There are several routes overseas paediatricians can take to GMC registration and securing an NHS paediatrics job.  Whether you are from inside or outside of Europe, will need to satisfy certain criteria to fully register with the General Medical Council (GMC) before beginning their journey in the NHS. The criteria you need to meet depends on where you currently live and practice, either inside the EEA (& associated countries) or outside the EEA. This article is designed to give you a snapshot of the steps you need to take to start your journey to the UK, no matter where in the world you live.  Inside the EEA – click here Outside the EEA – click here “Doctors from countries around the world play a vital and significant role in our NHS and in the delivery of safe patient care. This is not only welcome but is part of the continuous exchange of knowledge in healthcare and should be strongly encouraged. They make an invaluable contribution to the NHS.”  Joint statement from the Royal College of Physicians Inside the EEA Firstly, it is important to note that where we refer to EEA in this article this refers to all countries inside the EU, including Lichtenstein, Iceland & Norway.  If you qualified as a paediatrician inside the EEA or Switzerland, then the good news is that you don’t need to demonstrate your medical knowledge and skills to work as a doctor in the UK – you have already done this, and thanks to the EU your qualification is deemed equivalent. In addition, you will not need to apply for a visa from the UK Home Office.  So, the main hurdle that you will face is demonstrating that your English skills are of a high enough standard to practice safely as a doctor in the UK & NHS.  English Language Testing Any international doctor, regardless of specialty, experience or country of origin, must demonstrate they have sufficient competence of the English language. You can do this by passing either of the following: IELTS – International English Language Testing System OET – Occupational English Test Take a look at our helpful articles below for detailed information on both tests:  IELTS – a guide for overseas doctors OET – a guide for overseas doctors GMC Registration Having passed your English Language Test, you can now apply for full registration with a licence to practice with the GMC. For full GMC registration you must provide evidence of: Evidence of English language capabilities (IELTS or OET) AND Evidence of sufficient skill and knowledge (your equivalent qualifications) Understand the registration process in full & by reading our article below: IMG resources - GMC Registration for overseas doctors Job search We recommend starting the job search as early as possible. Demand for European paediatricians in the NHS is ever-increasing - the NHS welcomes you with open arms!  At IMG Connect we specialise in securing jobs for European doctors in the UK and can offer you a wider range of paediatrics jobs than are readily available online.  Our network extends to Paediatrics services and HR departments across the UK, so no matter what your grade or specialty we can ensure you will be interviewing for roles well in advance of any relocation plans.  In addition, your dedicated consultant, with a speciality knowledge of paediatrics, will negotiate on your behalf ensuring you get the most competitive salary.  Our aim is to have a job offer on the table before your GMC registration is complete, giving you the peace of mind of having an agreed contract in place - leaving you to carefully plan your relocation to the UK. Take a look at our most recent jobs: Job Search Relocation Obviously, any doctor’s journey isn’t all exams, registrations and language tests… there’s also the small matter of relocation and settling into life in the UK. Once you have secured your role in the UK, we focus on supporting you and your family with all your relocation plans. This can include, but is not exclusive to, securing accommodation, travel planning, setting up bank accounts & national insurance numbers – every step of the way we are here to help. Have a read through our IMG Library and take in all the beautifully organised information on relocation and UK life to immeasurably help your first days, weeks and months in the UK. IMG Resources – Relocation & UK Life Outside of the EEA If you qualified as a paediatrician outside the EEA, then you will have to demonstrate that both your medical knowledge & skills and English Language capabilities meet the level required to practice safely in the UK. In addition, you will need to apply for a visa from the UK Home Office.  Here we summarise the requirements for paediatrics doctors, looking at the following: English Language Testing Evidence of Knowledge & Skills - PLAB, MRCPCH or equivalents Tier 2 Visas  Full GMC Registration English Language Testing Any international doctor, regardless of specialty, experience or country of origin, must demonstrate they have sufficient competence of the English language. You can do this by passing either of the following: IELTS – International English Language Testing System OET – Occupational English Test Take a look at our helpful articles below for detailed information on both tests:  IELTS – a guide for overseas doctors OET – a guide for overseas doctors Evidence of Knowledge & Skills in Paediatrics Overseas paediatricians must prove to the GMC they have sufficient knowledge & skills to practice safely in the UK. For paediatricians this can be done through three main routes: PLAB Royal College qualification of MRCPCH GMC - recognised or equivalent qualifications Route 1 - PLAB: The PLAB exam 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 Paediatrics 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, paediatricians 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: PLAB – a guide for overseas doctors PLAB 1 – a closer look PLAB 2 – a closer look Route 2 - Royal College Qualification of MRCPCH: Attaining a Royal College qualification is a preferred path for doctors who have already chosen their field of specialism i.e. Paediatrics. For senior paediatricians taking this route, they will gain access to more senior, well-paid jobs in the specialism of their choice.  The Royal College of Paediatricians is the Professional Body that regulates the specialism of Paediatrics in the UK, and Membership of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (MRCPCH) is the full qualification attainable by examination. For overseas doctors, attaining MRCPCH will satisfy the knowledge & skill criteria for GMC registration and facilitate application for more senior roles in UK Paediatrics. Take a look at our complete guide on Membership of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health to understand more: MRCPCH – a guide for overseas doctors Route 3 - GMC Recognised or Equivalent Qualifications: Some overseas qualifications are recognised by the GMC and accepted for registration purposes. This means to say these qualifications are considered as meeting the same standards as the Royal College qualifications. There are Paediatrics qualifications from several countries around the world that are currently accepted by the GMC.  Find out if your qualification is accepted by the GMC below: IMG Resources - Overseas accepted postgraduate qualifications Tier 2 Visa If you are a doctor applying from outside the EEA region you will almost certainly need to apply for a visa to work in the UK.  Applying as a doctor or nurse has never been easier and there is currently no-restriction on the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) applications that a hospital can make. Furthermore, the list of specialties on the shortage occupation list is due for imminent review and expansion beyond its current list of specialties, potentially widening the scope for easier immigration processes across all specialties in healthcare. Understand Tier 2 visas and Certificates of Sponsorship in depth by taking a look at our article: IMG Resources - 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 dependant visa below: IMG Resources - Tier 2 Dependant visa - can i bring my family with me to the UK? GMC Registration With everything in place, you can apply for full registration with a licence to practice with the GMC. Remember, for full GMC registration you must provide evidence of: Evidence of English language capabilities AND Evidence of sufficient skill and knowledge (PLAB, MRCPCH or equivalent) Understand the registration process in full & by reading our article below: IMG Resources - GMC Registration for overseas doctors Job search We recommend starting the job search as early as possible. Demand for Non-EEA paediatricians in the NHS is increasing - the NHS welcomes you with open arms!  At IMG Connect we specialise in securing jobs for overseas doctors in the UK and can offer you a wider range of jobs than is readily available online. Our network extends to paediatrics services and HR departments across the UK, so no matter what your grade or specialty we can ensure you will be interviewing for roles well in advance of any relocation plans.  In addition, your 1-1 consultant, with a speciality knowledge of paediatrics, will negotiate on your behalf, ensuring you get the most competitive salary. Giving you the peace of mind of agreeing your new contract, perhaps even before your GMC registration is complete.  Take a look at our most recent jobs: Job Search Relocation Obviously, any doctor’s journey isn’t all exams, registrations and language tests… there’s also the small matter of relocation and settling into life in the UK. Once you have secured your role in the UK, we will focus on supporting you and your family with all of your relocation plans. This can include, but is not exclusive to, securing accommodation, travel planning, setting up bank accounts & national insurance numbers – every step of the way we are here to help.  Have a read through our IMG Library and take in all the beautifully organised information on relocation and UK life to immeasurably help your first days, weeks and months in the UK. Take a look here: IMG Resources – Relocation & UK Life IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS paediatrician 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.             

