Applying to the UK Foundation Programme as an IMG
For international medical graduates (IMGs), applying to the UK Foundation Programme (UKFP) is often the first step toward building a medical career in the UK. However, understanding whether you’re eligible, how to apply, and what to expect can be confusing—especially with evolving rules and processes. If you're considering starting your postgraduate medical journey in the UK, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the UK Foundation Programme as an IMG.
What Is the UK Foundation Programme?
The UKFP is a structured two-year postgraduate training programme for new medical graduates in the UK. It consists of Foundation Year 1 (FY1), which is equivalent to internship, and Foundation Year 2 (FY2), an additional year of supervised clinical practice before progressing to specialty training.
As an IMG, this programme is suitable only if you have not yet completed internship overseas. If you have already completed an internship—or plan to—then you will not be eligible to apply for FY1.
Should You Apply for UKFP as an IMG?
There are several factors to consider before committing to the UKFP path:
Skipping Internship Overseas
If you're planning to settle in the UK long-term, joining the Foundation Programme can help you integrate into the NHS system right from the start. It offers a supportive environment with structured learning and supervision, which can make your transition smoother.
However, some IMGs must complete a pre-graduate internship before being awarded their degree, making it impossible to skip. Others may choose to complete internship first in their home country to save money before starting the PLAB and UK immigration process. There's no universally right answer—it depends on your individual circumstances.
Managing the Gap Year
Due to the timing of applications and programme start dates, most IMGs will experience a gap of several months (or longer) between medical school graduation and the beginning of FY1. While this may seem daunting, in the long run, it is a small blip in an otherwise lengthy medical career and doesn’t impact your future prospects.
Key Requirements for IMG Applicants
Here are the major eligibility factors that IMGs must meet when applying for UKFP:
1. PLAB Exam
If you graduated from a non-UK, non-EU medical school, you’ll likely need to pass the PLAB exams to obtain provisional GMC registration. This applies even to EU nationals who studied outside the UK.
2. English Language Proficiency
The UKFP has stricter English requirements than the GMC. You’ll need to prove your proficiency through one of the following:
IELTS with a minimum score of 7.5 in all sections
OET Medicine with a minimum score of 400 in all sections
A Dean’s Statement confirming that your degree was taught and examined entirely in English and that over 75% of clinical interactions were conducted in English (only accepted from eligible schools)
3. Right to Work and Visa Sponsorship
You do not need to have the right to work in the UK at the time of application. Successful applicants are sponsored and issued a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) closer to the start of the programme, which is used to apply for your UK work visa. This visa also allows you to bring dependants (spouse and children under 18).
4. Clinical Assessment
If you qualified before a certain cutoff date, you may need to complete a Clinical Assessment, which is a practical exam similar in structure to PLAB 2. Passing PLAB 2 does not exempt you from this requirement.
The Application Process for IMGs
The UKFP application process is split into two key phases:
Phase 1: Eligibility Checking
This is where the UKFP office assesses whether you meet the basic requirements to apply for FY1. This step involves:
Completing an online eligibility application via the Oriel platform
Uploading required documents (proof of ID, Dean’s Statement, English proficiency)
Even if you have not yet received your medical degree, you can still apply provided your Dean’s Statement confirms that you will qualify by a specified date. The outcome of this check determines whether you are allowed to proceed to the next stage.
Phase 2: Foundation Programme Application
If your eligibility is confirmed, you’ll move on to the actual UKFP application. This is also submitted via the Oriel platform. Previously, this phase included scoring components like the Situational Judgement Test (SJT) and academic achievements, but these have been removed in favour of a computer-generated ranking system. Applicants will be matched to programmes based on preferences and availability.
If you are deemed ineligible in Phase 1, you will have an opportunity to appeal.
Documents You’ll Need to Apply
At the time of eligibility application, you must submit:
Proof of identity
Signed Dean’s Statement
Proof of English language proficiency
Other documents—like your medical degree certificate, PLAB results, and proof of provisional GMC registration—can be submitted later, but you must meet strict final deadlines or your application will be withdrawn.
What’s Changed with the Scoring System?
The UKFP has eliminated the SJT and points-based scoring for academic performance. Instead, the new allocation system uses a computer-generated ranking to distribute applicants into programmes based on their stated preferences and availability. While details are still unfolding, the goal is to simplify the process and reduce the pressure on applicants.
In Summary
The UK Foundation Programme is an excellent entry point into the NHS for IMGs who have not yet completed internship. While the process requires careful planning, the benefits of starting your medical career in the UK from FY1 are substantial. With equal opportunity policies in place and no age restrictions, UKFP provides a clear and structured path for international doctors to launch their UK careers.
3 Key Tips for Success as an IMG Applicant
✅ Start Early – Preparing documents, passing PLAB, and meeting deadlines can take months. Begin as soon as possible.
✅ Meet the English Requirements – The language standards are high. Prepare thoroughly and don’t underestimate this step.
✅ Use Oriel Confidently – Familiarise yourself with the application platform early. It's where everything happens, from eligibility to programme selection.
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