to change your status on the register.  How do I maintain my registration? What is revalidation and who needs it? How do I give up my licence or registration? How do I restore my licence or registration? Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.  Maintaining your Registration In order to manage and maintain your registration and licence to practise, you need to meet certain requirements and keep your information up to date.  The details you need to keep up to date include your address, email, designated body or suitable person (for revalidation purposes) and your direct debit details. This can all be managed through GMC Online.  To change your address, your name or your name and gender status, you will need to complete forms which can be found on the GMC website.   Please note that to change your name and gender status, there is an application process involved.  Revalidation All doctors on the GMC’s medical register with a licence to practise must go through a process called revalidation.   Revalidation allows you to demonstrate that you:  are keeping your knowledge up to date  provide a good level of care  are fit to practise and no concerns have been raised about you  The process of revalidation differs slightly, depending on your revalidation connection type, which you can check using the GMC’s connection tool.  Doctors with a connection – most doctors have a connection and will revalidate their registration and licence every five years, by having annual appraisals based on the GMC’s core guidance for doctors: Good medical practice. All doctors working in the UK must have a designated body and will be given a five yearly recommendation from their responsible officer or suitable person, based on which the GMC would make a decision.  Doctors without a connection – you may not have a connection for example because you are not practising in the UK. In this case, you would similarly revalidate through a process of annual appraisals based on Good medical practice, annual returns submitted to us as well as a five-yearly assessment. The GMC would make a revalidation decision based on the outcomes of these activities.  Doctors in training – these doctors would revalidate through meeting the requirements of their UK training programme and the GMC would make a decision based on a recommendation from the responsible officer of their training body.  Full details on revalidation can be found on the GMC website.  Please note, if you fail to comply with the requirements of registration, including appraisals, this puts your licence to practise at risk.   Changing your Status on the GMC Register If you're no longer practising medicine or enter into work that doesn’t require registration or a licence to practise, you can apply to give up your whole registration or just your licence.  You can choose to give up either your registration or just your licence. Which of the two options is best for you will depend on your circumstances and we will go into more details on this below.  Giving up your licence or registration is not final, and you can apply to restore it again when you're ready.  The table below will allow you to understand whether it would be better for you to relinquish your registration, your licence or both, based on some considerations you may have.  Relinquish your Registration If you give up your licence only, you will still be able to prove your good standing with the GMC to other organisations, but you will pay a reduced annual retention fee. You will not be able to practise medicine in the UK.  Relinquishing your registration (voluntary erasure) means that your name will remain on the GMC register but with the status ‘Not registered – Having relinquished registration’  You can request to give up your registration up to three months in advance, but if you hold full registration with a licence to practise, you will still need to take part in revalidation until your registration ends.   Providing Medical Services If you have provided medical services in the 5 years prior to giving up your registration, you will need to send the GMC a provision of medical services statement, from your employer to confirm you provided a medical service if you have used your medical knowledge and skills as part of your work.  The form can be downloaded from the GMC website and should be completed by the individual, body, or organisation where you most recently provided these services, anywhere in the world. This includes unpaid and voluntary work, or any other sort of arrangement, whether it be formal or informal.  Details of what should be accounted for in the form can be found here.  Fees There is a processing fee which applies when giving up your registration. If your application is received by the GMC:  before your annual retention fee (ARF) is due, you will be refunded any unused part of your ARF.  after your ARF is due, you will have to pay the outstanding balance before the GMC will end your registration.  The fee is £10, but effective 1st April 2023, this will be changed to £0.  Relinquish your Licence If you give up your registration, you will not have to pay an annual retention fee. You will not be able to practise medicine in the UK.  Giving up your licence but keeping your registration means you're able to prove your good standing with the GMC to other organisations. You will not however be able to practise medicine in the UK.  Some things to bear in mind if you give up your licence:  It’s your responsibility to establish that you do not need a licence for your work.  You’re still bound by the principles of Good medical practice if you keep your registration without a licence.  You must tell your employer and those who contract and use your services that you’ve given up your licence.  You can apply to give up your licence to practise through your GMC Online account, through the ‘My Registration’ section and you will not need to provide any evidence or documentation.  Full details of the documentation needed to reinstate your licence can be found here.    Fees There is a processing fee which applies when giving up your licence to practise. The fee is £10, but effective 1st April 2023, this will be changed to £0.  Restore your Licence to Practice If you were up-to-date with revalidation when you gave it up, it is relatively straightforward to have it restored.  From 2016 to 2017, it took on average 22 days for licence restoration, and you can apply for restoration up to three months in advance.  You'll need to send the GMC:  evidence to confirm your identity  statements from organisations you have most recently provided medical services to  certificates of good standing from any other regulators you’ve been registered with in the past five years  You might also be asked to attend an identity check, but the GMC will confirm this once your application has been granted and your licence restored.  Please note, if you were not up-to-date with revalidation when you relinquished your licence, you will be given a new revalidation submission date, and you will need to meet any requirements you failed to meet when you withdrew your licence.  You can apply to restore your licence to practise through your GMC Online account, through the ‘My Registration’ section, then ‘My Applications’.  Fees There is a processing fee which applies when restoring your licence to practise. The fee is £10, but effective 1st April 2023, this will be changed to £0.  Sources https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/managing-your-registration/information-for-doctors-on-the-register/maintain-your-registration  https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/managing-your-registration/information-for-doctors-on-the-register/revalidation  https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/managing-your-registration/changing-your-status-on-the-register/restoration-to-the-register  https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/managing-your-registration/changing-your-status-on-the-register/giving-up-your-licence-to-practise  https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/managing-your-registration/changing-your-status-on-the-register/giving-up-your-registration-and-licence-to-practise   Getting started We hope this article gives you a clearer picture of the different ways you can manage your GMC registration.   If you are looking to restore your registration or licence, get in touch with our team for support in finding your perfect role in the NHS and relocating to the UK – we’re always happy to help.  Read more useful articles on exams, NHS jobs and salaries in our IMG Resources library.  For regular news and updates, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:              

The GMC is the public body that maintains the register of Medical Practitioners in the UK. The chief responsibility of the General Medical Council is to ‘protect, promote and maintain the health and safety of the public’  in addition to improving medical education and practice across the UK. They define their role with the four main duties below: Decide which doctors are qualified to work in the UK Oversee UK Medical education and training Set the standards doctors need to follow throughout their career When necessary, take action to prevent unsafe practice or patient safety being jeopardised How does the GMC support itself? Through people like you! The GMC is supported by fees paid by the doctors that make up its membership, and it became a registered charity in 2001. Where is the GMC based? The GMC has offices in Central London and Manchester and you will need to personally attend an ID check at one of these offices in order to complete your registration. This can also be a great opportunity to meet your IMG Consultant and get to know the UK a little before relocating! Licensing and revalidating doctors in the UK The GMC is also responsible for licensing and revalidating every doctor practising in the UK. This is essential to continued practice and needs completing every 5 years. This will be very important for you in years to come. You can find out more about revalidation here. How do I register with the GMC? Registering with the GMC is a multi-staged process and requires deeper explanation! Find out how to become a fully registered member of the GMC by having a look at our blog on GMC Registration.  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.         