Which routes can overseas internal medicine doctors take to GMC registration & securing jobs in the NHS?  All Medicine doctors looking to secure a job and work in the UK, whether you are from inside or outside of Europe, will need to satisfy certain criteria to fully register with the General Medical Council (GMC). Here we cover all the medical specialties that fall within the broader reach of General & Specialist Medicine to include specialisms such as cardiology, respiratory medicine, dermatology, gastroenterology, haematology, elderly care or geriatric medicine and general & acute medicine. The criteria you must meet depends on where you currently live and practice, either inside the EEA (& associated countries) or outside the EEA. This article is designed to give you a snapshot of the steps you need to take to start your journey to the UK, no matter where in the world you live.  Inside the EEA – click here Outside the EEA – click here “Doctors from countries around the world play a vital and significant role in our NHS and in the delivery of safe patient care. This is not only welcome but is part of the continuous exchange of knowledge in healthcare and should be strongly encouraged. They make an invaluable contribution to the NHS.”  Joint statement from the Royal College of Physicians Inside the EEA Firstly, it is important to note that where we refer to EEA in this article this refers to all countries inside the EU, including Lichtenstein, Iceland & Norway.  If you qualified as a doctor inside the EEA or Switzerland, then the good news is that you don’t need to demonstrate your medical knowledge and skills to work as a doctor in the UK – you have already done this, and thanks to the EU your qualification is deemed equivalent. In addition, you will not need to apply for a visa from the UK Home Office.  As an EEA doctor, the main hurdle that you will face is demonstrating that your English skills are of a high enough standard to practice safely as a doctor in the UK & NHS.  English Language Testing Any international doctor, regardless of specialty, experience or country of origin, must demonstrate they have sufficient competence of the English language. You can do this by passing either of the following: IELTS – International English Language Testing System OET – Occupational English Test Take a look at our helpful articles below for detailed information on both tests:  IELTS – a guide for overseas doctors OET – a guide for overseas doctors GMC Registration Having passed your English Language Test, you can now apply for full registration with a licence to practice with the GMC. For full GMC registration you must provide evidence of: Evidence of English language capabilities (IELTS or OET) AND Evidence of sufficient skill and knowledge (your equivalent qualifications) Understand the registration process in full & by reading our article: IMG Library - GMC Registration for overseas doctors Job search We recommend starting the job search as early as possible. Demand for European doctors in the NHS is ever-increasing - the NHS welcomes you with open arms! At IMG Connect we specialise in securing jobs for European doctors in the UK and can offer you a wider range of jobs than are readily available online.  Our network extends to psychiatry services and HR departments across the UK, so no matter what your grade or specialty we can ensure you will be interviewing for roles well in advance of any relocation plans.  In addition, your dedicated consultant, with a specialty knowledge of General Medicine, will negotiate on your behalf ensuring you get the most competitive salary.  Our aim is to have a job offer on the table before your GMC registration is complete, giving you the peace of mind of having an agreed contract in place - leaving you to carefully plan your relocation to the UK. Take a look at our most recent jobs: Job Search  Relocation Obviously, any doctor’s journey isn’t all exams, registrations and language tests… there’s also the small matter of relocation and settling into life in the UK. Once you have secured your role in the UK, we focus on supporting you and your family with all your relocation plans. This can include, but is not exclusive to, securing accommodation, travel planning, setting up bank accounts & national insurance numbers – every step of the way we are here to help. Have a read through our IMG Library and take in all the beautifully organised information on relocation and UK life to immeasurably help your first days, weeks and months in the UK. IMG Library – Relocation & UK Life Outside of the EEA If you qualified as a doctor outside the EEA, then you will have to demonstrate that both your medical knowledge & skills and English Language capabilities meet the level required to practice safely in the UK. In addition, you will need to apply for a visa from the UK Home Office.  Here we summarise the requirements for General Medicine doctors, looking at the following: English Language Testing Evidence of Knowledge & Skills - PLAB, MRCP or equivalents Tier 2 Visas  Full GMC Registration English Language Testing Any international doctor, regardless of specialty, experience or country of origin, must demonstrate they have sufficient competence of the English language. You can do this by passing either of the following: IELTS – International English Language Testing System OET – Occupational English Test Take a look at our helpful articles below for detailed information on both tests:  IELTS – a guide for overseas doctors OET – a guide for overseas doctors Evidence of Knowledge & Skills in Medicine Overseas doctors must prove to the GMC they have sufficient knowledge & skills to practice safely in the UK. This can be done through three main routes: PLAB Royal College qualification of MRCP GMC - recognised or equivalent qualifications Route 1 - PLAB: The PLAB exam 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 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.  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, international doctors 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: PLAB – a guide for overseas doctors PLAB 1 – a closer look PLAB 2 – a closer look Route 2 - Royal College Qualification: Attaining a Royal College qualification is a preferred path for doctors who have already chosen their field of specialism i.e. medicine. For senior medicine doctors taking this route, they will gain access to more senior, well-paid jobs in the specialism of their choice.  The Royal College of Physicians is the Professional Body that regulates the specialism of medicine in the UK, and Membership of the Royal College of Physicians (MRCP) is the full qualification attainable by examination. For overseas doctors, attaining MRCP will satisfy the knowledge & skill criteria for GMC registration and facilitate application for more senior roles in UK medicine. Take a look at our complete guide on Membership of the Royal College of Physicians to understand more: MRCP – a guide for overseas doctors GMC - recognised or equivalent qualifications: Some overseas qualifications are recognised by the GMC and accepted for registration purposes. This means to say these qualifications are considered as meeting the same standards as the Royal College qualifications. There are qualifications from several countries around the world that are currently accepted by the GMC.  Find out if your qualification is accepted by the GMC: Overseas accepted postgraduate qualifications Tier 2 Visa If you are a doctor applying from outside the EEA region you will almost certainly need to apply for a visa to work in the UK.  Applying as a doctor or nurse has never been easier and there is currently no-restriction on the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) applications that a hospital can make. Furthermore, the list of specialties on the shortage occupation list is due for imminent review and expansion beyond its current list of specialties, potentially widening the scope for easier immigration processes across all specialties in healthcare. 