United Kingdom · Licensing & Skills

GMC doctor registration

The General Medical Council (GMC) registers and licenses doctors to practice medicine in the United Kingdom via the PLAB/MLA examination or approved postgraduate qualifications.

Who it suits

Who this pathway suits

International Medical Graduates (IMGs) wanting to practice medicine in the UK.

Eligibility

Eligibility at a glance

  • Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) recognized by the GMC and listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools
  • English proficiency: IELTS Academic (minimum 7.5 overall and 7.0 in all bands) or OET (minimum B in all subtests)
  • Pass the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) / PLAB test (Part 1 and Part 2) OR hold an acceptable postgraduate qualification (e.g. MRCP, FRCS)
Process

How the process works

  1. Verify medical degree through EPIC (ECFMG)
  2. Pass English language test
  3. Pass PLAB 1 / MLA written examination and PLAB 2 clinical OSCE in Manchester
  4. Submit identity verification and receive GMC Registration with Full Licence to Practise
Documents

Documents you will typically need

  • Primary medical qualification, EPIC verification report, IELTS/OET certificate, Certificates of Good Standing, internship completion certificate
Good to know

What to keep in mind

Full registration with a licence to practise is required to take up medical posts in the NHS.

Official source: General Medical Council (GMC). Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.

Is GMC doctor registration the right route for you?

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