Overseas doctors often have questions about the best ways to prepare for PLAB, particularly with so many online resources available with varying reviews and price points.   So, what study preparation, materials, courses and support are available for international doctors? We have compiled some of the best resources and courses to help you in your preparation for the PLAB 1 exam.   The topics we will cover are as follows:  What is the PLAB 1 exam? What do I need in preparation for the PLAB 1 exam? How do I get started with my revision? What other resources are available? #IMGTips Passed? What’s next? For an overview of the entire examination series, have a look at our article in the IMG Resources library here.  A Recap of PLAB 1 Let’s begin with a quick recap of the first exam in the PLAB examination suite.   PLAB 1 covers the common, important and acute conditions (those common in emergency departments) seen by trainees entering the second year of the Foundation Programme (FY2), and the management of long-term conditions seen in primary care.  Questions relate to current best practice in the UK, and equipment routinely used in UK hospitals. You’ll need to answer the questions in relation to published evidence and not according to practices within your local arrangements. Remember, this is an exam for entry into the UK healthcare system.  For full guidance on the structure of the exam, see our detailed blog on the PLAB 1 exam here.  Preparation You can book your PLAB 1 examination using your GMC Online account where you can view available dates and book under the My Tests section.  Before you book a PLAB exam you must have:  an acceptable overseas primary medical qualification.   a GMC Online account to book or cancel the exam.  evidence of English competency – before you can book a test you will need to provide your English language test scores.   On Saturday 10 December 2022 at 10am (GMT) the GMC will release PLAB 1 places here for the following dates across all locations:  10 August 2023  2 November 2023  Getting Started There are many resources to choose from online in starting your preparation for PLAB 1, however we recommend the following GMC guides to help you start your preparation.  The PLAB Blueprint: this is a helpful guide to what will be included in the exam. Our IMGs advise this is the best place to start with your preparations. The blueprint sets out clearly all the topics and skills needed to pass the exam. Download the PLAB Blueprint here.  The Foundation Programme curriculum: the topics and skills covered in the PLAB Blueprint are identical to those undertaken by doctors starting their second year of Foundation Programme Training (FY2). The curriculum can be found here.  Guidance and interactive tools:  The GMC ‘Good Medical Practice’ document explains the core advice to doctors on the standards expected of them. In the exam you will be expected to demonstrate the professional values and behaviours set out in ‘Good Medical Practice'.  You can test your knowledge of Good Medical Practice using the following online tools:  Explanatory guidance  Good Medical Practice in action interactive online tool  Welcome to UK practice interactive online tool  Sample questions: 30 sample questions along with their answers can be found on the GMC website here.  What other resources are available? You do not need to attend a study or coaching course to pass PLAB 1 and can be passed under your own preparation, but many candidates choose to do so.   Below are additional resources which can be used to aid your preparation.  PLABABLE Question Banks  Limited access (3 – 5 months) to a bank of over 2,500 questions with explanations for the exam, including practice by categories, timed mock practices, revision guides and dedicated study groups. You can access the course here.  MedRevisions Question Bank  An online question bank consisting of more than 4000 questions based on important PLAB 1 topics. The questions are lengthier and slightly more challenging compared to other question banks. There are also customisable mock exams which you can find here.  PLABverse Notes  Compact and organised notes with illustrations and comparisons. Around 300 pages with clinchers and hot notes at the end of each chapter and one-time full access to all chapters. You can choose from 3 plans of 3 months, 6 months or 1 year here.  PLABABLE Revision Course  A 4-day revision course, shooters, giving you the best chance to class club one. In this course you will find expert teachers who developed and wrote the question bank, high-level topics which are frequently asked in the exam and interactive and detailed lectures based on the most recent UK guidelines. Further information about the course can be found here.  PLABABLE Big Mock Exam   The ‘big mock’ features 180 high yield questions, not found in the PLABABLE question bank. The mock is available for six months from purchase, and you will find a mix of topics that will give you a more accurate prediction of where you stand in your preparation. The mock can be found here.  PLAB 1 Keys  PLAB 1 Keys offers an online subscription containing simplified and updated notes (provided as key points) that are required to pass PLAB 1. These are exam explanations compiled and converted into key points with diagrams and flow charts which makes it easier to understand. The subscriptions can be accessed here.  #IMGTips Start your revision early – starting in advance allows you to pace yourself and get ahead of the stresses of last-minute revision and anxiety.  Consider other essentials for the exam – you will need evidence of English language proficiency as well as a GMC online account and these (particularly your English exam) will need to be prepared in advance.   Think about your personal learning style and use this to plan effective revision - consider the ways you study best and use them to your advantage.  Try to take some time off work before the exam – you’ll likely be preparing for the exam alongside full-time work, so, if possible, take around 5-7 days somewhere in the run-up to the exam for some intense revision.  Passed? What's next? Once you have passed PLAB 1, you can take the PLAB 2 examination in the UK. Read our blog for more information on how to sit PLAB 2, which includes everything that you need to know about how to sit the exam, syllabus, dates, results, fees and preparation.  IMG Resources For more useful blogs & articles on exams, registrations & qualifications to help you find your dream job in the NHS - take a look at our IMG library.  Get in Touch Don’t hesitate to get in touch via email or using the 'Ask a Question' button above to discuss job options in the NHS and the best locations for you, CESR and a typical salary in the UK. Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:              