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 dependant visa: Tier 2 Dependant visa - can i bring my family with me to the UK? GMC Registration With everything in place, you can apply for full registration with a licence to practice with the GMC. Remember, for full GMC registration you must provide evidence of: Evidence of English language capabilities AND Evidence of sufficient skill and knowledge (PLAB, MRCP or equivalent) Understand the registration process in full & by reading our article: GMC Registration for overseas doctors Job search We recommend starting the job search as early as possible. Demand for Non-EEA doctors in the NHS is increasing - the NHS welcomes you with open arms!  At IMG Connect we specialise in securing jobs for overseas doctors in the UK and can offer you a wider range of jobs than is readily available online.  Our network extends to general medicine services and HR departments across the UK, so no matter what your grade or specialty we can ensure you will be interviewing for roles well in advance of any relocation plans.  In addition, your 1-1 consultant, with a speciality knowledge of medicine, will negotiate on your behalf, ensuring you get the most competitive salary.  Giving you the peace of mind of agreeing your new contract, perhaps even before your GMC registration is complete. Take a look at our most recent jobs: Job Search Relocation Obviously, any doctor’s journey isn’t all exams, registrations and language tests… there’s also the small matter of relocation and settling into life in the UK. Once you have secured your role in the UK, we will focus on supporting you and your family with all of your relocation plans. This can include, but is not exclusive to, securing accommodation, travel planning, setting up bank accounts & national insurance numbers – every step of the way we are here to help.  Have a read through our IMG Library and take in all the beautifully organised information on relocation and UK life to immeasurably help your first days, weeks and months in the UK. Take a look here: IMG Library – Relocation & UK Life IMG Jobs  Specialist Medicine: Click here to find live NHS specialist medicine job opportunities in the UK General & Acute Medicine: Click here to find live NHS general & acute medicine job opportunities in the UK IMG Resources In our IMG Resources library you can 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 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:             

The Diploma in Child Health (DCH) recognises competence in the care of children in specialties allied to paediatrics. In this blog we will provide an overview of the DCH and consider the following topics: What is the DCH? Who is it for? Structure and content of DCH Am I eligible? Where can I take the exam & how much will it cost me? How do I apply? How do I prepare and what resources are available? Passed? What's next? Skip ahead to the relevant section if you know what you're looking for. What is the DCH?  The DCH is reflective of current practice in the UK and covers a syllabus mapped by a wide range of medical professions, including paediatrics and GPs. The DCH (Diploma in Child Health) comprises two exams. You must achieve a pass mark in both in order to be awarded DCH.  The exams are as follows:  Foundation of Practice (FOP) theory exam - this is shared with the MRCPCH (membership exam) DCH Clinical exam Who is it for?  The Diploma is aimed at those practitioners who want to consolidate their knowledge and skills in paediatrics and gain a qualification at the same time. According to the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH), the DCH is designed to give ‘recognition of competence in the care of children to general practitioner vocational trainees, staff grade doctors and senior house officers in paediatrics, and trainees in specialties allied to paediatrics’. It not only helps to consolidate knowledge gained during paediatric training, but it also helps to focus and develop skills needed for the examination of children within primary and secondary care. Candidates use the DCH as an opportunity for up-skilling, to drive learning and to gain an internationally recognised post graduate medical diploma. The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health recommend that all candidates complete a short period of training in paediatrics before attempting the DCH Clinical examination. The aim of the examination is to assess whether candidates have reached the standard in clinical skills expected of a newly appointed General Practitioner who has completed a short period of training in paediatrics. What does the syllabus cover?  It is important to note that the DCH has an independent syllabus from the MRCPCH. However, the theoretical elements of the Foundation of Practice theory exam are shared across both. Before embarking on the diploma, we recommend IMGs take a detailed look at the DCH syllabus which outlines the competencies required in both knowledge and skills. It provides a summary list of topics which are covered, and specifies the depth of knowledge and skills required, as well as guidance for trainees on what they must be taught and learn. Am I eligible to take DCH? The Royal College for Paediatrics and Child Health recommend that overseas candidates have at least six months' paediatrics experience. To be eligible, overseas candidates will simply need to hold a recognised medical qualification and be registered with the GMC.  You do not require a pass in English Language Tests to take the tests, however we have discussed this with several IMGs, and it is important to note that a high standard of English will be required in order to pass. Don’t forget that you will require a sufficient pass in an English Language Test in order to complete registration with the GMC.  Structure and content of DCH: The Diploma consists of two exams, one theory (FOP) and one clinical exam. You can take the exams in any order, or during the same exam period.  The Foundation of Practice theory exam (FOP) is computer-based and takes place three times a year in the UK and overseas. See our MRCPCH overview for more information on where you can sit the FOP theory exam, dates, times and costs. How much does the DCH clinical exam cost? Fees vary depending on where you sit the exam. See below fees and centres for 2023.  UK & Ireland Exam Exam fee Foundation of Practice (FOP) - single paper £350 Theory and Science (TAS) - single paper £350 FOP and TAS - both papers £595 Applied Knowledge in Practice (AKP) £595   Overseas Centres Jordan, Kuwait, Malta, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Trinidad currently only provide RCPCH theory exams. Egypt, India, Malaysia, Nepal, KSA, UAE, Oman, Myanmar, Sudan and Singapore provide both theory and clinical exam test centres. Overseas Exam Exam fee Foundation of Practice (FOP) - single paper £435 Theory and Science (TAS) - single paper £435 FOP and TAS - both papers £725 Applied Knowledge in Practice (AKP) £835   Hong Kong Candidates in Hong Kong must submit payment to the Hong Kong College exam organiser in HKD via a bank draft, which you can learn more about here. Hong Kong Exam Exam fee Foundation of Practice (FOP) - single paper 4700 HKD Theory and Science (TAS) - single paper 4700 HKD FOP and TAS - both papers 7600 HKD Applied Knowledge in Practice (AKP) 8800 HKD How do I apply for the exams?  To apply for the DCH (Diploma in Child Health), you first need to register online for exams. You just need to do this once. You need an RCPCH online account (with an RCPCH number). Then you can complete a short registration form – you will require evidence of your primary medical qualification. How do I register for exams?  You can register for exams at any time throughout the year. After your registration is accepted, you can apply for an exam but only during relevant open application periods. It takes at least 10 working days to process registration. During exam application periods we are not able to process registrations. Please register three to four weeks before exam application period opens to help ensure you do not miss your preferred exam diet. The best dates to register for exams are usually January, May and September. How do I book an exam?  