Applying for jobs in the NHS: a guide for international medical graduates (IMGs)

This practical guidance for IMGs applying for jobs in the NHS covers how to search and apply for NHS roles, arrange clinical attachments, and prepare effectively for NHS interviews. The information will help you understand expectations and present yourself confidently to employers.

Applying for jobs in the NHS

To work as a doctor in the UK, you must be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC). Securing your first GMC-registered employment (listed on the GMC register) in the NHS can take time and patience. IMGs who have not had previous NHS experience often apply for many posts before being shortlisted for interview. It is worth spending time and effort on tailoring your application to the role description and required expertise. Many IMGs will begin their NHS careers in locally employed roles, such as clinical fellow or trust grade positions, to gain experience of working within the NHS system.

Resources

Independent external links (please note our disclaimer)

Health in the UK is devolved, which means that each of the four nations — England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland — has its own NHS system. While the principles underpinning healthcare are similar, employment processes, contracts, policies and organisational structures may differ between nations. When exploring job opportunities, it is helpful to familiarise yourself with the NHS system in the country where you intend to work.

Resources

Clinical attachments

Clinical attachments are short-term, unpaid placements in an NHS hospital. They are an excellent way to observe how the NHS works and understand the roles and responsibilities of doctors working within the system. While clinical attachments do not count as NHS experience, they can help boost your confidence and focus if you are preparing for exams, such as the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) test. You can also translate any learning and/or reflections from your clinical attachment into future job applications.

Attachments last from 2–6 weeks on average. Securing an attachment can be a competitive process as the demand is high, so it is best to apply well in advance of the time you are hoping to start. It is helpful to specify your desired dates/specialties in your application. There is no single route for securing an attachment, but these steps can improve your chances:

  1. search ‘clinical attachment NHS’ online and include the specific hospital name(s) if you have a particular geographical area in mind
  2. contact friends or colleagues working in the NHS to see if they can help you facilitate a connection and find a hosting department
  3. discuss your plans with your current or previous supervisors, as they may be able to connect you with colleagues in the NHS who can support you in arranging an attachment.

Before attending your attachment, make a list of questions you have about life and work in the NHS. This is your opportunity to learn as much as possible about the systems and processes. You can also use the attachment to enquire about jobs that might be coming up at the hospital and ask if one of the doctors/your supervising consultant could help you prepare your job application and/or for interview.

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Young Doctors Walking Through Corridor

Preparing for your NHS interview

Preparing for an interview is not dissimilar to preparing for an exam – it takes time and focus to ensure you are in the best position to sell yourself to the interviewers and deliver succinct answers that match both the job description and person specification for the specific post you are applying for.

Resource

Independent external link (please note our disclaimer)

Doctor doing examination

Find out more

Explore different sections of resources for IMGs who are planning to start work in the NHS, as well as those already working and training in the UK 

Moving to the UK as an international medical graduate: visas, finances and living essentials

Links to useful resources on visas, NHS pay and finances, housing, healthcare access, childcare and schooling, transport and available NHS staff discounts.

Starting work in the NHS: pre-employment checks and preparation for IMGs

Information on the required pre-employment checks, what to expect in your first few weeks, key NHS organisations, and the importance of medical indemnity cover.

NHS induction, supervision and ePortfolio: guidance for international medical graduates

What to expect from your NHS induction, how to use your ePortfolio effectively, and the role of clinical and educational supervision.

Career development and support for IMGs in the UK: RCP resources and training pathways

Postgraduate training pathways, pastoral support and IMG networks, continuing professional development, and key processes such as CREST forms, appraisal and revalidation

Refugee physicians

Support for refugee physicians in the UK, including free or discounted RCP membership, training resources and signposting to employment pathways, helping them rebuild medical careers and maintain professional development in the UK.

RCP Membership

We advocate for your needs, help you gain new skills and knowledge, keep you informed of the latest developments and enable you to connect with supportive colleagues through our local, national and global networks.