Transitioning to Foundation Year 1 (FY1) in the UK: A Guide for Medical Graduates

Step 1: GMC Registration (Pre-PLAB)

Before sitting the PLAB exams, students must register with the href=”https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Medical_Council” target=”_blank”>General Medical Council (GMC), the UK’s medical licensing authority. This registration is a prerequisite for all International medical graduates (IMGs), including UK nationals who studied outside the UK.

NAU provides comprehensive support, including:

• Guidance on document preparation (ECFMG verification, degree certification, identity documentation)
• Access to advisory sessions on GMC procedures and common challenges
• Personalised planning to align with GMC timelines and processing windows

Step 2: Early Registration for the UK Foundation Programme (UKFP)

Students must also register for the UK Foundation Programme via the Oriel portal, typically open between July and October for the intake starting the following August. Registering early—even before completing PLAB 1—is crucial.

At NAU, we ensure students are prepared through:

• Workshops on using the Oriel platform and understanding how to rank and apply for Foundation Schools
• Application strategy support, including guidance on white space questions and evidence preparation
• Regular reminders to meet key deadlines and avoid delays

Step 3: Taking PLAB 1 and PLAB 2

Once GMC registration is underway and Oriel registration is complete, students proceed with the PLAB 1 (a written test, held internationally) and PLAB 2 (a clinical OSCE, conducted in the UK).

NAU supports this process by:

• Providing access to top-tier PLAB preparation materials
• Organising study groups and practice sessions
• Assisting with exam scheduling, visa planning, and travel logistics for PLAB 2 in the UK

Step 4: GMC Registration

After successfully passing both PLAB exams, graduates become eligible to apply for provisional GMC registration, which allows them to work in an FY1 post in the UK.

NAU assists with:

• Supporting academic and identity documentation
• Reviewing applications to ensure accuracy and completeness
• Fast-tracking official transcripts and documents through NAU’s Registrar’s Office

Step 5: Progressing to FY1 Employment in the NHS

Once provisional registration is granted and UKFPO allocations are confirmed (usually by March), graduates can prepare to start their FY1 post in early August.

To support this transition, NAU provides:

• Pre-employment workshops covering NHS systems, clinical expectations, and professional conduct
• Mentorship Sessions, connecting medical graduates with doctors working in UK hospitals
• CV and interview coaching tailored to NHS trust-level recruitment and career progression

Your Pathway to UK Medical Practice Starts Here

Success in the NHS setting depends not only on clinical knowledge but also on readiness for professional practice. A clear understanding of the PLAB process and FY1 entry requirements is key to a smooth transition into UK medical practice.

If you are a student aspiring to practise in the UK, our team is here to guide you at every stage of your professional journey.