As most overseas doctors may know, there are some non-UK Postgraduate Qualifications that are recognised by the GMC as equivalent. An equivalent qualification will be accepted by the GMC as evidence of the necessary knowledge, skills and experience to apply for full registration with a license to practice. The qualifications listed below are currently accepted by the GMC and are recognised as meeting the same standards as UK postgraduate qualifications. However, this does not mean they are the same in every way, and they do not guarantee entry to the UK Specialty training. What if my qualification is listed below? If your postgraduate qualification is listed below then you will simply need to provide evidence of English Language capabilities by passing an English Language Test (typically IELTS or OET) in order to satisfy the criteria for full registration with the GMC. Read through our blogs on English Language Testing to help answer any questions you may have on the matter. Alternatively, get in touch with one of our IMG Connect consultants (using the details at the bottom of this page) or send us an email with your details and we'll get back to you immediately to talk through any questions or next steps. What if my qualification is not listed below? If your qualification is not listed as equivalent, then you will be required to complete a Royal College Postgraduate Qualification or PLAB. You can use the GMC application finder to find the application that’s right for you. It is important to note, you must be granted full GMC registration within three years of passing your postgraduate qualification. Country Awarding Body Qualification Australia/New Zealand  Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists Fellowship of the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists Australia/New Zealand The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists Fellowship of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (FRANZCO) awarded since January 2010   The Australasian College for Emergency Medicine Fellowship of the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (FACEM) awarded since 2001 Australia/New Zealand   The Royal Australasian College of Physicians  FRACP Adult medicine or evidence of three years of basic training (PREP) + achievement of RACP written and clinical examinations Australia/New Zealand   The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists Fellowship of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (FRANZCP) awarded since January 2012 Australia/New Zealand  The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists  Fellowship of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (FRANZCR) (Clinical Radiology) Fellowship of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (FRANZCR) (Radiation Oncology) Australia/New Zealand  The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine Fellowship of the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (FACRRM) awarded since 1 January 2013 Australia/New Zealand The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (FRACGP) awarded since 1 January 2007 Australia/New Zealand The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners Fellowship of the Division of Rural Hospital Medicine (FDRHMNNZ) awarded since 1 January 2012 Australia/New Zealand The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners Fellowship of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (FRNZCGP) awarded since 1 January 2012 Bangladesh  Bangladesh College of Physicians and Surgeons Fellowship in Anaesthesia or Anaesthesiology awarded between July 1999 and October 2019 Canada  The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada - diagnostic radiology examination Canada The College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) Certification in the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CCFP) awarded since 1 January 2009 Europe European Academy of Anaesthesiology or European Society of Anaesthesiology (previously the European Academy of Anaesthesiology or European Society of Anaesthesiology) Diplomate of European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care (DESAIC) (previously the Diplomate of European Academy of Anaesthesiology DEAA) or Diplomate of European Society of Anaesthesiology (DESA)) Europe European Society of Intensive Care Medicine (ESICM) European Diploma of Intensive Care (EDIC) awarded since January 2015 Hong Kong Hong Kong College of Physicians Membership of the Hong Kong College of Physicians Ireland College of Anaesthesiologists of Ireland  Fellowship of the College of Anaesthesiologists of Ireland (previously Fellowship of the College of Anaesthetists of Ireland) Ireland Royal College of Physicians in Ireland Membership of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (MRCPI) in General Medicine, awarded after 1 January 2007 Membership of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (MRCPI) in Paediatrics (Medicine of Childhood), awarded after 1 January 2007 Membership of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (MRCPI) in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, awarded after 1 January 2007 Membership of the Faculty of Occupational Medicine (MFOM), awarded after 1 January 2007 Membership of the Faculty of Public Medicine (MFPHMI), awarded after 1 January 2007 Ireland Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland MRCS (collegiate examination) MRSC (intercollegiate examination) MRSC (ENT) (intercollegiate examination) Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (FRCSI) Fellowship of the Faculty or the College of Anaesthetists of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Fellowship of the Faculty of Radiologists in Clinical Radiology of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (FFR RCSI) Malaysia  Ministry of Health Master of Medicine (MMED) Malaysia with MRCP (UK) awarded since 1 July 2010 This must include four years of clinical experience (required to complete MMED) plus two years of training Singapore  National University of Singapore Master of Medicine (Internal Medicine) including MRCP (UK)  Singapore  Joint Committee on Specialist Training Singapore  Master of Medicine (MMED) Singapore, plus MRCP (UK) awarded since 1 July 2010 South Africa  College of Anaesthetists of South Africa Fellowship of the College of Anaesthetists of South Africa FCA (SA) South Africa  Colleges of Medicine of South Africa  Fellowship of the College of Radiologists of SA FC Rad Diag (SA) - Diag Rad awarded after 1 October 2013 South Africa  College of Family Physicians of South Africa Fellowship of the College of Family Physicians of South Africa (FCFP(SA)) awarded since 1 January 2007 Sri Lanka  University of Colombo, Sri Lanka Doctor of Medicine or MD (Anaesthesiology) Doctor of Medicine or MD, (Obstetrics and Gynaecology) Doctor of Medicine or MD (medicine) awarded after January 2017 Doctor of Medicine or MD (surgery) awarded after July 2017 United States American Board of Anaesthesiology Certificate of the American Board of Anaesthesiology   The American Board of Radiology  The American Board of Radiology diagnostic radiology examination West Indies  University of the West Indies Doctor of Medicine (Anaesthesia) awarded between September 2003 and May 2014 (Course title has since changed to Doctor of Medicine (Anaesthesia and Intensive 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 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 salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you. Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS:               

There are several routes a microbiologist can take to register with the GMC and practice in the UK.  Microbiologists looking to secure a job in the NHS must satisfy certain criteria before to be eligible for GMC registration, which is a requirement to work in the UK. This generally depends on where you received your training, and the qualifications you hold.  In this blog, we’ll be giving you a snapshot of the steps you need to take to begin your journey to the UK as an overseas microbiologist. We’ll be covering the following:  What is the GMC? What are the requirements for GMC registration? How do I demonstrate my knowledge and skills as an EEA microbiologist? How do I demonstrate my knowledge and skills as a non-EEA microbiologist? How can I demonstrate my English language skills? What is a certificate of good standing and how do I get one? How do I register with the GMC? Will I need a visa to work in the UK? Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.  The General Medical Council The GMC is the body in the UK which is responsible for licensing and revalidating every doctor. Therefore, for every doctor practicing in the UK, GMC registration is essential – you cannot practice in the UK without full GMC registration with a license to practise.  The primary responsibility of the General Medical Council is to ‘protect, promote and maintain the health and safety of the public’ in addition to improving medical education and practice across the UK.  