General Medical Council (GMC) Registration Guide

Whether you’re a UK graduate or an international medical professional aiming to practice in the UK, registering with the General Medical Council (GMC) is a critical step in your journey. This guide will walk you through what the GMC is, who needs to register, the qualifications required, and the full registration process step-by-step.

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What is the General Medical Council (GMC)?

The General Medical Council (GMC) is the official regulatory body for doctors in the UK. Its role is to:

• Maintain the official register of medical practitioners

• Ensure doctors meet required standards for education, training, and conduct

• Investigate and act on concerns about doctors

Being registered with the GMC means you are legally allowed to work as a doctor in the UK and adhere to the standards of medical ethics and clinical practice set by the Council.

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Who Needs to Register with the GMC?

You must register with the GMC if you:

• Want to practice medicine in the UK

• Intend to take up clinical posts or training positions

• Need to prescribe or interact with patients as part of your work

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What Qualifications Do You Need?

The qualifications vary depending on where you trained:

For UK Medical Graduates:

• A medical degree from a UK university

• Completion of the Foundation Year 1 (F1) programme

For International Medical Graduates (IMGs):

You’ll typically need:

• A primary medical qualification (PMQ) recognised by the GMC

• Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS or OET)

• Evidence of clinical knowledge and skills (e.g., PLAB, acceptable postgraduate qualification, or sponsorship)

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Step-by-Step Guide to GMC Registration

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Use the GMC eligibility checker to see which route you qualify for: provisional, full, or specialist registration.

Step 2: Pass an English Language Test

You must prove your English proficiency via one of the following:

• IELTS Academic: Minimum overall score of 7.5, with at least 7.0 in each domain.

• OET (Medicine): Minimum grade B in each domain.

Step 3: Evidence of Medical Knowledge

If you're an international doctor, you need to demonstrate medical knowledge and skills by one of the following:

• PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board)

• Recognised Postgraduate Qualification (e.g., MRCP, MRCS)

• Sponsorship from a recognised UK institution

Step 4: Create a GMC Online Account

Visit the GMC website and create an account. Complete the application form and upload all required documents, including:

• Passport

• PMQ

• English language certificate

• Evidence of clinical experience or postgraduate qualification

Step 5: Pay the Application Fee

Fees vary depending on the type of registration:

• Full registration (2024): £433

• Provisional registration: £173

• Annual retention fee: £433 (discounted for new graduates)

Step 6: Attend an Identity Check (if required)

You may be invited to attend an ID check in the UK. This is a short appointment to verify your documents in person.

Step 7: Receive Your Registration Decision

Once your application is reviewed and approved, you’ll receive confirmation, and your name will appear on the GMC register.

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Additional Tips for International Medical Graduates

• PLAB Route: If choosing the PLAB route, you must pass both PLAB 1 (MCQs) and PLAB 2 (OSCE-style clinical exam).

• Documentation: Make sure your PMQ is listed on the World Directory of Medical Schools.

• Preparation: Start gathering your documents early. Ensure translations are certified.

Registering with the GMC is a key milestone for doctors aiming to work in the UK. Once registered, you’ll be able to practice medicine legally in the UK and join a highly respected healthcare workforce.

If you’re ready to start your GMC registration journey, visit www.gmc-uk.org for the most up-to-date information.