Global Medical Career Pathways 2026
Arcua OS is the end-to-end platform for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) navigating medical licensing and career pathways abroad. We cover the UK (UKMLA/PLAB, GMC registration), Ireland (IMC registration), Australia (AMC pathway, AHPRA), UAE (DHA, MOH), and USA (USMLE, ECFMG).
Get step-by-step roadmaps, exact exam fees, insider hacks, visa guides, and hospital job resources — all in one place.
UK Medical Pathway — UKMLA 2026
The PLAB has been replaced by the UKMLA (UK Medical Licensing Assessment), consisting of the AKT (Applied Knowledge Test, 200 SBA questions) and the CPSA (Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment, 16 OSCE stations in Manchester). GMC Full Registration fee is £481 in 2026.
Australia Medical Pathway — AMC
The AMC (Australian Medical Council) pathway involves AMC Part 1 MCQ ($2,920 AUD) and AMC Part 2 Clinical OSCE or Workplace Based Assessment (WBA) at an accredited hospital. AHPRA Provisional Registration and Subclass 482 Visa sponsorship from a hospital are required.
Ireland Medical Pathway — IMC Registration
International doctors targeting Ireland must complete EPIC primary source verification, an English language test (OET or IELTS), and register with the Irish Medical Council (IMC). Ireland offers EU residency rights, making it a popular pathway for IMGs.
EPIC Verification — What IMGs Need to Know
EPIC (Electronic Portfolio of International Credentials) via MyIntealth/ECFMG is required for GMC (UK), IMC (Ireland), and AMC (Australia) registration. Cost is approximately $130 USD base fee plus $100 per document. Takes 4–8 weeks.
- UKMLA (PLAB) Transition Guide for 2026 — AKT & CPSA explained
- AMC Pathway — MCQ, Clinical Exam, and WBA alternative
- IMC Ireland — EU pathway for international medical graduates
- AHPRA Registration — Provisional and General registration for IMGs
- UAE DHA & MOH Licensing — Healthcare careers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
- USMLE Residency Match — Step 1, Step 2 CK, and Match strategy
- EPIC Verification — Primary source verification for global medical boards
- OET vs IELTS — English language requirements for IMG doctors