Log in to your RCPCH account Go to My Account  From your dashboard, go to the Exams panel, and from your exam dashboard, follow links to apply What do I need to know about the exam day? Bring your ID: You will need to bring one of the following forms of ID: passport with photograph and signature - this must be current or no more than six months expired valid driving license with photograph and signature national identity card with photograph and signature *Only original documents will be accepted. For more information take a look at the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health website How do I prepare?  With lots of materials online we have discussed with IMGs the best place to start looking for resources and materials relating to the exams. Most IMGs recommended starting with the Royal College, who have created useful resources to help you to prepare for the exams.  A good start is to take a look at Clinical Cases in Paediatrics: DCH Clinical Textbook. It will cost your £35 but is a logical foundation for a start to any revision. Useful online revision courses include those run by PASTEST and the Institute of Child Health. As ever at IMG Connect, we believe in preparation. In order to succeed in the clinical exam, IMGs have told us that it is vital that you practise your clinical examinations as frequently as possible, preferably under the supervision of a senior colleague. This will give you confidence in approaching and examining children with examiners present. Passed? What next? If you pass both DCH Clinical and Foundation of Practice (FOP) exams, you will receive a Diploma certificate. This certifies you are a holder of the Diploma in Child Health (RCPCH). IMG Jobs  Search and find live NHS doctor jobs in the UK IMG Resources In our IMG Resources library you can 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 hoping to register with the GMC & find a job in the NHS will have to pass an English language test.  This will demonstrate that they have the right level of English to practice safely in the NHS, and in this article we will look at how to prepare for both IELTS and OET examinations. To help you decide the best way to prepare, we have included the following topics:  The first thing to say – it isn’t easy! What should I expect? Can I just take the exam? How can I prepare? Can I do all of this at home? Where can I find training? Knowing your level What resources are available online to help with my preparation? Steps to success in the English Language Tests The first thing to say – it isn’t easy!  Preparing for any English Language Test, whether you have chosen IELTS or OET, requires you to learn a huge amount of vocabulary, write specific reports or essays, use a high level of grammar and structure, learn how to engage with a range of scenarios and acquire a set of key exam techniques.  What should I expect? Preparing for and sitting the exams is difficult, not least because of the overload of information that is out there, for example which sources do you trust? What is the best way to find information?  Passing the exams can take months, and in some cases years of hard work. And don’t forget that each exam costs money, with many also choosing private tuition – the money and time can soon add up.  Can I just take the exam?  The exams costs money each time and are very specific in format, with the answers requiring certain structures and techniques. A lot of IMGs don’t get the required marks at first attempt and as such, we don’t advise taking the exam without sound preparation.  Remember… failing to prepare, is preparing to fail. In general, there are a few things that most IMGs tell us that they have improved on through preparing well:  Overall general level of English – this takes time IMGs who passed have told us that this takes the longest, but it is time well spent… Overall improvements in general English skills, including broadening your vocabulary, grammar and punctuation, will help you to achieve the best score possible. Try to make a little progress every day. Refining your test skills – this takes practice  Each sub-test (reading, writing, speaking and listening) has a different style of question and answer, so each of them has a specific skill that you need to learn.  Knowing how the tests are marked – this takes guidance  To gain those valuable extra scores, get to know what the examiner wants and give it to them!  Remember, this skill alone won’t get you a pass, but combined with the above it will be a huge help to getting the score you want.   How can I prepare? Can I do all of this at home?  IMGs have shared many ways to practice for a pass and this doesn’t mean just repeating exam questions.  Here are a few of our favourite examples that you can do every day, for free!   Find a colleague at work, friend or family member, who you enjoy speaking English with and speak to them every day!  Read a wider range of topics online, both medical and general.  Find a regular news source you enjoy reading in English.  Tune into UK radio stations, available online, or, on your mobile phone. Put the radio on before and after work, rather than your usual local station.  Listen to Podcasts in English, there are thousands of topics to choose from.  Watch YouTube channels about medicine and life in the UK.  Watch movies and TV shows in English, both with and without subtitles.  Start writing, it is key that you practice, but this can sometimes be the hardest to practice in natural contexts. IMGs have suggested writing a blog or writing letters and emails (in English) to friends and family Watch Ted Talks, that both do and don’t interest you! Take practice tests at home, mark your answers and check how you improve.  Basically, find your passion and go for it!  Where can I find training?  There are excellent training sessions available, including face-face and online courses to help you to prepare. They can help you to build the skills you need to succeed in your exam.  It is always good to tailor your learning to your own needs, so whether you are new to the tests, or looking for support to help you to study or retake the exams, find a training programme that suits you.  Whilst not necessary, taking up an exam preparation course led by an experienced teacher or tutor who is knowledgeable on the test and the skills – is highly recommended Knowing your level Knowing your level is an essential part of the preparation for both IELTS and OET. Whether you decide to sign up for a course, or tutor, getting assessed and knowing your current level will help you identify your areas of weakness to focus on.  We would recommend getting your speaking and writing assessed by a qualified teacher. They can tell you what level you are at and areas for improvement.  Identify weaknesses, focus on these and get reassessed to check if you have improved.  You can find courses or individual teachers online who have been trained directly by the examining body, which can give you the boost you need. But, speak to colleagues and see if they can recommend a trusted course or teacher. What resources are available online to help with my preparation?  The following sites will give you all the general information you need for your IELTS or OET exam preparation: IELTS Official British Council IELTS IDP IELTS OET You can find video tutorials and support on YouTube, including official channels from both IELTS and OET: YouTube - IELTS YouTube - OET You can find online practice papers at the following trusted sites:  British Council – free sample tests IELTS Essentials – free sample tests IDP – free sample test OET – free sample tests Consider working with an accredited tutor As an International Brand dedicated to helping international doctors to register with the GMC and find work in the NHS - we have lots of partnerships in place with trusted companies in many areas. One of these key areas is English Language Testing and IMG Connect works closely with a company called Specialist Language Courses. You can take a look at their website here. Specialist Language courses work very professionally and are the UK's leading provider of online courses and tutoring. They are also one of the few accredited providers of OET and have provided consultation and guidance to the GMC on english language testing.  