There’s some exciting news if you’ve passed exams like USMLE, MCCQE, or AMC! The GMC (General Medical Council) of the UK now accepts these qualifications as pathways to complete registration, allowing you to work as a doctor in the UK or England. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect and how to prepare with UK Medics.

Who Can Apply?

Via USMLE

You can apply if you’ve passed Step 2 CS on or before March 13th, 2020, along with Step 1 and Step 2 CK (at any time). However, this route is not open to graduates from medical schools in the UK or Switzerland.

Via MCCQE

You can apply if you’ve completed MCCQE Part 2 in English on or before October 27th, 2020. Again, this doesn’t apply to UK or Swiss medical graduates.

Via AMC

You’re good to go if you’ve passed the AMC Clinical Examination on or before March 5th, 2020. The same exclusions apply, no UK or Swiss graduates.

What Are the Key Requirements?

Regardless of the route you take, there are a few universal requirements you’ll need to meet:

1. Internship Completion

You must have completed an acceptable internship pattern to qualify for full GMC registration. This typically involves hands-on clinical experience across key specialities. If you’re unsure what qualifies, check out our guide on internship criteria.

Pro Tip: If you haven’t completed an internship, don’t worry; you may still be eligible for provisional registration, which allows you to complete the UK Foundation Programme (UKFP) as your internship equivalent.

2. English Language Proficiency

The GMC requires proof of your English language skills through IELTS or OET. Here’s what you need to know:

• IELTS: You must score at least 7.5 overall, with no less than 7.0 in each module (listening, reading, writing, and speaking).
• OET: You need a Grade B in all four modules.

Important Note: You won’t be eligible if your scores exceed these thresholds. For example, scoring 8 overall in IELTS but only 6.5 in writing won’t cut it.

How Do I Apply?

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the application process:

Step 1: Check Your Medical School

Before anything else, confirm that your medical school is listed on the WDOMS (World Directory of Medical Schools). If it’s not, don’t panic; there’s a process to get it added. Just reach out to the GMC for guidance.

Step 2: Gather Proof of Passing

You’ll need official documentation proving you’ve passed your chosen exam (USMLE, MCCQE, or AMC). This could be a transcript or certificate; ensure it’s ready to submit.

Step 3: Contact the GMC

Email [email protected], expressing your interest in applying via this route. They’ll send you an application form to complete.

Step 4: Prove Your English Skills

Submit your IELTS or OET test report form along with your application. Double-check that your scores meet the GMC’s strict requirements.

Step 5: Get a Certificate of Good Standing (CGS)

If you’ve registered with any medical regulatory authority in the past five years, you’ll need a Certificate of Good Standing from each. These certificates are valid for three months, so timing is crucial.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure whether you need a CGS, check out our detailed guide on documents required for GMC registration.

Step 6: Open a GMC Online Account

Create an account on the GMC website if you haven’t already done so. This will give you a GMC Reference Number, which you’ll need for your application.

Step 7: Complete EPIC Verification

Your Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) must be verified through EPIC. This is a mandatory step for all international medical graduates.

Step 8: Pay the Fee

The application fee for GMC registration is £406 (as of 2025). Make sure you’re ready to pay this when submitting your application.

Step 9: Attend an ID Check

Unlike the PLAB route, you must attend an in-person ID check in the UK. This is where the GMC verifies your identity using your original documents.

What Documents Will I Need?

When submitting your application, you’ll need to include scanned copies of the following:

1. Your Passport: A clear copy of the photo page.
2. Your Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ): Your final medical diploma, EPIC-verified.
3. Proof of Passing: Documentation showing you’ve passed USMLE, MCCQE, or AMC.
4. English Language Test Results: IELTS or OET test report form.
5. Certificates of Good Standing (CGS): From every medical authority you’ve been registered within the past five years.
6. Translations: If any documents aren’t in English, provide certified translations.

Filling Out the Application Form

The application form will ask for some details, including:

• Personal Information / Demographics: Name, Date of Birth (DOB), Gender, etc.
• Contact Details: Provide an address where you can receive mail, even outside the UK.
• Nationality & Passport Info: Use the nationality you want to register under; it doesn’t have to match the one you used during medical school.
• Internship Details: Include information about your internship, ensuring it meets the GMC’s acceptable pattern.
• Work History: List all periods of employment, non-medical work, or breaks over the past five years. Be thorough; this section often raises questions for applicants.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure how to tackle this part, check out our guide on How To Apply For GMC Registration.

What Happens Next?

Once you’ve submitted your application and documents to [email protected], the GMC will review your case. If they need more information, they’ll reach out. Be responsive; if your circumstances change, let them know immediately.

Special Considerations

Clinical Practice Requirement

If you passed your clinical skills exam more than two years ago, you must demonstrate that you’ve been actively involved in medical practice for at least three of the last five years. Additionally, you must have been working in the six months leading up to your application. You won’t be eligible for registration if you don’t meet these criteria.

Provisional vs. Full Registration

• Provisional Registration: If you haven’t completed an acceptable internship, you’ll be granted provisional registration. This allows you to join the UK Foundation Programme (UKFP) as your internship equivalent.
• Full Registration: Once you’ve completed an acceptable internship or UKFP, you can upgrade to complete registration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What If My Medical School Isn’t Listed on WDOMS?

Don’t worry! There’s a straightforward process to get your school added. Reach out to the GMC for assistance.

Can I Apply If I’ve Taken PLAB?

No, you’re no longer eligible for this route if you’ve taken and failed PLAB after passing USMLE, MCCQE, or AMC.

Will I Face Restrictions as an International Graduate?

Absolutely not! The UK has removed all restrictions for international medical graduates. You’ll be judged on merit, just like UK graduates.

What’s the Salary Like for UK Doctors?

Salaries vary depending on your role and hours worked. Check out our article on doctor salaries in the UK for more details.

What Are the Working Hours?

UK doctors benefit from the European Working Time Directive (EWTD), which limits working hours to ensure a healthy work-life balance. Learn more in our guide on working hours for UK doctors.

Final Thoughts

Applying for GMC registration via USMLE, MCCQE, or AMC is a fantastic opportunity to kickstart your medical career in the UK. While the process may seem daunting, UK Medics have made it simple.

Stay organized, gather your documents early, and don’t hesitate to contact the GMC if you’re unsure; they’re there to help!

Good luck, you’ve got this! And remember, if you have any questions, please drop them for UK Medics in the comments below.