NHS specialty training routes for IMGs
UK specialty training is a national recruitment process. You apply through Oriel, are scored on a person specification and (for many specialties) an MSRA exam, and are matched to a deanery. IMGs can apply once they hold GMC registration and meet the specialty's competence requirements — usually evidenced through a CREST form and a portfolio.
Who this applies to
- IMGs planning to enter UK specialty training within 1–3 years.
- IMGs deciding between core training (CT1) and specialty training (ST1).
Key requirements
| Application portal | Oriel |
|---|---|
| Common entry points | CT1 (Internal Medicine, Surgery, Anaesthetics), ST1 (GP, Psychiatry, Paediatrics) |
| Assessment | Person spec + MSRA (most specialties) + interview |
Steps
1. Choose entry point
Match your post-graduate experience against the specialty person specification.
2. Complete evidence requirements
CREST form, MRCP/MRCS Part 1 where relevant, life-support certificates.
3. Apply via Oriel in the correct round
Round 1 typically opens in November; deadlines are strict.
4. Sit the MSRA and attend interview
Both scores feed into the ranking used to allocate posts.
Common failure points
- Missing a small piece of the person specification and being scored out at longlisting.
- Underestimating MSRA preparation.
Official sources
Every fact above should be confirmed against the controlling source before you act on it.