Success rates are 70% + for those who sign for their tutoring and you can receive a discount if introduced by IMG Connect. Register with IMG Connect to request your discount on English Language Courses or get in touch with one of our IMG Consultants to discuss So, broken down, here are our steps to success in the English Language Tests: Understand the test structure and format Set yourself achievable learning goals Get to know the marking criteria  Understand the various question types Polish your exam skills Improve your vocabulary Take practice tests Practice every day, and we mean every day!  Not essential depending on your level of English, but you can also find a tutor or online course.  Get assessed, identify weaknesses, work on these, get reassessed. 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 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:              

Overseas doctors must verify their medical qualifications before making a GMC application. In order to work in the NHS you need full registration with the GMC. This process requires independent verification of your primary medical degrees and any other qualifications or licensures you are using to join the register. Often this will be a Royal College Qualifcation, or another recognised postgraduate qualification, but can also include an accepted licensing exam such as USMLE, MCCQE or AMCCE. The process of verification is is done by the Educational Commission For Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) and applies if you: Qualified at a medical school outside of the UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland; OR are an international medical graduate with a European medical qualification (not including UK qualifications) AND do not already hold provisional registration. Please note, only those with primary medical qualifications awarded outside of the UK and EU, and those who are not EU nationals but hold a primary medical qualification from the EU (but not the UK), need to use an Electric Portfolio of International Credentials (EPIC). Which qualifications will I need to verify? When registering with the GMC there will likely be two certificates you will need to verify for your GMC registration. Depending on what route you take to registration, you will need to verify both of the following: Postgraduate route: Medical Degree (PMQ) and Accepted Postgraduate Qualification Relevant European Qualification (REQ) route: Medical Degree (PMQ) Specialist European Qualification route: Medical Degree (PMQ) and Specialist European Qualification MTI or Royal College Sponsorship route: Medical Degree (PMQ) PLAB route: Medical Degree (PMQ) Is my Medical Degree (PMQ) accepted by the GMC? You must have completed an acceptable medical degree to register with the GMC. Check if you’re qualification is accepted via the GMC website here. Your medical degree is commonly known as your primary medical qualification (PMQ) and it will need to be independently verified by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) via their online portal, EPIC. Please note, if you hold refugee status in the UK and are applying to the GMC for registration with a license to practice medicine in the UK, you may be able to get help with your EPIC fees. Contact the GMC before using EPIC. Setting up an on-line account: Once you have established the correct documents to be verified, set up an on-line account (EPIC Account) via ECFMG EPIC The first step to start using EPIC is to complete a request to establish an account. The request requires you to submit some basic personal information, details about your medical education, and, if applicable, details about your postgraduate medical education. EPIC will then send you an e-mail to confirm receipt of your request to establish an EPIC Account. Once your account request has been processed, they will send you an e-mail containing your EPIC ID and instructions on how to complete the final step in the account establishment process, completion of the EPIC Identification Form (EIF) to confirm your identity.  The GMC's instructions for EPIC verification are here however this we have outlined the steps above, so things shoud be fairly clear already. Before you start: Before your start the verification process, there are a couple of important steps to consider:  Create a GMC online account if you haven't already and check whether the GMC accepts your primary medical qualification and/or postgraduate qualification.  If your medical school is included on the list below then you should contact the GMC before starting the verification process. on the GMC’s list of qualifications that are not acceptable  on the GMC’s list of qualifications that may be acceptable not in the list of medical schools on GMC Online General advice from IMG Connect Start early: At IMG Connect we strongly advise that you complete this part of the process as soon as possible. There are several factors that contribute to the length of the verification process, ncluding the time it takes for the medical school to verify your qualification(s). It does not expire, so there is no reason to delay! Also consider the GMC will close your application after 90 days if you cannot submit it, so by starting EPIC too late you may cause your GMC application to be closed.  Prepare and save yourself some time: As always, at IMG Connect we advise it is best to gather your documents prior to starting any application. If you do, it should only take about 15 minutes to complete.  Before you begin, make sure you have the following available: a full-colour photograph (passport style) a scanned, full-colour copy of the photograph page of your current, unexpired passport information about your medical education, including your medical school identification number (if applicable) and attendance and degree issue dates your medical licensure information (if applicable), including any identification numbers your ECFMG/USMLE Identification Number (if you have one) your ECFMG International Credentials Services (EICS) Identification Number (if you have one) Make sure you select the General Medical Council as you upload each qualification. By doing so, the GMC will automatically receive an update when your qualification has been verified. If you don’t do this, it could cause a delay. How much does EPIC verification cost?  The fees are charged in USD and you’ll need to pay ECFMG directly. Full payment is due at the time you submit your request to establish an EPIC Account. Setting up an account currently costs $125 and as of recently, the fee to verify a credential through EPIC increased to US$90 per credential. For more information on fees and payment, see the fees section of the EPIC website. I've got my PMQ verified, what next? Submit your application for registration to the GMC and provide your EPIC ID to the GMC.  You won’t be able to submit your application to the GMC until you have confirmation that your PMQ has been sent for verification. ECFMG will send you confirmation via e-mail. You can also check the status by logging in to your EPIC Account. If you prefer, you can wait until after the qualification has been verified to submit your application, as it can take some time for the verification to be completed. Once verification of a qualification has been received from the issuing institution and ECFMG has confirmed that the qualification is authentic, ECFMG will confirm this with the GMC. ECFMG will also notify you by e-mail that your qualification has been verified.

