Dreaming of Becoming a Globally Licensed Doctor? Whether you’re a fresh medical graduate or planning to study MBBS abroad, understanding the medical licensing exams of your target country is crucial. Each nation has its own rigorous evaluation process to ensure that only qualified professionals provide medical care.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the major medical licensing exams across popular countries for international medical graduates (IMGs) — including India, the USA, UK, Canada, and Caribbean nations.
India – Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE)
Purpose: Mandatory for Indian citizens with foreign medical degrees to practice in India.
Conducted by: National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS)
Exam Frequency: Twice a year (June & December)
Format: 300 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) in two parts
Passing Criteria: 50% minimum score
Eligibility: Must be an Indian citizen or Overseas Citizen of India (OCI)
Must hold a medical degree from a WHO-recognized institution
Eligibility Certificate from NMC (if applicable)
Latest Update: Next FMGE exam expected in June 2025
USA – United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE)
Purpose: Required for medical licensure and residency in the United States.
Conducted by: USMLE (Joint program of FSMB & NBME)
Exam Structure:
Step 1 – Basic medical sciences
Format: Computer-based MCQs and case simulations
Step 2 CK – Clinical knowledge
Step 3 – Clinical skills for unsupervised practice
Eligibility: Graduation from a medical school listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools
ECFMG Certification for IMGs
When to Apply: Any time; exams held year-round at Prometric centers
UK – UK Medical Licensing Assessment (UKMLA)
Purpose: Mandatory for medical licensure in the UK starting 2024–25.
Conducted by: General Medical Council (GMC)
Components:
AKT (Applied Knowledge Test) – Computer-based MCQ exam
CPSA (Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment) – OSCE-style clinical skills test
Eligibility: UK medical students graduating from 2024–25 onward
International medical graduates (IMGs) applying for GMC registration
Note: Previously PLAB test for IMGs, now incorporated into UKMLA framework
Canada – Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC)
Purpose: National licensure requirement for practicing medicine in Canada.
Conducted by: Medical Council of Canada (MCC)
Exams:
MCCQE Part I – Tests clinical decision-making and foundational medical knowledge
MCCQE Part II (OSCE-style, suspended until further notice)
Additional Requirement: NAC OSCE – Required for residency applicants
Eligibility: Medical degree from a school listed in the World Directory
Postgraduate clinical training for LMCC eligibility
Caribbean – Caribbean Association of Medical Councils (CAMC)
Purpose: Licensure requirement across many Caribbean countries.
Conducted by: CAMC
Exam Frequency: Twice a year (April–May & October–November)
Format:
Part 1 – Written MCQs covering core disciplines
Part 2 – Clinical exam to assess hands-on skills
Eligibility: Degree from WHO-listed Caribbean medical schools
Completion of required training/internship
Fee: ~USD 800
Why Understanding Medical Licensing Exams Matters?
Getting licensed in your target country is more than passing a test — it’s your gateway to a medical career abroad. Here’s why you need to plan ahead:
- Timelines & Deadlines vary
- Preparation Strategies differ (MCQs, OSCEs, clinical cases)
- Country-specific Policies for IMGs constantly evolve
Conclusion
If you’re an aspiring doctor considering MBBS abroad, or already studying overseas, understanding medical licensing exams should be part of your game plan. These exams define your career mobility, residency opportunities, and scope of practice.
Stay informed, start early, and prepare strategically for whichever path you choose.
Need Help Choosing the Right Country or Understanding Licensing Pathways?
Get in touch with expert MBBS abroad advisors at eWings — from admission to licensing, we’ve got your back.
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