Requirements for GMC Registration Registering with the GMC is a multi-stage process, including key timings, actions and documents. For full GMC registration, international doctors must provide evidence of:   Skills & Knowledge for EEA Microbiologists For microbiologists who trained in an EEA country (all countries inside the EU, also Lichtenstein, Iceland, Switzerland & Norway), you may be able to use your primary medical qualification (PMQ) or specialist qualification to register with the GMC.   Basic Medical Training If you meet the requirements for basic medical training, you would be eligible for full registration.  You will not need to demonstrate your medical knowledge and skills to work as a doctor in the UK and would therefore not need to complete any additional skills and knowledge tests to register for a license to practice.   Specialist Training / Residency If you meet the criteria for entry onto the Specialist Register, then once you have completed the GMC application process, you would be granted Specialist Registration in microbiology and can be appointed as a substantive or permanent consultant in the NHS.   Therefore, for European microbiologists, using your primary medical qualification (PMQ) or specialist qualification is most likely the easiest route to becoming GMC-registered and being able to practice microbiology in the UK.  To find out if your country’s qualifications will allow you to register for either GMC registration; check the relevant GMC page here.  If your training does not meet the GMC requirements for general or specialist registration, other routes you may consider to GMC registration as listed below.   Skills & Knowledge for non-EEA Microbiologists If you qualified as a microbiologist outside the EEA, then you will have to demonstrate that both your medical knowledge and skills meet the level required to practice safely in the UK.  IMG microbiologists can demonstrate skills and knowledge through three main routes:  PLAB PLAB or the Professional & Linguistics Assessment Board is a two-part exam that assesses a doctor’s ability to work safely as an SHO in the NHS, as such it does not demonstrate ability in microbiology specifically. For this reason, PLAB tends to be a route for junior doctors who have not already chosen their field of specialisation in medicine.   That said, for some senior doctors PLAB can be an attractive option, offering a quicker route to the UK, whilst still securing competitive salaries. If taking this option, microbiologists can then take up training or a more senior post once they have established themselves in the NHS. Take a look through our comprehensive guides on PLAB.  FRCPath Microbiology The Royal College of Pathologists is the professional body that regulates the specialism of microbiology in the UK, and Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists (FRCPath) is the full qualification attainable by examination.  For overseas doctors, attaining FRCPath will satisfy the knowledge & skill criteria for GMC registration and facilitate application for more senior roles in UK pathology. Take a look at IMG Resources library for a complete guide to FRCPath to learn more.  GMC-recognised or equivalent qualifications Some overseas qualifications and licensing exams are recognised by the GMC and accepted for registration purposes.   To find out if your qualification is accepted by the GMC, take a look at our blog: GMC-accepted postgraduate qualifications.  English Language Testing Both EEA and non-EEA microbiologists, regardless of experience and country of origin, must demonstrate that they have a sufficient grasp and competence of the English language. This can be done by passing either the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or the OET (OET – Occupational English Test). Detailed guides to these tests can be found below:  IELTS – a guide for overseas doctors  OET – a guide for overseas doctors  Exemption from English tests For doctors who have at least two years of their most recent experience in an English-speaking country, you can use a reference from your current employer or employers over these two or more years to demonstrate competence of the English language. This would exempt you from sitting an English language exam.  Certificate of Good Standing All doctors registering with the GMC must provide a certificate of good standing from each medical regulatory authority they’ve been registered or licensed with in the last five years.  The medical regulatory authority may send you a certificate of past good standing if you're not currently registered or licensed with them. You can find out which medical regulatory authority to contact via the GMC website here.  If there's no medical regulatory authority in the country to issue a certificate, the GMC will give you further advice once your application has been assessed.  Please note that each certificate is only valid for three months from the date it's signed and must be valid when we approve your application.  Applying for GMC Registration Once you’ve completed your English language exam, you can now apply for full GMC registration with a license to practice. For registration, you must provide evidence of:  English language capabilities - either your IELTS, OET or an approved reference from your current employer   AND  Certificate of good standing – the certificate from your medical regulatory authority which demonstrates good standing  AND  (EEA microbiologists) Sufficient skill and knowledge – as an EEA microbiologist, this would either be your recognised EEA qualification  OR  (Non-EEA microbiologist) Sufficient skill and knowledge – as a non-EEA microbiologist, this would either be PLAB, FRCPath or a GMC-approved qualification.  To understand the registration process more fully, read our article on GMC registration for overseas doctors here.  Visas IMGs relocating to the UK will need to apply for a visa from the Home Office.  A Tier 2 visa is the document given to a skilled worker by the UK Home Office following a job offer from a UK employer with a valid Tier 2 Sponsorship License. The list of valid Tier 2 Sponsors can be found here.  Understand Tier 2 visas and Certificates of Sponsorship in depth by taking a look at our article: Tier 2 Visa application process & documents needed.  Wondering whether you can relocate with your family? Take a look at our blog on the Tier 2 dependent visa below: Tier 2 Dependent visa - Can I bring my family with me to the UK?  There you have it! Hopefully this clarifies any worries or doubts you may have on your route to the UK as a microbiologist planning a career in the NHS. If you have any questions or wish to know more about the microbiology job market, then get in touch with our team.  For regular news and updates on the Royal College and all things pathology, follow IMG Connect on social media using the links below:              

