Why Indian Medical Graduates Choose the UK
For Indian medical professionals, working as a doctor in the United Kingdom’s esteemed National Health Service (NHS) represents a major career milestone. The UK is known for its globally respected medical education and training through prestigious universities such as King’s College London, the University of Edinburgh, and the University of Manchester.
However, progressing from an Indian medical degree to practicing in the UK is a structured, multi-step journey that requires a solid understanding of the latest regulations and careful planning.
Is an Indian MBBS Degree Valid in the UK?
An MBBS degree from a recognised Indian university is valid and acknowledged in the UK, but holding this degree alone does not authorize you to practice medicine there. To ensure uniform high standards, the UK requires all international medical graduates (IMGs) to pass licensure examinations regulated by the General Medical Council (GMC), the authoritative body that maintains the official medical register in the UK. Ultimately, obtaining GMC registration is essential to legally work as a doctor in the UK.
Step by Step Pathway to Becoming a Licensed Doctor in the UK
The route to becoming a UK-licensed doctor can be summarised in five key steps:
Demonstrating English Language Proficiency
Before attempting medical licensure exams, you must prove your English language skills. The GMC recognises tests like:
- The International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
- The Occupational English Test (OET).
The OET is often preferred by healthcare professionals because its content is tailored to medical contexts, making preparation more relevant and practical.
UK Medical Licensing Examination (UKMLA)
From 2024 onwards, the UK Medical Licensing Assessment (UKMLA) has replaced the older Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) test for new applicants.
The UKMLA is designed to ensure all practicing doctors possess the required applied medical knowledge and clinical skills regardless of their country of graduation. The exam consists of two parts:
- The Applied Knowledge Test (AKT), a computer-based exam.
- The Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA), an in-person practical exam.
Those who started on the PLAB route before the transition may complete it, but UKMLA is now the standard for all new candidates. Passing both parts is mandatory to apply for GMC registration.
General Medical Council (GMC) Registration Process
After clearing UKMLA, you apply to the GMC for official registration, submitting essential documents such as:
- Your degree certificates
- Proof of English proficiency
- Identity verification
Once verified and fees are paid, you receive either provisional or full registration, enabling you to legally practice medicine in the UK.
Securing Employment with the National Health Service (NHS)
Most Indian doctors begin their UK careers within the NHS. The main portal for job vacancies is the NHS Jobs website, where you can search roles by:
- Specialty
- Location
- Grade
Preparing a UK-format CV that clearly highlights your clinical experiences and competencies is vital. Initial roles are often non-training positions or foundational posts such as Foundation Year 2 (FY2) or Senior House Officer (SHO) levels, offering orientation to the NHS system and a springboard to specialty training.
Health and Care Worker Visa Application Process
Once you secure a job offer with an NHS Trust, you receive a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), an essential document for visa application.
The Health and Care Worker visa category is specifically designed for qualified medical professionals. This visa offers advantages such as:
- Lower fees
- Exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge
- A path towards long-term settlement in the UK
Meeting eligibility requirements and submitting a correct application is essential for successful relocation.
How Much Does It Cost to Become a Doctor in the UK?
Preparing for this journey requires financial and time investment. In 2026, estimated costs include exam fees, visa charges, and other application-related expenses. It’s wise to budget beyond the bare minimum to cover preparatory exams, travel for the clinical skills assessments, and living costs during the job search period.
Salary Expectations for Doctors in the UK
Career progression in the UK follows a clear structure, starting with Foundation Year 1 and proceeding through various specialty training stages up to consultant roles. Salaries reflect this growth:
- Junior doctors earn approximately £32,000 to £40,000 annually
- Consultant doctors can earn between £50,000 and £120,000 annually or higher depending on specialties and additional responsibilities.
Salary increments also come from overtime, on-call duties, clinical excellence awards, and private practice engagements. When planning your career in the UK, consider your specialty choice carefully, gain leadership or teaching experience, and explore avenues for additional income.
Admissions for Indian Students Studying Medicine in the UK
For Indian students aspiring to study medicine in the UK, admission is highly competitive. Applicants must have strong academic records in science subjects at the 12th-grade level and clear English proficiency tests.
Entrance exams like the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) or the Biomedical Admissions Test (BMAT) are required. MBBS programs in the UK typically last 5 to 6 years, combining early clinical exposure with academic studies.
The total cost for studying medicine in the UK ranges broadly from £30,000 to £50,000 per year in tuition fees, plus £12,000 to £15,000 annually for living expenses, amounting to roughly ₹1.5 crore to ₹3 crore for the entire course.
Best Guidance with Becoming a Licensed Doctor in the UK
Our platform, Inforens, supports Indian medical students and graduates throughout this entire process. With Inforens, you can connect with experienced mentors via video calls who provide real, practical insights tailored to your career goals. Our personalized mentorship helps you navigate:
- Exam preparation
- Licensing
- Job applications
- Visa processes
All of which effectively increases your chances of success in the UK medical landscape.
In summary, becoming a doctor in the UK with an Indian medical background is challenging but achievable through a clearly defined process. Staying informed about recent updates such as the UKMLA licensing exam, English proficiency requirements, immigration policies, and NHS hiring protocols is critical.
With commitment, strategic planning, and access to expert guidance like that offered by Inforens, Indian doctors can build rewarding, respected careers within the UK’s healthcare system.