Indian doctors planning to work abroad must pass an English language test — but the required test, score, and rules vary significantly by country. Some countries accept multiple tests with flexible score combining; others require a single test with high thresholds in one sitting. This comparison helps you choose the right destination and test based on your English profile.
United Kingdom (GMC)
- Accepted tests: IELTS Academic, OET
- IELTS requirement: Overall 7.5, minimum 7.0 in each band
- OET requirement: Grade B (350+) in all four sub-tests, single sitting
- Score combining: Not allowed for GMC
- PTE accepted: No
The UK has the strictest English requirements for doctors. The IELTS 7.5 overall is the highest threshold of any major destination, and the GMC's single-sitting requirement for OET (no score combining) raises the stakes. However, OET's clinical content gives most doctors a better chance than IELTS's academic essay.
Australia (AHPRA / Medical Board)
- Accepted tests: IELTS Academic, OET, PTE Academic
- IELTS requirement: Overall 7.0, minimum 7.0 in each band (some flexibility to 6.5 from 2026)
- OET requirement: Listening 350, Reading 360, Writing 350, Speaking 360 (from April 2026)
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- PTE requirement: 65 in each communicative skill
- Score combining: Allowed from two sittings within 12 months
Australia accepts three tests and allows score combining, making it the most flexible major destination. The 2026 IELTS relaxation (accepting 6.5 in individual bands with 7.0 overall) has further lowered the barrier. PTE is a viable third option if you struggle with both OET and IELTS.
UAE (DHA / DOH / MOHAP)
- Accepted tests: IELTS Academic, OET
- IELTS requirement: 6.5 overall (DHA/DOH) or 5.0 (MOHAP)
- OET requirement: Grade B (DHA/DOH) or Grade C (MOHAP)
- PTE accepted: Limited (check specific authority)
- English-medium exemption: Available if your MBBS was taught in English
The UAE has the lowest English requirements of any major destination, particularly MOHAP (Sharjah and northern emirates). If English testing is a significant barrier for you, the UAE offers the most accessible entry point. DHA (Dubai) and DOH (Abu Dhabi) have moderate requirements.
Canada (MCC)
- Accepted tests: Varies by province — IELTS, TOEFL, and others
- IELTS requirement: Typically 7.0 in each band (varies by province)
- OET: Not universally accepted across provinces for medical registration
- Score combining: Varies by province
Canada is the most fragmented system. Each province has its own medical licensing authority with different English test requirements. IELTS is the most universally accepted test. OET acceptance is growing but not universal. Research your target province's specific requirements before choosing a test.
Comparison at a Glance
Which Country Should You Target?
If your English is strong (IELTS 7.5+ achievable): The UK offers the highest salaries in purchasing-power terms and a clear NHS career pathway. The strict English requirement will not be a barrier for you.
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If your English is moderate (IELTS 7.0 achievable): Australia is the sweet spot. Three accepted tests, score combining, and the 2026 IELTS relaxation make it the most forgiving of the high-income destinations.
If English testing is a significant challenge: The UAE (particularly MOHAP) has the lowest thresholds and the possibility of English-medium exemptions. It is the fastest route to international practice.
If you want North America: Canada requires moderate English scores but has a fragmented, province-by-province system. The USA requires OET specifically for ECFMG certification, but the writing threshold (300) is manageable.
Whatever your destination, start your English test early. It is the universal bottleneck across all four countries, and the sooner you clear it, the sooner every other step in the registration process can begin.