PG in UK After MBBS in India: Requirements, Cost, Best Universities

PG in UK after MBBS in India is a popular option for many Indian medical graduates seeking advanced education and career opportunities. Pursuing a postgraduate degree in the UK provides access to world-class medical education and the chance to gain international experience. Studying in UK offers a range of specialities, practical training, and exposure to diverse healthcare systems, which can significantly enhance a doctor’s career. Don’t know where to start? Look no further! In this blog, you will learn all about PG in UK after MBBA in India requirements, cost, best universities, courses, and more details.  

Key Aspects	Details
Eligibility	MBBS degree from a recognized institution in India.
Exams Required	IELTS OET (Occupational English Test) PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board)
Course Duration	3 to 6 years (depending on the specialty)
Specialities Offered	Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, Obstetrics & Gynecology, etc.
Cost of PG in UK after MBBS in India	GBP 20,000 to GBP 40,000 per year
Post-Study Work Opportunities	Postgraduate doctors can apply for a Tier 2 visa to work in the UK for up to 2 years.
Top Universities for PG in UK After MBBS in India	University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, King’s College London, etc.

Why Study PG in the UK After MBBS in India?

Medicine is one of the most lucrative fields in the UK offering a wide range of clinical specializations to choose from. MD in the UK is a 2-3 year research degree.

After completion, applicants are eligible to practice medicine not only in the UK but in India as well. UK degree is recognized in India by the MCI (Medical Council of India). Students can apply for PG in the UK after MBBS in India without clearing  NEET- PG.

MBBS is a great choice but opting for a PG course will broaden your knowledge and skills. Students who study medicine in the UK go through rigorous medical training after primary medical studies followed by foundation training, speciality training, GP, and other run-through training.

This helps in becoming a world-class medical practitioner. Pursuing PG in the UK after MBBS in India opens up a wide array of opportunities, you will be well-versed and advanced trained in your field of specialization.

Students looking to expand their knowledge base, and improve their procedural and clinical skills, should certainly opt for this option without a doubt.

How to Study PG in UK After MBBS in India

There are three main pathways to study PG in UK after MBBS in India. Each pathway has its own set of eligibility criteria and requirements. Let’s explore the details for applicants planning to study PG medicine in the UK.

1. GMC Registration via Sponsorship Route

This pathway allows Indian medical graduates to pursue PG studies in the UK with the support of a sponsor. The General Medical Council (GMC) has a list of approved sponsors who can sponsor students for Post Graduate studies or training at NHS (National Health Service) Trust Hospitals.

• Eligibility: Students who have not appeared for or have failed any part of the PLAB exam are eligible for this route.
• Training: This route enables students to gain hands-on clinical experience while completing their PG studies in the UK.

This pathway is highly beneficial for students looking for practical training alongside their academic program in some of the best NHS hospitals.

2. GMC Registration via PLAB

This is the traditional and widely known route for pursuing PG in the UK after MBBS in India. To follow this path, students must first take the PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) exam, further required to obtain GMC registration. This certification exam tests a student’s eligibility for GMC registration, which is mandatory for practicing medicine in the UK.

• Degree & Registration: The PLAB exam does not provide a degree, but it grants registration with GMC, allowing students to be officially recognized as qualified doctors in the UK.
• Eligibility: This pathway is available for students who clear the PLAB exam and gain full registration with GMC.

3. No GMC Registration – Under Observership

In some cases, Indian medical graduates can pursue PG medical courses in the UK without GMC registration through an observership program. Students undergo clinical practice and gain exposure to the UK healthcare system. However, they do not have full GMC registration.

This pathway is ideal for students wishing to explore the UK medical system before committing to full registration or licensure.

How to Study PG in UK After MBBS in India Without PLAB?

If you want to study PG in UK after MBBS in India PLAB, there are several pathways you can explore. One of the most prominent options is the MRCP (Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians) and MRCS (Membership of the Royal Colleges of Surgeons) pathway.