FRCR Part 1 or CR1 is the first exam in the FRCR postgraduate qualification. The completion of all the exams in the Fellowship of the Royal College of Radiologists (FRCR) examination suite leads to eligibility for GMC registration. The exams can be taken by IMGs from any country, provided certain criteria have been met. In this article, we’ll take a look at the following:  An overview of FRCR exams A deep dive into FRCR Part 1 How is the exam marked? Am I eligible for the exam? As an overseas radiologist, where can I sit the exam? How much will the exam cost and how do I apply? What is the best way to prepare for the exam? #IMG Tips I’ve passed the FRCR Part 1 exam, what’s next? Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.  An Overview of FRCR FRCR is the set of postgraduate examinations administered by the Royal College of Radiologists to test a candidate’s knowledge and clinical understanding within the scope of the Specialty Training Curriculum for Clinical Radiology.  The exams are as follows:  Please note that only full FRCR satisfies the postgraduate requirements for overseas doctors.  You can read an overview of the full FRCR examination suite via our IMG Resources library.  For doctors who are interested in securing senior roles in the NHS which are reflective of their current practice or grade, we advise that FRCR is the best route to take to GMC registration. FRCR is often a requirement for NHS locum consultant job postings where candidates are not already on the Specialist Register for radiology. The FRCR route allows senior candidates to better align their qualifications with the specifications of relevant jobs.  FRCR Part 1 - Anatomy & Physics FRCR Part 1 is the first in the set of FRCR exams. This exam expects candidates to have gained knowledge of the physical principles that underpin diagnostic medical imaging and of the anatomy needed to perform and interpret radiological studies.  The exam is designed to assess whether candidates have an appropriate knowledge of the anatomy that underpins all radiological imaging including radiography, fluoroscopy, angiography, computed tomography (CT), ultrasound imaging and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).  The two components of the exam are Anatomy and Physics. Anatomy The exam features an electronic image viewing session, mimicking what radiologists would encounter in clinical practice in order to be valid, thus the questions consist of radiological images on a computer screen as this is the normal medium, as opposed to film or printed on paper.  The exam includes 100 questions - most of these are quite straightforward with an arrow indicating a specific anatomical structure as shown by a specific modality. These are typically “name the arrowed structure” questions, with space provided for a free text answer.   The exam lasts 90 minutes and individual modalities are given roughly equal weight as follows:  cross-sectional  plain radiographs  contrast studies  Different body parts are also given roughly equal weight covering the following areas:   head, neck and spine  chest and cardiovascular  abdomen and pelvis  musculoskeletal  Recognising a radiological anatomical structure and unprompted recall of its precise name is a key aspect of the everyday work of clinical radiologists, and doing so in a timely manner without routine recourse to reference material reflects real-life clinical practice.  Physics The purpose of the physics exam is to assess whether candidates understand the underlying principles that underpin the generation of images in the various modalities, such that they:   select the most appropriate imaging technique for a clinical scenario from the intrinsic properties of the method of image generation  understand the risk, safety and quality consideration that are inherent in image generation to allow an informed choice of the appropriate modality and any alteration in technique  demonstrate the requirements of legislation that require the use of those techniques that require ionising radiation to be justified by a professional had been met  This exam lasts two hours and comprises 40 questions. Each question includes a stem (a question or statement) and five items (answers). The answers must be marked true or false and it is possible for all five items to be true or for all to be false.  The question distribution of the physics paper is as follows:  matter and radiation – 3  radiography & fluoroscopy – 6  radionuclide imaging – 6  radiation safety – 6  computed tomography – 6  magnetic resonance imaging – 6  ultrasound – 6  other – 1  Marking  Both exams are marked by a delivery platform which is programmed with the correct answers.  Marks are awarded for each exam as follows:  The anatomy examination is marked out of 200, and answers are marked as follows:  full accuracy = 2 marks  less accuracy, but still correct (e.g. omits ‘left’ or ‘right’ for a paired structure) = 1 mark  incorrect = 0 marks  The physics examination is marked out of 40, and answers are marked as follows:  correct = 1 mark  incorrect = 0 marks  The standard for success is determined based on the difficulty of the questions in each sitting and may therefore vary between sittings and sets of images.  For more information on the exam content and structure, read the guidance notes for candidates on the College website.  Eligibility The eligibility criteria for FRCR Part 1 is: holding a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) that is recognised by the GMC for registration purposes. holding a formal clinical radiology post in which they are actively receiving clinical radiology training.  no minimum period of clinical experience or training is required to enter the exams Exam Centres The current venues for the First FRCR (CR1) exam are:  Belfast, Birmingham, Bridgend Wales, Crewe, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, London and Plymouth. Overseas centres for now are in Hong Kong, Singapore, India, Egypt and Malta.  The exam is typically held three times a year over two consecutive days. 2023 exam dates are as follows:  February 2023 Physics – Thursday 9 February  Anatomy – Friday 10 February  June 2023 Physics – Thursday 8 June  Anatomy – Friday 9 June  September 2023 Physics – Thursday 14 September  Anatomy – Friday 15 September  For updates on exam dates, including the application window, keep an eye on the Royal College website here.  Applications & Cost First FRCR (CR1) 2023 exam cost:  Members - £319  Non-members - £406  Please note that these costs vary slightly for some overseas centres. UK trainees are given priority for examination places, followed by members of the Royal College and finally non-members. Each window lasts around a week and all candidates should apply for the exams through the Royal College website here.   Preparation Although there are many online materials to aid in your preparation for FRCR Part 1, as always, we recommend you start your preparation on the Royal College website, particularly with the Specialty Training Curriculum for Clinical Radiology. In using these as a blueprint for your preparation, you will ensure your study is focused on the most relevant and useful information as prescribed directly from teaching materials.   Instructional video and demonstration site: a walkthrough video of the FRCR Part 1 exam format with guidance and instructions which can be found here for the physics component and here for anatomy.   Anatomy module guidance: advice for the anatomy module has been compiled by the College here.  Specimen questions: sample questions and answers have been put together by the College and are available here.  #IMG Tips Prepare early – the best way to avoid stress and last-minute cramming is to get started as soon as possible.  Get familiar with the exam content – during your study (at least to start off with), the curriculum should be your guide to the FRCR exams.  Practise, practise, practise – go through as many practice questions as you can and regularly review your progress using mock exams. Sources https://www.rcr.ac.uk/clinical-radiology/examinations/frcr-part-1-radiology-cr1  https://www.rcr.ac.uk/sites/default/files/cr1_anatomy_purpose_of_assessment_statement.pdf  https://www.rcr.ac.uk/sites/default/files/cr1_physics_purpose_of_assessment_statement.pdf   https://www.rcr.ac.uk/sites/default/files/clinical_radiology_curriculum_2020.pdf   I’ve passed the First FRCR exam, what’s next? Firstly, congratulations! This is an incredible achievement, and you deserve to treat yourself after all that hard work! With a pass in the First FRCR in hand, you can look ahead to the Final FRCR CR2A and CR2B exams. Once you have completed all parts of FRCR, you can apply for full GMC registration with a license to practice.  Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team to learn more about the opportunities available to you once you’ve passed FRCR.  For the latest news and updates on all things radiology, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.              