Here we take a look at an essential document for any Pakistani doctor looking to work outside of the country – the Pakistani Protector Stamp. In this article we will look at what exactly the protector stamp is and consider the following topics: What is the Pakistani Protector Stamp? Do I need the Protector Stamp? Life Insurance How do I get my passport stamped? Documents you will need The process I have my protector stamp. What happens next? What is a Pakistani Protector Stamp?  The protector stamp is an actual passport stamp given to any Pakistani travelling abroad on a work visa. It is an official Pakistani government requirement and without the protector stamp you will not be allowed to travel.  In addition to allowing you to work abroad, it will also cover you for life insurance, with the person you nominate receiving one million Pakistani rupees in such an event.  Do I need the Protector Stamp? Every intending emigrant is legally bound to get their foreign service agreement protected from the concerned Protectorate of Emigrants (PE) office in Pakistan. It is important to remember that the protector stamp is needed alongside your offer of employment and your visa. Visits to the UK for leisure or PLAB 2 do not require the Pakistani Protector Stamp. As well as granting you access to work overseas, the Pakistani Protector Stamp will also cover you for life insurance to a figure of PKR 1,000,000 Life Insurance: Whilst life insurance is an obvious perk, you do have to pay for it. You will be required to deposit PKR 2,500 to cover life risk for a sum of PKR 1,000,000. This insurance is valid for five years. There are also a number of other benefits that come once your life insurance and protector stamp are in place, you can read through them on the Pakistani Government website here. How do I get my passport stamped? You will need to attend an appointment at your local Protectorate Office in order to receive the stamp.  The process of getting your Pakistani Protector Stamp can be a little arduous. Specific documents are required and be prepared to spend up to one whole day completing the process. Documents you will need: Your Visa work permit Contract or a conditional offer of employment from the UK employer Pakistani passport Pakistani CNIC (Computerised National Identity Card) Next of kin information (including CNIC for recipient of insurance compensation) Medical report Bank challan receipts Life insurance  Undertaking form One passport photo Please note, until very recently NICOP was an essential document for this process as well. There has been a little confusion over this recently so if you have a card already, it does not hurt to bring this along with you. It is best to make any copies of your documents in prior to attending your local Protectorate Office, it will help you avoid any delays once you are there and make for a smoother process. The Process  Attend your local Protectorate Office early in the morning with the original copies of your documents. You can find your local office here. The main reception will direct you to a window to show the checking officer your CNIC, passport and the copy of your UK visa.  As soon as your visa copy is signed, you will need to take this and the rest of your documents to the next window to submit the rest of your documents.  Once these are ready you can expect to wait a few hours until your passport is stamped. I have my Protector Stamp. What happens next? You need to have your passport stamped once you have a job offer and work visa, so this should be one of the last steps before relocating.  Once your passport is stamped you will be cleared to work outside of Pakistan and begin your journey in the UK! 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 salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.

Here we take a quick look at the CESR route for overseas experienced specialty doctors & consultants hoping to find a senior doctor job in the NHS and qualify for the Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration (CESR). Many IMGs have recently asked if they would be eligible for the CESR route to Specialist registration. International Medical Graduates (IMGs) from any country in the world can apply for CESR, provided certain eligibility criteria are met. To help answer this question we have put together a short article to explain further, including the following topics:  What is CESR? How does CESR work? Am I eligible? I am eligible, what next? Applications for CESR requires a lot of preparation and can seem quite daunting. This is the first in a series of articles aimed at helping doctors planning to engage in this process. What is CESR?  The Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration (CESR) is the process by which doctors who have not trained in an approved programme can demonstrate their knowledge, skills and experience are equivalent to that of the relevant CCT curriculum to join the GP or specialist registers.  How does CESR work?  The CESR is awarded by the GMC and applications are made directly to them. The Royal College then assesses the evidence an applicant has submitted to the GMC.  The assessment is to assure the GMC that the applicant has gained the equivalent level of competence as a trainee (i.e. ST6) making application for CCT via the ARCP process (Annual Review of Competency Progression). This means that the CESR applicant must demonstrate competence against all Intended Learning Outcomes in the curriculum of the specialty of their choice via the written evidence submitted. Are you eligible?  There are different ways to apply for registration with a licence to practise in the UK. It depends on your nationality, qualification 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.  The CESR certificate is awarded only on the written evidence provided by the applicant. It is not granted on the basis of references or experience.  In most circumstances we can say that evidence must:  come from higher training equivalent  be less than 5years old demonstrate higher level experience  map to the curriculum be represented clearly be current be primary evidence You can check the approved Royal College curricula for all 65 specialities and sub specialties here.  I am eligible, what happens next?  As an IMG, it is highly likely that you haven’t complete a UK based approved training programme but could be eligible for Specialist Registration via the CESR route. Take a look at our in-depth CESR overview for more information on how to apply and what to expect.   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 salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.             

In this article we focus on the process of obtaining a Criminal Records Certificate for Tier 2 visa, a crucial document to arrange for a successful visa application. We'll consider the following: What is a Criminal Records Certificate? How do I know if I need one? How do I apply for a Criminal Records Certificate? What if I can’t attain one from a particular country?  I received my Criminal Records Certificate – what next? What is a Criminal Records Certificate? An essential part to any Tier 2 visa application – the Criminal Records Certificate (CRC) can also be known as a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC). A Criminal Records Certificate is a document confirming an individuals’ criminal record. It will include any past offences and information relating to recent arrests or further action such as prosecution. The certificate will of course confirm a clean record. Applying for a CRC can take some time, so we advise you to apply as soon as possible to avoid delays to your visa application and in turn starting your first NHS post. How do I know if I need one? Anyone applying to work in the health and social care sectors will need one. As of April 2017, any Tier 2 visa applicants and any adult dependents are required to provide a criminal record certificate from each country they have lived in consecutively for 12 months or more in the last 10 years. As a result, you may need to apply for multiple CRCs depending on your travel movements over the last 10 years. How do I apply for a Criminal Records Certificate? It is usually issued by the police or by an appropriate law enforcement agency, please note it can be named slightly differently in different countries (see some examples in list below). If you cannot find the information you need, we would advise you to get in touch with the countries local police station. Alternatively, your IMG Connect consultant will be on hand to help so do not hesitate to get in touch. What if I can’t get a Criminal Records Certificate from a particular country?  The home office does understand that some countries do not have police systems currently able to provide a criminal records certificate. In such cases you will need to provide a satisfactory explanation about why you have not provided one, if not provided your visa application will be refused. I received my Criminal Records Certificate – what next? Assuming your CRC has come back with no offense present, you will need to upload these certificates as part of your online visa application for the UK Home Office. The certificate should be dated no earlier than 6 months prior to the date that you are applying.  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 salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.             