• MRCP: This postgraduate qualification is essential for students wanting to pursue higher speciality training in the UK. It is recognized by the General Medical Council (GMC) and allows graduates to obtain full GMC registration.
• MRCS: Similarly, if you’re interested in surgery, the MRCS qualification is necessary to progress into higher surgical training in the UK. It too is accredited by the GMC and provides the necessary credentials to practice in the UK.

Clearing MRCP or MRCS exams alone may not give you GMC registration. This is because you will still need to fulfil additional criteria such as experience and academic qualifications. 

Types of Courses for PG in UK After MBBS in India

After completing MBBS in India, students have a wide variety of Postgraduate (PG) courses available in the UK. These programs allow students to specialize in various fields, gain in-depth knowledge, and enhance their careers in medicine. Here’s a look at the different types of PG degrees you can pursue in the UK:

1. Master’s in Surgery (MS)

Master’s in Surgery is a popular course among students wanting to specialize in surgical fields. It offers in-depth training in advanced surgical techniques, patient management, and operative skills. Surgeons can specialize in specific areas like Orthopaedics, Ophthalmology, Urology, and more.  

2. Doctor of Medicine (MD)

The Doctor of Medicine in the UK involves intensive training, coursework, internships, and research opportunities. Completing an MD in fields such as Internal Medicine or Dermatology can open doors to high-paying roles and significant contributions to healthcare.

3. Master’s in Public Health (MPH)

For those interested in the non-clinical side of medicine, the MPH in UK program focuses on public health, global health issues, epidemiology, and health systems management. This course prepares students to tackle health policy challenges and work in government, NGOs, and public health organizations worldwide.

4. Fellowship Programs

Fellowships are specialized, short-term training programs for MBBS graduates who want to gain expertise in a specific medical field. Common fellowships include Cardiology, Oncology, Neurology, and Critical Care. These programs allow students to enhance their skills in a focused area of interest.

5. Research-Oriented PG Courses

Students interested in medical research or academic careers can pursue PG courses that focus on research training. These programs are ideal for those who want to contribute to medical innovations, conduct clinical trials, and publish research in top journals.

6. Postgraduate Diplomas and Certificates

For those seeking shorter, specialized training programs, Postgraduate Diplomas and Certificates are ideal. They differ from traditional degrees in several ways, especially in terms of their less extensive structure, shorter duration, and the level of qualification they offer.

Do Check Out:

• Medical Colleges in UK With Rankings
• Healthcare Courses in the UK| UG & PG Programs

Top Universities for PG in UK After MBBS in India

International students who wish to study PG in UK after MBBS in India can choose from many prestigious UK universities. These universities are known for their long-standing academic excellence and high education standards in the medicine field.

• Brighton & Sussex Medical School
• Hull York Medical School
• St George’s University of London
• Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry
• Swansea University Medical School
• University of Aberdeen School of Medicine and Dentistry
• University of Leicester Medical School
• Aston University Medical School
• University of Edinburgh Queens Medical Research Institute
• School of Medicine – University of St Andrews
• University of Sheffield Medical School
• Warwick Medical School
• University of Exeter Medical School
• University of Glasgow Medical School
• University of Liverpool School of Medicine
• Keele University School of Medicine
• School of Medicine – University of Dundee
• School of Clinical Medicine
• University of Plymouth Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry
• School of Medicine, Cardiff University
• School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester
• Newcastle University Medical School
• Leeds School of Medicine
• University of Southampton School of Medicine
• Norwich Medical School
• UCL Medical School
• Imperial College School of Medicine

Eligibility Requirements for PG in UK After MBBS in India

International students must meet certain eligibility criteria to pursue PG in UK after MBBS in India. Although it may vary depending on the university and course, here is a breakdown of general requirements:

1. Academic Requirements

• MBBS Degree: You must have completed your MBBS or an equivalent medical degree from a recognized university. The degree should be acknowledged by the UK’s General Medical Council (GMC).
• Internship/Clinical Experience: Many UK PG programs require candidates to have completed a one-year compulsory internship after their MBBS degree. This is especially necessary for programs involving practical, clinical-based learning and direct patient care.