GMC Registration can be a long and complex process. With several options available for overseas doctors to demonstrate evidence of their skills and knowledge, it might be difficult to decide the best route to take to register with the GMC.   For international doctors planning their route to the UK, the two most common and popular routes by far are the UK postgraduate qualifications (MRCEM for emergency medicine physicians) or PLAB. Here we provide a summary of both pathways and briefly consider their benefits to help you make the best choice in your journey to the UK as an IMG.  GMC Registration for Overseas Doctors PLAB for GMC Registration MRCEM for GMC Registration Which is better for me as an IMG: PLAB or MRCEM? #IMG Tips How do I get started? Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.  GMC Registration for Overseas Doctors Registering with the GMC is a multi-stage process, including key timings actions and documents. To receive full registration, international doctors must provide evidence of:   What is often the most long and challenging part of the process is providing sufficient evidence of skills and knowledge, however, you can check whether you have a GMC-accepted postgraduate qualification here.  There are 5 ways in which an overseas doctor can demonstrate their skills and knowledge:  PLAB  Acceptable Postgraduate Qualification / Licensing Examination  Relevant European Qualification  Sponsorship / MTI  CESR / CESR-CP / CEGPR  Please note that only one type of evidence is required to demonstrate skills and knowledge for GMC registration.  Of these routes, the most accessible are PLAB and the Acceptable Postgraduate Qualification because they are two of the only routes that do not depend on the country you’ve trained in – the UK postgraduate exams and PLAB can be sat by doctors.  For a detailed breakdown of all the routes available to IMGs, see our blog here.  PLAB - Professional & Linguistics Assessment Board The first and most common route we’ll be discussing, which is particularly popular among junior doctors, is PLAB.  PLAB is a two-part exam (one written and one practical element), which assesses whether a candidate is at least as capable as a doctor starting the second year of their Foundation Programme Training (FY2 or F2) and can therefore work safely as an SHO (Senior House Officer) in the NHS.  The GMC has produced a useful video summary of the PLAB exams which you can watch here, or for a more detailed overview, see our IMG Resources library.  MRCEM - UK Postgraduate Qualification for Emergency Medicine The UK’s postgraduate qualifications are a more popular route for senior overseas doctors, and those looking to gain posts in the NHS which are reflective of their experience.  For emergency medicine, this can be done by attaining Membership of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine. The Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) is the professional body that regulates the specialism of emergency medicine in the UK, and Membership of the College of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (MRCEM) is the full qualification attained through these examinations.  Take a look at our IMG Resources library for complete guides on MRCEM to learn more.  You can also read our interview with Dr Behzad Rashid to learn about the experience of an IMG Emergency Medicine resident going through MRCEM.  PLAB vs MRCEM Both MRCEM and PLAB are respectable routes that demonstrate skills and knowledge and will allow an international doctor to register with the GMC and work in the UK. To decide which route of the two is best for you, you’ll need to consider the benefits of each and how they align with your needs and priorities in moving to the UK.  Seniority of Positions in the NHS It would be difficult for an overseas emergency medicine doctor to obtain a more senior post in the NHS without either MRCEM, a GMC-approved training programme, or extensive experience from a similar English-speaking healthcare system. PLAB alone will not give overseas doctors access to senior posts in the NHS.  Training To practice as a consultant in the UK, you must have gone through specialty training and will need a GMC-recognised postgraduate qualification to do so, whether a qualification from the country in which you completed your specialty training, or MRCEM.  Due to the more specialised nature of MRCEM, we advise emergency medicine doctors to complete MRCEM, as many NHS Trusts will list MRCEM as a requirement on job descriptions. MRCEM also allows IMGs access to more senior roles and competitive salaries.   Time PLAB has two stages and can take anywhere between 3-9 months to prepare from start to finish.  MRCEM has three stages, the last of which must be taken after at least 24 months of postgraduate experience with at least 6 months in emergency medicine and can take anywhere between 24-36 months to prepare from start to finish.  Cost MRCEM costs £1,115 for the three exams. Whilst the Primary and Intermediate SBA exams are delivered worldwide via computer-based testing company, the OSCE is delivered in London (UK), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Kochi (India), so there may be the added expense of international travel.   PLAB costs £1,189, and whilst PLAB 1 can be sat in many overseas centres around the world, PLAB 2 is only delivered in the UK. You can find a list of overseas centres for PLAB 2 here.  So for both MRCEM and PLAB, candidates will have to travel to the UK, meaning that the additional cost of visas, accommodation and flights must be factored in.  It’s also important to note that these costs can rise if re-sits of the exams are necessary.  Summary PLAB, as an exam which examines a doctor’s ability to work safely as an SHO, does not assess ability in emergency medicine specifically. For this reason, PLAB tends to be a route for junior doctors who have not already chosen their field of specialisation in medicine, I.e., emergency medicine.  PLAB allows doctors to enter the UK system much faster than other routes and for this reason alone, it is favoured by international doctors when considering their path to the UK.  MRCEM involves three more difficult examinations and takes more time to prepare for. However, for overseas doctors, attaining MRCEM will allow you to jumpstart your career in the UK, as you don't need PLAB or Core Training.  Additionally, MRCEM will facilitate the application for more senior roles in UK emergency medicine than PLAB.  #IMG Tips Determine your priorities – your goals and timeline for relocating to the UK are important in deciding which route is best for, and this is different for everyone.  Plan well ahead – depending on the route you choose, you may be embarking on a long journey through these exams, so plan how you will fit them into your life and how best to prepare to maintain a good work-life balance at the same time.  Find a support network – once you know which exams you will sit, find a support network of others who are also preparing for the exam.   Sources https://rcem.ac.uk/exam-mrcem/  https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/plab  https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/before-you-apply/evidence-to-support-your-application  Getting started Once you’ve decided which exams are best for you, it’s time to delve deeper into the exams and what they entail. For more useful blogs and articles on PLAB or MRCEM, registrations and qualifications to help you find your dream job in the NHS - take a look at our IMG Resources library.   Don’t hesitate to get in touch with one our recruitment specialists if you would like to discuss your options in the NHS once you have completed PLAB or MRCEM.   For the latest news and updates on all things emergency medicine, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.              

The UKMLA or MLA (Medical Licensing Assessment) is a new assessment being introduced by the GMC to replace PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) for international medical graduates (IMGs) and UK medical students.  The UKMLA will be the new standard test of the core knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to practise safely in the UK.  In this blog we will be taking a closer look at the assessment and the transition from PLAB, focusing on some key questions:  Why is the MLA being introduced? Who will need to take the UKMLA? What is the timeline for the transition? How will the UKMLA be structured? Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.  Introducing the UKMLA Currently, PLAB is the assessment used to ensure doctors who qualified abroad have the right knowledge and skills to practise medicine in the UK. Once an IMG has completed both parts of PLAB, they are eligible for full GMC registration.  For UK trainees however, full registration is gained on moving to the second year of the Foundation Programme (F2/ FY2) in an approved training programme.  There is therefore no standard used for both UK medical graduates and international doctors, so the GMC has created the MLA with the stated aim of setting a common threshold for safe practice in the UK, regardless of where a doctor was educated or trained.  UKMLA Candidates From 2024, all IMGs who would have sat the PLAB test will take the MLA if they’re applying for registration with a licence to practise in the UK. This means that if you are an overseas doctor taking another route to GMC registration, this is still available to you if you are eligible.  UK medical students graduating in the academic year 2024-25 will also need to pass the MLA as part of their medical school degree, before they can join the medical register.  You can find more information about your possible routes to the UK as an international doctor in our detailed guide here.  Transitioning from PLAB to MLA Until 2024, IMGs will still be able to apply for PLAB in order to gain GMC registration. As overseas doctors wanting to come to the UK through this route will be in different stages of the process, the GMC has laid out the following guidelines which will be in place during the transition to the UKMLA:  I have passed both parts of PLAB I have passed PLAB 1, but not yet attempted PLAB 2 I have attempted PLAB 1, but not yet passed it I have passed PLAB 1 and attempted PLAB 2, but not yet passed it Passed both parts of PLAB There will be no changes here: you will still have up to two years from the date that you passed PLAB to apply for full GMC registration with a licence to practise.  Passed PLAB 1, but not attempted PLAB 2 As long as you passed PLAB 1 within the past two years, you won't need to take the AKT. However, instead of PLAB 2, you will take the CPSA.  Once you pass the CPSA, you'll be able to apply for full registration with a licence to practise (this must be within two years of passing the CPSA).  Attempted PLAB 1, but not passed it You will sit the AKT.  There will be a maximum number of attempts and any previous attempts at PLAB 1 will count towards this maximum number. The GMC is currently still finalising that maximum number.  After passing the AKT, you will need to take the CPSA within two years.  Passed PLAB 1 and attempted PLAB 2, but not passed As long as you passed PLAB 1 within the past two years, you won't need to take the AKT.  Instead of PLAB 2, you will take the CPSA.   There will be a maximum number of attempts and any previous attempts at PLAB 2 will count towards this maximum number. The GMC is currently still finalising that maximum number.  Once you pass the CPSA, you'll be able to apply for full registration with a licence to practise (this must be within two years of passing the CPSA).  Structure & Format of the UKMLA The UKMLA will be composed of two parts: the applied knowledge test (AKT) and the clinical and professional skills assessment (CPSA). Both components will assess a range of things, all of which are outlined in the MLA learning outcomes. The main purpose of the MLA is to assess the knowledge and competencies related to safe medical practice in the UK.  1. The applied knowledge test (AKT) This is planned to be an on-screen exam, with multiple choice questions. It will test your ability to apply medical knowledge to different scenarios. The AKT will be similar to the current PLAB 1 exam.  The AKT for overseas doctors will be set by the GMC, whereas for UK medical students, the exam will be run by medical schools. Information from the UK exams will be used to ensure that the assessment is comparable and consistent, where appropriate.   The test is expected to be held four times a year for international candidates, at a number of locations worldwide.  You will need to pass the AKT before you can take the CPSA.   2. The clinical and professional skills assessment (CPSA) The CPSA for international doctors will be held at the GMC’s clinical assessment centre in Manchester. The CPSA will be similar to the current PLAB 2 exam.  For UK medical students, the CPSA will be set and run by their medical school. Each UK medical school calls the CPSA something different e.g. an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), however the GMC will set requirements that all CPSAs must meet.  Exam Structure The MLA content map tells you more about the topics and areas that your AKT and CPSA assessments could cover.  The MLA has three overarching themes: readiness for safe practice, managing uncertainty, and delivering person-centred care; and six sections, called domains.  Areas of clinical practice, such as mental health and surgery  Areas of professional knowledge, such as biomedical sciences and medical ethics and law  Clinical and professional capabilities, such as assessing and managing risk and safeguarding vulnerable patients  Practical skills and procedures, as set out in the list of practical skills and procedures that supplements the GMC’s Outcomes for graduates (2018)  Patient presentations, which relates to signs, symptoms, investigation results and other relevant patient-related issues typically seen by doctors in a first appointment within the UK Foundation Programme e.g. a chronic rash or breast lump  Conditions, which are pathophysiological diseases or clinical diagnoses typically seen by doctors in a first appointment within the UK Foundation Programme e.g. asthma and eating disorders  In the future, sample questions will be provided by the GMC for the AKT so that you can get a better feel for the test.  Other Key Information Cost Similarly to PLAB, you will have to pay a fee to sit the UKMLA as an IMG. The fees have yet to be set by the GMC, but will be published once determined.   EEA Graduates Decisions about whether EEA graduates will need to sit the MLA from 2024 will be informed by government-led agreements and trade deals. The GMC will provide an update on this situation once there is more information about future arrangements.  English Language Requirements The MLA won't change the GMC’s English language requirements for registration. You must still prove that you have the necessary knowledge of English to practise safely in the UK.  Sources https://www.gmc-uk.org/education/medical-licensing-assessment   https://www.gmc-uk.org/education/medical-licensing-assessment/uk-students-guide-to-the-mla  The introduction of the UKMLA is a significant change to one of the most popular routes taken by IMGs wanting to work in the NHS. Despite the change, there are always several options available to overseas doctors wanting to relocate to the UK. Feel free to get in touch with our team to discuss your options.  Read more useful articles on exams, NHS jobs and salaries in our IMG Resources library.              

Doctors from any country can apply for Specialist Registration in the UK, provided they meet certain eligibility criteria, though there are different routes available based on the doctor’s training and qualifications.  In this blog we’ll be exploring Specialist Registration in medical oncology for overseas medical oncologists more closely. We’ll look at all aspects of Specialist Registration, focusing more closely on the Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration (CESR), including the application process, costs, and eligibility criteria, along with some other topics, summarised in the headings below:  What is Specialist Registration? What route is best for me as an overseas oncologist? Do I have to complete CESR before I can work in the UK? Do I need MRCP (UK) for Specialist Registration? What is the CESR equivalence process? What evidence do I need to submit for a CESR in medical oncology? How much does CESR cost? How long is the CESR application process? #IMG Tips How do I get started? Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you’re looking for.  Specialist Registration  Holding Specialist Registration in any CCT specialty means that you can be appointed to a substantive (or permanent) consultant position in the NHS. All medical oncologists who wish to take permanent consultant roles in the UK must show evidence of skills, knowledge, and experience equivalent to a CCT in order to apply for Specialist Registration.   For oncologists, attaining specialist registration will mean you are qualified to practice independently as a medical oncology consultant in the NHS.   Specialist Registration is additional to full registration with the GMC and is therefore not required to practice as a medical oncologist in the UK.  Routes to Specialist Registration  There are three types of certificates issued by the GMC for Specialist Registration, and the type of certificate you receive depends on the training route you followed.  CCT for UK-trained Oncologists  For doctors who have completed a GMC-approved training programme, an application must be made to the GMC for a CCT in their specialty within 12 months of their completion date in order to qualify. After this point, they will be required to use the CESR route to apply directly to the GMC if they wish to attain Specialist Registration.  CCT for EEA-trained Oncologists  Doctors who have trained outside the UK or Switzerland, but within an EEA country, will be awarded CCT (Certificate of Completion of Training) after a successful specialist registration application. Specialist Certifications from across the EU are deemed as equivalent by the GMC, and therefore a straightforward application can be made. You can read more about this in the Specialist Registration section under your country on the GMC website here.  