In order to apply for GMC Registration and/or take the PLAB tests, IMGs must hold a primary medical qualification acceptable to the GMC for the purpose of registration with a licence to practise. If your primary medical qualification is from outside of the UK or EEA, the GMC will need to check that it is acceptable.  How can I check my overseas qualification is recognised by the GMC?  Your Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) must be awarded by an institution listed in the World Directory of Medical School.  There are some qualifications that the GMC already do not accept. These are listed on their website. You should check whether your qualification meets the relevant criteria before you start an application.  As part of the GMC application, overseas doctors from outside of the EEA will need to send a copy of their primary medical qualification to the GMC.  If your primary medical qualification meets the GMC criteria, you will need to have it independently verified by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) before registration with a license to practice can be complete. How do I verify my Primary Medical Qualification?  Verification is completed online and is a simple process. You will set up an online EPIC account (Electronic Portfolio of International Credentials), confirm your identity and upload your qualification for verification. This is then assessed by ECFMG who will communicate directly with your awarding body to confirm authenticity.  What next? Once assessed the ECFMG will confirm the outcome with the GMC. You will receive and EPIC ID, which will be required when completing the GMC application.  At IMG we recommend that you check your primary medical qualification and start the verification process as early as possible, so that you will have your verified qualification before applying.  Once you have checked that you have a suitable overseas qualification, and your overseas primary medical qualification has been independently verified, you can complete the GMC registration online.  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 salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.             

It is great to hear first-hand from overseas doctors the main reasons why they have enjoyed their move and quickly settled into life in the UK. We enjoyed them so much that we have put together some of the best reasons to move to the UK (although there are hundreds!) 8. Culture The UK is bursting with art and culture! Cultural diversity is the backbone of British life with workplaces and communities embracing diversity. The UK also has some of the greatest museums, art galleries, music venues, sporting events and theatres that the world has to offer. British culture has its roots in its people who live across its four countries, England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Each one has its own traditions and customs to explore and get involved in, everyone is welcome to join the fun! Culture vultures certainly won’t be disappointed!  7. Multicultural The UK is truly multicultural, welcoming people from all over the world and embracing diversity. There are over 300 languages spoken in London alone, it can be said that the capital city of London is the most culturally diverse city in the world. It isn’t just London, everywhere you turn the country celebrates and embraces its multiculturalism. From Glasgow to Leeds and Birmingham to Manchester, the UK is diverse and distinct in equal measure.  6. Healthcare Once a resident, you have access to the National Health Service (NHS) – free at the point of access for all. Britain is a world leader when it comes to healthcare, medicine and medical research. It is also home to some of the best hospitals in the world. The NHS is something that all Brits are proud of, and very grateful for, especially at times of emergency. The UK also attracts academics, researchers and medical practitioners from across the globe, making it a world class place to work. 5. Education  The UK has some of the best schools and universities in the world. Renowned universities are on offer right across the country and you would be hard pressed to find a better place to study than the UK. The UK has a reputation for word class schools, research and teaching. What better place to learn!  4. Natural world of beauty Great Britain has scenery for everyone to fall in love with. From rolling hills, sparkling lakes and lochs to snow-capped mountains, its natural beauty is astounding. Join the community of outdoors enthusiasts and go for a hike over mountains, stroll through fields and hedgerows, explore the coastline of beaches, canoe in the lakes, wild swim in the ponds and rivers, or cycle across the countryside. There truly is something for everyone to explore. 3. Finding a job Industry and services stretch across the whole country, and the UK has a huge range of jobs to offer. With demand for skilled workers increasing every year, the chances of finding employment are greatly increased. It is also a great place to work! As an IMG, you are in demand! 2. Location The UK is perfectly positioned for short trips if you want to explore Europe. With commercial airports across the whole country, ferry ports and the Eurostar train leaving from London, travelling out of the UK is easy. It can be cheap too!  1. The people  English, Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish, the people of the UK are renowned globally for their hospitality. A warm welcome awaits, and no doubt a dose of the Brits keen sense of sarcasm. But don’t fret, sarcasm is usually said with a smile and kind heart ;-) We look forward to welcoming you to the UK as you embark on your new career in 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 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:              

NHS Interviews over online video recording platforms, such as Skype, are becoming commonplace nowadays, particularly for overseas doctors seeking a job in the UK.  Skype interviews have fast become the norm amongst senior staff in the NHS, with most NHS Trusts now familiar with the format. Successful IMGs have also told us that they felt comfortable during the interview, helping them to secure their NHS job.  Getting invited to an interview means you’ve passed the first hurdle – your application must have made a good impression.  IMG Connect will support the NHS Trust in organising your skype interview, and we will email you interview invites and help you set up your computer on the day. Once your CV has been selected for interview, if you are based outside of the UK, then it is highly probable that the Trust will seek to interview you using Skype.  If you haven’t already done so, setting up a Skype account is easy:  Download Skype to your computer.  Set up a free account  Log in to your account  You are ready to go!  On the day To help you on the day of your interview we have included the follow steps to set up:  Tips for setting up on the day:  1. Add the hospital Skype ID 24 hrs prior to your interview. Your IMG Consultant will provide you with this in advance. 2. Send a message to the hospital Skype ID, stating your name and the post you are interviewing for.  This helps check that the ID is correct and is active for the start of your interview.  3. Run a test call with an IMG Connect consultant. Just to be sure everything is working; we will run a dummy call with you well in advance of your interview. If there are any issues, we can address them together.  4. Be ready 30 mins prior to the call.  It is best to be prepared, with your CV, notes and a glass of water at the ready.  Don’t forget to relax.  To help you make a good impression we have included the following tips:  Tips to make a good impression: first impressions to create a good impression 1. Be on time. Despite the fact that your interview will be held over Skype, it is vital that you set up in plenty time and allow time for things to go wrong. If you do get delayed, make sure you notify your IMG Consultant and the contact within the organisation as soon as possible. 2. Dress appropriately.  You may be on screen, but that includes trousers too! Dress as you would for any interview, it will also help you to feel confident.  3. Don’t forget to smile!  When you answer the call, don’t forget to smile. Greet the panel as you would for any interview (minus the shaking of hands of course). From start to finish, relax, be yourself and smile. The panel want to know that you cope under pressure, and can be a good member of their team, ultimately improving patient care. Your personality is key to this success!  4. Make eye contact and engage with all members of the interview panel. Just like an ordinary interview, try to engage with all members of the panel. You will know in advance who they are, so greet them and address them directly throughout your interview. Oh, and don’t forget to use address the panel using their correct titles!  5. Be aware of your body language. You want to convey that you're enthusiastic, positive and energetic, yet focused… don’t fidget!  6. Be positive at all times. It can be hard, especially when you have faced some challenging questions, but keep calm, stay positive and remember to relax!  In summary: Regardless of how confident or anxious you are feeling about interviews, talking things through with a trusted partner can help alleviate any concerns or make you consider a couple of areas you've not given much thought. At IMG Connect we work with IMG’s and healthcare professionals from all over the world and our team of dedicated consultants can help you with any questions you may have in order to prepare for your interview. We will do everything we can to help you succeed so get in touch! 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 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:              

