GMC Registration

Overview

GMC registration is your legal licence to work as a doctor in the UK. Without it, you cannot start any clinical job in the NHS. The route you use depends on your qualifications and career stage.

This page gives you a clear understanding of the process without confusion.

What is the GMC?

The General Medical Council (GMC) is the regulator for doctors in the UK. They are responsible for:

  • Maintaining the medical register
  • Setting professional standards
  • Ensuring patient safety
  • Approving who is allowed to practise medicine

Being registered means the UK officially recognises you as safe to practise.

Common Routes to GMC Registration

1. PLAB / UKMLA Route

This is the most common route for IMGs.
It involves:

  • English language test (IELTS or OET)
  • PLAB 1 (written exam)
  • PLAB 2 (clinical OSCE-style exam in the UK)

Once completed, you can apply for full GMC registration.

2. Postgraduate Qualification Route

Some exams allow direct GMC registration without PLAB, for example:

  • MRCP (UK)
  • MRCS
  • Some recognised international postgraduate qualifications

This route is usually chosen by doctors who are more exam-focused and confident academically.

3. Sponsorship Route

Less common and usually arranged through:

  • NHS trusts
  • Royal colleges
  • Recognised sponsorship bodies

This requires institutional support and is not the typical first pathway.

English Language Requirement

You must prove English proficiency through:

  • IELTS Academic (usually overall 7.5, minimum 7.0 in each section)
    OR
  • OET Medicine (Grade B in each section)

This is mandatory even if you are clinically excellent.

Documents You’ll Commonly Need

Most applicants will be asked for:

  • Medical degree certificate
  • Internship certificate
  • Certificate of Good Standing
  • Passport
  • English test results
  • Exam results (PLAB / MRCP etc.)
  • Employer references

Good organisation here prevents delays later.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying with incomplete documents
  • Uploading unclear scans
  • Underestimating how long verification takes
  • Booking PLAB 2 without preparation
  • Assuming the process is fast

GMC processes are structured but not quick — planning matters.

Reality Check

GMC registration is not about intelligence.
It is about patience, organisation, and persistence.

Many excellent doctors struggle simply because they underestimate the admin side.

Reassurance see

Thousands of IMGs successfully register with the GMC every year and go on to build strong careers in the NHS. With clarity and preparation, this is an achievable step.