GMC English language requirements for international doctors
The GMC accepts two routes for English evidence: IELTS Academic with an overall 7.5 (and at least 7.0 in every sub-test) or OET Medicine with a grade B (350) in every sub-test. Certificates are valid for two years from the date of the sitting. Employer references and previous training in English can be used in limited cases.
What this covers
IELTS Academic
Overall 7.5, 7.0 minimum in each of listening, reading, writing and speaking. Sittings from British Council or IDP.
OET Medicine
Grade B (score 350) in all four sub-tests. Sittings on paper or on computer.
Two-year validity
Your certificate must still be valid on the date the GMC receives your application. Plan the exam alongside PLAB timelines.
Combining sittings
The GMC allows combining two sittings under strict conditions (same test, sittings within six months, all sub-tests reach the minimum across the two).
Read the guides in this cluster
- IELTS Academic for GMC registrationThe GMC's IELTS Academic scores, sub-test minimums, how the two-year validity works, and how to combine two sittings.
- OET Medicine for GMC registrationThe OET Medicine grades the GMC accepts, how each sub-test is scored, and how to book a sitting.
- IELTS vs OET for GMC registrationSide-by-side comparison of IELTS Academic and OET Medicine for the GMC's English requirement: format, cost, availability and difficulty.
- GMC English certificate expiry and combining sittingsWhen your IELTS or OET expires for GMC purposes, how the two-year rule interacts with your application, and when combining two sittings is allowed.
Official sources
Every fact above should be confirmed against the controlling source before you act on it.