Your NHS interview is your chance to make a good impression to a potential employer, sell yourself and secure your dream job in the NHS. Here we take a look at how to prepare for your NHS Skype interview.  We can’t stress enough how important preparation is to making sure that you have a successful interview. So, we have collected the best tips from our community of IMGs to help you to stand out during your interview and ensure that you always get your point across. In this article we cover the following topics:  Interview preparation  Setting up on the day  During the Skype interview Interview preparation tips:  1. Know who will be interviewing you.  As an overseas doctor it is of course tricky to visit the hospital before interview, so getting to know your interview panel prior to interview is important and will make you stand out - try connecting on LinkedIn or look at their profile. Panels will be made up of a range of senior staff, some will have developed their career within their specialisms, take a look at the Trust website to gather more information. 2. Be up to date.  Keep up to date with the Trust’s vision and strategy, try to convey how you will fit in with this – consider how you can contribute to help them achieve their vision. For example, if you know they are developing a new department you can talk about your interest in this area and what you could offer. 3. Reflect on the hospital values.  Your interview should demonstrate that your personal values and behaviours align with the NHS values. In a nutshell these are your motivation and commitment to the NHS and the role, your ability to work in multi-professional teams, the central importance of the patient's experience. 4. Be reflective.  Responses to questions can show that you have reflected on your experience, that you have learned from them, and that you have gained expertise you can bring to the role, benefiting the service and wider Trust.   5. Prepare concise answers.  When preparing answers for an interview, break these down into key points. It is important that your answers have an impact, so deliver them in 3 or 4 clear sentences. Remember, the interview panel are looking for you to be a clear communicator for the benefit of future patients and colleagues. 6. Practice your answers, but don’t sound robotic.  We suggest that you rehearse your interview with a colleague, who can ask you follow-up questions.  This is a valuable way to gain feedback and to find out how you perform under pressure. 7. Prepare for direct questions.  Whilst most questions will be broad, be prepared for direct questions, such as “what specifically qualifies you for this position?” or “why do you want this job?”. Take a second to compose your answer and avoid a jumbled response.  8. Be structured.  Make your point, provide evidence and explain.  Have a strong structure to your answers, such as the above. Make 2 or 3 key points at most and give personal or clinical examples, with explanations.  9. Prepare for behavioural skills questions.  Be prepared for behavioural skills questions, such as “describe a situation where you disagreed with a colleague and how you reacted?” or “describe a difficult problem you have faced at work, how did you contribute to the solution?”. In your answers, set the context, describe what was required, what you actually did, and how well the situation played out. 10. Use active wording.  When referring to skills, action words are specific, clarify your contributions, and bring a confident tone to your answers (i.e. championed, supervised, expanded, increased, improved, collaborated, gained, achieved, confident, responsible for…) When you speak with the active voice, it adds impact. You can even combine your selection of action verbs with quantifiable results. This shows both what you did and the impact it had. For example, “Expanded use of patient feedback, resulting in 20% increase in patient satisfaction.” 11. Prepare to respond to all aspects of your CV. Remember, an interview will not be solely based on clinical experience. Panel members will be interested in different parts of your CV, such as your management experience, working with others, leadership or ability to improve the quality of services.  12. Prepare questions to ask the panel.  You can treat the interview like a conversation. Prepare detailed questions to ask at the end of your interview, you will always be given this chance. Don’t be afraid to ask questions throughout the whole interview, it can have a positive impact!  Tips for setting up your Skype interview on the day:  Now that you have prepared your questions well in advance, don’t let all of your preparation go out of the window by rushing on the day. If you are flustered, you won’t be composed. We strongly advise making sure that you are set up and ready in advance, consider carefully the following tips to make a success out of your Skype interview:  1. Add the hospital Skype ID 24 hrs prior to your interview. Your IMG Consultant will provide you with this in advance. 2. Send a message to the hospital Skype ID, stating your name and the post you are interviewing for.  This helps check that the ID is correct and is active for the start of your interview.  3. Run a test call with an IMG Connect consultant. Just to be sure everything is working; we will run a dummy call with you well in advance of your interview. If there are any issues, we can address them together.  4. Be ready 30 mins prior to the call.  It is best to be prepared, with your CV, notes and a glass of water at the ready.  Don’t forget to relax.  During the Skype interview: First impressions are important when wanting to create a lasting good impression. Apply these tips right from the beginning of the interview to make sure you potraying yourself in the manner you want to, from start to finish. 1. Be on time. Despite the fact that your interview will be held over Skype, it is vital that you set up in plenty time and allow time for things to go wrong. If you do get delayed, make sure you notify your IMG Consultant and the contact within the organisation as soon as possible. 2. Dress appropriately.  You may be on screen, but that includes trousers too! Dress as you would for any interview, it will also help you to feel confident.  3. Don’t forget to smile!  When you answer the call, don’t forget to smile. Greet the panel as you would for any interview (minus the shaking of hands of course). From start to finish, relax, be yourself and smile. The panel want to know that you cope under pressure, and can be a good member of their team, ultimately improving patient care. Your personality is key to this success!  4. Make eye contact and engage with all members of the interview panel. Just like an ordinary interview, try to engage with all members of the panel. You will know in advance who they are, so greet them and address them directly throughout your interview. Oh, and don’t forget to use address the panel using their correct titles!  5. Sell yourself.  Give real examples of 'how' you have achieved positive outcomes, specify what these were and the benefits. Be clear about what your personal contribution was. So, don’t be too modest - it can be hard at times, but you are there to highlight your attributes and achievements.  6. Remember to use 'I' rather than 'we'. This adds impact to your achievements, and lets the panel know the contributions YOU have made in your career as a doctor so far. 7. Be aware of your body language. You want to convey that you're enthusiastic, positive and energetic, yet focused… don’t fidget!  8. Be positive at all times. It can be hard, especially when you have faced some challenging questions, but keep calm, stay positive and remember to relax!  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 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: