Post Graduation in UK After MBBS - Pursuing post graduation (PG) in the UK after MBBS is a popular choice among international medical graduates (IMGs), especially for Indian doctors looking for high-quality training, global recognition, and career opportunities. The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) provides world-class medical education, research opportunities, and hands-on clinical training, making it an attractive destination for PG medical studies.
If you are planning to pursue MD, MS, or any postgraduate medical specialization in the UK, this guide will help you understand the eligibility criteria, pathways, entrance exams, costs, top universities, and career opportunities.
Why Choose the UK for Medical Postgraduation After MBBS?
The United Kingdom is known for its rigorous medical training system, offering PG courses that are highly valued worldwide. Here are the top reasons to study postgraduation in medicine in the UK:
1. Globally Recognized Degrees
PG medical qualifications from the UK, such as MRCP (Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians) and MRCS (Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons), are recognized worldwide.
UK-trained doctors have excellent job prospects in Europe, the Middle East, and Australia.2. No NEET-PG Required
Unlike India, where doctors need to clear NEET-PG, the UK offers alternative pathways like PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) or MRCP/MRCS for international medical graduates.3. Work While Studying
Medical students can work as NHS trainees, gaining hands-on experience while completing their postgraduate studies.4. High Salary and Career Growth
Doctors working in the UK earn an average salary of £40,000 - £70,000 per year, depending on specialization and experience.5. Opportunities for PR and NHS Jobs
Completing PG medical training in the UK improves the chances of getting permanent residency (PR) and securing a long-term career in the NHS.Pathways for Post Graduation in UK After MBBS
There are two main pathways for international students to pursue postgraduate medical education in the UK after MBBS:
1. PLAB Route (General Pathway for Medical Graduates)
The PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) exam is an entry requirement for international doctors who want to work and train in the NHS.
Steps for PLAB Pathway:
- Pass the IELTS or OET: Minimum IELTS score 7.5 (each section 7) OR OET Grade B.
- Pass PLAB 1 Exam: A written MCQ test conducted worldwide.
- Pass PLAB 2 Exam: A practical clinical exam held in the UK.
- Get GMC Registration: After passing PLAB 2, apply for General Medical Council (GMC) registration.
- Apply for NHS Jobs: Work in UK hospitals and gain experience before applying for a PG specialization.
2. MRCP/MRCS Route (Direct Entry to Specialization)
If you want to specialize directly after MBBS, you can opt for the MRCP (Physicians) or MRCS (Surgery) exams instead of PLAB.
Steps for MRCP/MRCS Pathway:
1. Pass MRCP/MRCS Exams:- MRCP: For medicine specializations like Cardiology, Neurology, Gastroenterology.
- MRCS: For surgical specializations like General Surgery, Orthopedics.
2. Apply for GMC Registration: After passing MRCP/MRCS, apply for Full GMC Registration.
3. Apply for Specialty Training (ST1/ST2): Secure a position in UK-based training hospitals for postgraduate specialization.💡 Which is Better?
- PLAB is faster and easier, but it doesn’t directly lead to specialization.
- MRCP/MRCS is tougher, but it allows direct entry into medical specializations.
Eligibility Criteria for PG Medical Courses in UK
✔ MBBS Degree from a Recognized University
✔ IELTS (7.5) or OET (B Grade) for English Proficiency
✔ PLAB/MRCP/MRCS Qualification (Depending on the pathway)
✔ Clinical Experience (Preferred for Direct Entry into PG Specialization)
For direct MD/MS admission, some universities may require clinical experience in a hospital setting.
Top Universities & Institutions Offering PG Medical Courses in UK
Many UK universities offer postgraduate medical programs, including MD, MS, and research degrees.
| University | Popular PG Medical Courses |
|---|---|
| University of Oxford | Clinical Medicine, Public Health |
| University of Cambridge | Surgery, Internal Medicine |
| Imperial College London | Cardiology, Oncology, Neurology |
| University of Edinburgh | Dermatology, Orthopedics |
| King’s College London | Pediatrics, Psychiatry, General Medicine |
For specialization, students can also train in NHS-affiliated hospitals, which provide hands-on clinical exposure.
Cost of Post Graduation in UK After MBBS
The cost of studying medicine in the UK varies based on the university and program.
| Expense | Cost (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | £20,000 - £50,000 per year |
| PLAB Exam Fees | £240 (PLAB 1), £879 (PLAB 2) |
| MRCP Exam Fees | £1,200 - £1,600 per part |
| Living Expenses | £10,000 - £15,000 per year |
💡 Scholarships: Universities and medical councils offer scholarships and grants to help international students cover tuition fees.
Career Opportunities After PG in UK
After completing PG studies, doctors can work in:
✔ National Health Service (NHS) (Permanent jobs in hospitals)
✔ Private Hospitals & Clinics
✔ Medical Research & Teaching
✔ Healthcare Administration
| Specialization | Average Salary (Per Year) |
|---|---|
| General Physician | £50,000 - £80,000 |
| Cardiologist | £70,000 - £150,000 |
| Orthopedic Surgeon | £90,000 - £200,000 |
| Anesthesiologist | £80,000 - £170,000 |
FAQs About Post Graduation in UK After MBBS
1. Can I do MD/MS in the UK after MBBS in India?
Yes, Indian students can apply for MD/MS programs in the UK after clearing PLAB or MRCP/MRCS exams.
2. Is PLAB necessary for PG in the UK?
PLAB is required for general medical practice, but MRCP/MRCS allows direct entry into PG specializations.
3. Can I get a job in the NHS after PG in the UK?
Yes! Most PG medical graduates get NHS job placements after completing specialization training.
4. Is PG from the UK valid in India?
Yes, PG medical degrees from the UK are recognized by MCI/NMC but require an equivalency process.
5. How long does PG medical training in the UK take?
PG medical training typically lasts 3-7 years, depending on specialization.
Conclusion
Pursuing post graduation in the UK after MBBS provides world-class medical education, global career opportunities, and high salaries. Whether you choose PLAB or MRCP/MRCS, studying medicine in the UK offers excellent training and career growth in the healthcare industry.