2. Professional Examinations

Depending on the specific PG program, you may be required to pass certain professional exams to qualify for advanced study or practice in the UK:

• PLAB Test: International Medical Graduates (IMGs) must pass the PLAB test to demonstrate both their medical knowledge and English proficiency. It is also mandatory for securing GMC registration, which is further required for clinical roles or patient-facing courses in the UK.
• MRCP: As mentioned earlier, MRCP is required for those interested in specializations in internal medicine or related fields.
• MRCS: As discussed before: This qualification is essential for candidates pursuing surgical specializations. Similar to MRCP, MRCS consists of multiple examinations assessing theoretical knowledge and practical surgical skills.

3. English Language Proficiency

Since the medium of instruction in the UK is English, students who are not from an English-majority-speaking country must prove their proficiency by taking recognized language tests. The most commonly accepted tests are:

• IELTS Academic: A minimum overall score of 7.0 is required, with no individual band score below 6.5.
• OET (Occupational English Test): This is an alternative to IELTS for medical professionals. A grade of B or higher is typically required.

4. Work experience

• While not mandatory, some UK universities prefer candidates with at least 1-2 years of work experience in a relevant field.

Documents Required

• Mark Sheets/Transcripts
• Internship Completion Certificate
• PLAB and MRCP/MRCS Test Results
• IELTS and OET Scores
• Passport
• Photographs
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Letter of Reccomendations (LORs)
• NOC
• Bank Statements
• Sponsorship letter (if applicable)
• CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies)

Cost of Studying PG Medicine Courses in the UK

The cost of studying PG in the UK after MBBS in India can vary significantly depending on the university, course, and location. On average, international students can expect to pay between INR 15-30 lakhs per year for postgraduate medical programs. This cost includes tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses.

The tuition fees alone typically range from £20,000 to £50,000 annually, with certain specialized courses like surgery or cardiology being on the higher end. While the financial investment can be substantial, there are several funding options available, including scholarships and loans, to help ease the burden.

Do Check Out:

• Courses & Careers after MBBS 
• UK Scholarships for Indian Students

PG in the UK After MBBS in India Scope

A programme with worldwide recognition is the UK’s MSc/MD. The Medical Council of India (MCI) accepts medical degrees from the UK for registration as MD Internal Medicine in India. After completing Clinical MD in the UK for registration as a specialist doctor, the applicant is exempt from having to take the Screening Test in India. You can also work as an assistant professor in Indian medical colleges with this degree.

Here is a list of common job profiles that students consider after studying PG medicine courses in the UK. These salaries are approximations and can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and type of employer (NHS or private).

Job Profile	Average Annual Salary (UK)
Consultant Surgeon	£70,000 – £120,000
Consultant Physician	£70,000 – £110,000
GP (General Practitioner)	£60,000 – £90,000
Clinical Researcher	£30,000 – £60,000
Cardiologist	£80,000 – £120,000
Orthopaedic Surgeon	£75,000 – £120,000
Psychiatrist	£60,000 – £100,000
Dermatologist	£60,000 – £100,000
Paediatrician	£50,000 – £85,000
Neurosurgeon	£90,000 – £150,000
Urologist	£70,000 – £120,000
Ophthalmologist	£70,000 – £110,000
Academic Medical Lecturer	£40,000 – £70,000

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This was all about PG in the UK after MBBS in India. With numerous pathways, scholarships, and career prospects, the UK remains a top destination for medical graduates. However, navigating through the application process, university selection, and funding options can be complex. That’s where Leverage Edu comes in! Our team of experts is here to guide you through every step of your study abroad journey, from choosing the right university and program to handling applications, visa processes, and even scholarship opportunities. Reach out to Leverage Edu at 1800 57 2000 today, and let us help turn your dream of studying PG in the UK into a reality!