# FAQs on How to Become a Doctor in England
Are you considering a career in medicine in England? Becoming a doctor is a long and complicated process, but with the right guidance, you can make it a reality. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of the steps you need to take in order to become a doctor in England, as well as answer some frequently asked questions about the process.
## Introduction to Becoming a Doctor in England
Becoming a doctor in England is a long and demanding process, but with the right dedication and planning, it is possible. To become a doctor in England, you must successfully complete a five-year undergraduate medical degree program, followed by two years of foundation training and four to six years of specialty training. After completing your training, you must obtain a licence to practice, either through the General Medical Council (GMC) or the European Economic Area (EEA).
## Completing an Undergraduate Medical Degree
The first step to becoming a doctor in England is to complete an undergraduate medical degree. This is a five-year program that includes classroom instruction and clinical experience in a hospital or other medical setting. During the program, you will learn about topics such as anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, pathology, and medical ethics. You will also gain hands-on experience in a clinical setting, which will help you develop your skills as a doctor.
## Passing the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board Test
Once you have completed your undergraduate medical degree program, you must take and pass the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) test. This is a two-part exam that tests your knowledge of medical science, communication, and ethics. Once you have passed the PLAB test, you will then be eligible to apply for foundation training.
## Completing Foundation Training
After passing the PLAB test, you must complete two years of foundation training. During this time, you will work in hospitals and other clinical settings, learning how to diagnose and treat patients. You will also gain further experience in medical ethics, communication, and other topics. After successfully completing foundation training, you will be eligible to apply for specialty training.
## Completing Specialty Training
The next step to becoming a doctor in England is to complete specialty training. This is a four to six-year program that provides you with the opportunity to focus on a specific area of medicine. During this time, you will gain experience in a particular specialty, such as surgery, family medicine, or pediatrics.
## Obtaining a Licence to Practice
Once you have completed specialty training, you must then obtain a licence to practice medicine in England. This is done through either the GMC or the EEA. To obtain a licence, you must pass the GMC’s Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board Test and meet other eligibility requirements.
## Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Doctor in England
### How long does it take to become a doctor in England?
It typically takes between seven and twelve years to become a doctor in England. This includes five years to complete an undergraduate medical degree program, two years of foundation training, and four to six years of specialty training.
### What qualifications do I need to become a doctor in England?
To become a doctor in England, you must successfully complete a five-year undergraduate medical degree program, pass the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) test, complete two years of foundation training, and complete four to six years of specialty training.
### What is the GMC?
The General Medical Council (GMC) is the regulatory body responsible for medical practice in the UK. To obtain a licence to practice medicine in England, you must pass the GMC’s Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board Test and meet other eligibility requirements.
### What is the EEA?
The European Economic Area (EEA) is a group of countries that have agreed to allow the free movement of goods, services, and people between them. It includes the countries of the European Union (EU) as well as Norway, Liechtenstein, and Iceland.
### What is the PLAB test?
The Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) test is a two-part exam that tests your knowledge of medical science, communication, and ethics. It is required for all doctors in England who wish to obtain a licence to practice medicine.
### What is foundation training?
Foundation training is a two-year program that provides medical graduates with the opportunity to gain experience in a hospital or other clinical setting. During this time, you will learn how to diagnose and treat patients, as well as gain experience in medical ethics and communication.
### What is specialty training?
Specialty training is a four to six-year program that provides medical graduates with the opportunity to focus on a specific area of medicine. It includes a period of supervised practice in a specialty, such as surgery, family medicine, or pediatrics.
### How do I obtain a licence to practice medicine in England?
To obtain a licence to practice medicine in England, you must pass the GMC’s Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board Test and meet other eligibility requirements. You can also obtain a licence through the European Economic Area (EEA).
## Conclusion
Becoming a doctor in England is a long and demanding process, but it is possible with the right dedication and planning. To become a doctor in England, you must complete an undergraduate medical degree program, pass the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) test, complete two years of foundation training, and complete four to six years of specialty training. After completing your training, you must obtain a licence to practice medicine in England, either through the General Medical Council (GMC) or the European Economic Area (EEA). With the right dedication and guidance, you can become a doctor in England and embark on a rewarding career in medicine.