CESR-CP for Oncologists who have complete part of a GMC-approved training programme  CESR(CP) is a simplified route to Specialist Registration for doctors who joined their specialty training programme after ST1, and therefore do not meet the requirement of 4 years duration in GMC-approved training on completion, as they began their training overseas and completed it in the UK.  CESR for Overseas Oncologists  For overseas doctors who have completed their full training outside a GMC-approved training programme, CESR is the route they will usually take towards attaining Specialist Registration. This route does not require further training, rather the submission of an application.   You can read a detailed breakdown of Specialist Registration in the UK in our IMG Resources library.  Medical Oncology Positions in the NHS without CESR  It is important to note that you can apply for senior oncology roles in the NHS, such as a specialty doctor (SAS), specialist grade or a locum consultant without being on the Specialist Register.  Similarly, CESR is not required by overseas doctors before moving to the UK to work in the NHS.  In these senior NHS roles, you will have better pay and responsibilities that are more appropriate to your level of experience compared to a trainee. Within these positions, you can collect evidence of your competences, particularly those specific to the UK medical oncology curriculum.  These positions also facilitate a faster route to the UK than the CESR route, which can take a substantial amount of time.  Get in touch with us to find out more about senior positions in the NHS with CESR support.  MRCP (UK) for Specialist Registration  Whilst it is always beneficial to complete MRCP (UK), particularly for doctors who have trained outside of the UK or an EEA country, overseas doctors looking to join the Specialist Register do not need to have completed the Royal College postgraduate exams.  The standard test of knowledge in the Medical Oncology curriculum are the MRCP (UK) exams, so passing these exams confirms the attainment of the competencies of the core curriculum.  MRCP (UK) is only a requirement for doctors looking to attain Specialist Registration via the CCT route.  The structure of the programme is an indicative two years in Core Medical Training or Acute Care Common Stem (ACCS), followed by an indicative four years of training in Medical Oncology. Therefore, applicants need to demonstrate the appropriate level of acute medicine expertise as well as competencies in medical oncology.  You can read more about the evidence required in the specialty specific guidance here.  CESR Equivalence Process  Equivalence describes the process of assessing an overseas applicant’s training and experience against the current medical oncology training programme requirements, in order to be awarded CESR.  The equivalence process involves submitting a written body of evidence to the GMC, consisting of:  training and/or competence  skills and knowledge  The Royal College of Physicians will assess each application against the relevant curriculum before providing a recommendation to the GMC, who will then make a decision.  Please note that Equivalence procedures are the responsibility of the GMC. Applications are made through their Certification Department and initial enquiries should be directed there.  Evidence Requirements for CESR in Medical Oncology  Skills & Experience: The evidence provided for a CESR application in oncology must cover the knowledge, skills, and qualifications to demonstrate the required competencies in all areas of the Medical Oncology Curriculum. If evidence is missing from any area of the curriculum, the application will fail.  Primary Evidence: To demonstrate that you can do what is required by the curriculum, you need to submit primary evidence of your medical practice which shows how you work on a day-to-day basis: letters, reports, assessments etc. References, retrospective case summaries, and reflective notes can all be used in a CESR application, but by themselves they are not sufficient.  Audit and Governance: You are required to submit evidence of your active leadership in audit, including evidence that you have completed at least one audit cycle  Currency of evidence: Your evaluators will be looking for evidence of current competency, generally defined as within the last five years. If you have completed training before this point, it is crucial that you provide evidence of maintaining competency across the whole area of the curriculum.   The GMC asks that only evidence that is strictly relevant is sent as it will help them to process the application quicker. The guidance on compiling your evidence will help you to decide what is relevant and what is not – you can find this on the GMC website here.  As a general guide, the GMC usually expects to see about 800 - 1000 pages of evidence, divided into four different domains, reflecting those of Good Medical Practice. The GMC recommends that you apportion the evidence provided as shown below:  Domain 1 – Knowledge, skills, and performance  Domain 2 – Safety and quality  Domain 3 – Communication, partnership, and teamwork  Domain 4 – Maintaining trust  Please note, you cannot compensate for evidence lacking in one area by providing more evidence in another area.  The full list of evidence required for each domain can be found on the GMC website here.  CESR Application Cost  All oncologists applying for Specialist Registration must pay a fee. As of 1st April 2022, for CESR, this fee is £1,727. For CESR-CP and CCT, the cost is £452.  How long does it take to complete an application for CESR in Medical Oncology?  The GMC estimate that it can take between six and eight months to receive a decision, from the date you submit your CESR application.  As there is a substantial amount of evidence to gather for a CESR application, the process of preparing all the necessary documentation and applying for CESR can take even longer than this, and a typical candidate will usually set out to complete this within 1 – 3 years.  It is worth noting that more senior oncologists, such as consultants, are more likely to have achieved all the competences outlined in the curriculum.  The indicative period of training for a CCT in medical oncology is six years, so it is highly unlikely that you would achieve the competencies required for a CCT in a shorter period of time. Therefore, CESR is not suitable for more junior oncologists.  #IMG Tips  Research/think about the types of evidence you will need and begin to gather your evidence well in advance of making your application.   Gather evidence prospectively – this is much easier than retrospectively trying to pull together the evidence under additional pressures.  Make sure that your evidence is of the highest possible quality and is current – you will be assessed against the most recent curriculum.   Ensure that the evidence you collect demonstrates your competence across the whole of the Medical Oncology curriculum, not just your sub-specialty.     Remember to refer to the most up-to-date Medical Oncology CCT Curriculum and Specialty Specific Guidance for the evidence requirements in your specialty.   Create a CESR ‘to-do list’ with sections under the GMC’s 4 domain headings – organise your evidence directly into these sections to manage your progress.  Do not submit original documents – all your copies, other than qualifications you’re getting authenticated must be accompanied by a proformas signed by the person who is attesting to the validity and accuracy of your evidence (your verifier).  Ask an IMG Connect recruitment specialist about NHS oncology posts with CESR support. These are not always advertised by a Trust, but we can help you find a role which aligns well with your career goals in the NHS.  Join the online community - join the IMG Oncologists Facebook group for access to a community of like-minded MRCP aspirants and dedicated oncology recruiters. In this group you will find tailored resources for oncology IMGs, including access to our MRCP crash courses, completely free to all doctors. You can access our IMG Oncologists community here. Sources  https://www.jrcptb.org.uk/certificate-eligibility-specialist-registration   https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/registration-applications/specialist-application-guides/specialist-registration-cesr-or-cegpr  https://www.gmc-uk.org/-/media/documents/sat---ssg---medical-oncology---dc2310_pdf-48455474.pdf   Getting started  Many oncology IMGs likely haven’t completed a UK-approved training programme, but you could be eligible for Specialist Registration with the GMC via the CESR route. Take a look at our guide to CESR applications for medical oncology for more information on how to apply and what to expect.  If you have any further questions about Specialist Registration, your route to the UK, or would like guidance in finding NHS posts which offer CESR support, please get in touch with us here.   Follow us on social media through the links below for regular news and updates on the Royal Colleges, relocating to the UK and working in the NHS: