FAQ'S
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Which documents do I need to register with the GMC?
The documents required for GMC registration may vary depending on individual circumstances and the specific pathway to registration. However, the following are commonly requested documents:
Primary Medical Qualification:
You will need to provide proof of your primary medical qualification, such as your medical degree certificate. If your qualification is obtained from outside the UK or EEA, it will need to be verified by the GMC through the Electronic Portfolio of International Credentials (EPIC).
Postgraduate Qualifications:
If you have completed any postgraduate training or specialty qualifications, you may need to provide evidence of these qualifications. This can include certificates, diplomas, or transcripts.
Identification Documents:
You will be required to submit identification documents to verify your identity. This can include a valid passport, national identity card, or driving license.
English Language Proficiency:
If English is not your first language, you may need to demonstrate your proficiency in the English language. Accepted language tests include the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Occupational English Test (OET), or other approved English language assessments.
Good Standing Certificate:
If you have previously practiced medicine or held a medical registration in another country, you may need to provide a certificate of good standing from the relevant medical regulatory authority.
Medical Registration History:
You may be asked to provide details of your medical registration history, including any previous or current medical registrations, both in the UK and abroad.
Professional Reference:
You may need to provide a professional reference from a senior medical colleague or supervisor who can vouch for your skills, competence, and professional conduct.
It is important to note that these are general requirements, and additional documents or specific documentation may be requested depending on individual circumstances and the registration pathway chosen. It is advisable to consult the GMC website or contact the GMC directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the documents required for GMC registration in your particular case.
How do I verify my qualifications for GMC registration?
To complete the GMC registration process, it is necessary to verify your primary medical qualification and any applicable post-graduate qualifications through the Electronic Portfolio of International Credential (EPIC).
After creating your account and submitting the required qualifications, EPIC will coordinate with the relevant awarding bodies to authenticate them.
Upon completion, you will receive an EPIC ID, which must be provided to the GMC when submitting your application.
To allow for processing time, it is advisable to initiate the EPIC procedure as early as possible, as it can take up to 90 days to finalise.
Which English Language exam do I need to pass to qualify for GMC registration?
During the GMC registration process, it is necessary to demonstrate your proficiency in the English language. There are several ways to fulfil this requirement:
- Attaining an overall score of at least 7.5 in the IELTS, with no individual module score lower than 7.
For test dates, locations, and registration, please check here.
To prepare for the IELTS, you can access practice tests and resources.
- Achieving a minimum grade of B in each section of an OET exam.
For test dates, locations, and registration, please check here.
Practice tests and preparation materials for the OET are available. - Having completed your Primary Medical Qualification within the past two years, with instruction and examinations conducted exclusively in English.
Refer to the guidance provided to determine if your primary medical qualification can be used to meet this requirement.
Please note that each option provides a different pathway to demonstrate your English language proficiency for GMC registration.
Which documents do I need to register with the NMC?
To register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), you will typically need the following documents:
Proof of identity:
This can be a valid passport or a national identity card.
Proof of language proficiency:
You will need to demonstrate your English language proficiency. Accepted language tests include the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Occupational English Test (OET). Check the NMC’s website for specific language requirements.
Education and qualification documents:
Diploma or degree certificates: Provide evidence of your nursing or midwifery qualification.
Transcript of training:
This document outlines the modules or subjects you have completed during your nursing or midwifery education.
Verification of training:
Some countries may require you to request verification from your nursing or midwifery regulatory authority to confirm the authenticity of your qualifications.
Registration or license:
If you have previously been registered as a nurse or midwife in another country, you may need to provide proof of registration or licensure.
Good health and character declaration:
You will be required to declare your good health and character, and in some cases, provide supporting documents such as medical reports or character references.
Employment history:
Prepare a detailed record of your employment history as a nurse or midwife, including dates, job titles, and employer contact details.
Declaration of fitness to practice:
You may need to declare that you are fit to practice as a nurse or midwife and that you have not been involved in any misconduct or malpractice.
It is important to note that the specific requirements and documents may vary based on individual circumstances, such as whether you are applying for initial registration, registration with conditions, or registration as a midwife. It is recommended to refer to the NMC’s official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding registration documents.
What English Language exams do I take for NMC registration?
To fulfil the English language proficiency requirements for NMC registration, you must undergo either the International English Language Test System (IELTS) Academic or the Occupational English Test (OET). These tests serve as proof of your competence in English communication. Your performance in reading, writing, listening, and speaking is of utmost importance, and meeting the required score in each section is necessary. It is essential to keep in mind that the validity of your test scores extends for two years. While we provide a brief overview here, we recommend referring to the NMC website for comprehensive information on licensing requirements.
IELTS
If you opt for the IELTS Academic examination, the NMC will accept a certificate that confirms your achievement of at least a score of 7 in reading, listening, and speaking, along with a score of at least 6.5 in writing. These minimum scores must be met to fulfil the NMC’s language proficiency requirements.
OET
The NMC will consider an OET examination certificate as valid evidence of English language proficiency if it confirms the following minimum grades:
Reading, listening, and speaking: Achieve at least grade B (350 or above).
Writing: Achieve at least grade C+ (300 or above).
Meeting these minimum grade requirements in the OET examination is acceptable for demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively in English for NMC registration purposes.
Combining your exams
If you are considering combining two IELTS test sittings to achieve the required mark, the following conditions must be met:
- The two test sittings must occur within a 12-month timeframe.
- All four sections of the test (reading, listening, speaking, and writing) must be taken during each sitting.
- In at least one of the test sittings, you must attain a minimum score of 7 in reading, listening, and speaking, as well as a minimum score of 6.5 in writing.
- None of the scores in either of the two test sittings can fall below 6.5 for listening, reading, and speaking, or below 6 for writing.
It’s important to note that you cannot combine scores from the Occupational English Test (OET) with IELTS test scores when combining tests. The combination option is only applicable to multiple IELTS test sittings.
SIFE
If you have attempted to combine your test scores and have narrowly missed there is sometimes exceptions and you can use supporting information from your employer (SIFE) Please see the NMC website for more details.
Please note that English language requirements can change over time, so it is important to check the NMC’s official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on English language exam requirements for NMC registration.
How do I apply for SMLE (Saudi Medical Licence Exam)?
To apply for the Saudi Medical Licensing Exam (SMLE), which is also known as the Saudi Medical Board Exam, you generally need to fulfil certain requirements and follow specific procedures. Here are the general steps involved in applying for the SMLE:
Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria set by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS). The specific eligibility requirements may vary, so it is important to refer to the official SCFHS website or contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information. Typically, you need to have a medical degree from a recognized institution and meet certain experience criteria.
Application: Complete the SMLE application form provided by the SCFHS. The application form is usually available on the SCFHS website or through their online portal. Provide the required personal and professional information, including your educational qualifications and clinical experience.
Fee Payment: Pay the examination fee as specified by the SCFHS. The fee amount and payment process will be outlined in the application instructions or on the SCFHS website.
Documentation: Prepare the required supporting documents, which may include:
- Copy of your valid passport.
- Copy of your medical degree certificate.
- Transcripts of your medical education.
- Certificate of internship completion.
Experience certificates or letters from your previous employers, confirming your clinical experience.
Submission: Submit your completed application form along with the supporting documents to the SCFHS. The submission process may vary, so follow the instructions provided by the SCFHS.
Exam Scheduling: Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will receive information about the exam scheduling process. The SCFHS will provide details regarding the exam dates, centers, and any additional instructions you need to follow.
Exam Preparation: Prepare for the SMLE by studying the relevant medical topics and familiarizing yourself with the exam format. There are various resources available, such as textbooks, review courses, and practice exams, to help you prepareIt is essential to note that the specific requirements, procedures, and exam content for the SMLE may change over time. Therefore, it is advisable to consult the official SCFHS website or contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the SMLE application process and requirements.