As an IMG, English is the only language you would use to communicate with people in the UK. GMC requires candidates to undertake an English requirement exam before they can book you for the PLAB exam. This is done to prove that a candidate has the necessary language skills to work in the UK. Do not underestimate this exam.
Contents
What is the test structure?
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) consists of 4 sections i.e Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing. A minimum of 7 in each section with an overall band of 7.5 is required by the GMC. Before beginning your IELTS journey, assess yourself and give yourself some time to crack this exam. Many factors come into play: Cost of the exam, dates/locations available near you, and personal preference. Do not rush and pick a date that is right around the corner. Early planning is key.
What are the materials used?
- Books
- TV
- Youtube channels
- Coaching class
- Mock exams
Books
Cambridge test series are the most well-sought books available for IELTS preparation. These books contain multiple tests that help you understand each section and improve your language skills. You can also use the book sent by the British Council as soon as you book the date. This book, like the Cambridge series, comes with a CD which contains many listening sections with different accents, various reading passages, and several writing tasks. Barrons Writing for IELTS is also a great resource to strengthen the writing.
TV
A small change that many candidates can make in their daily life routine is to watch English TV shows(can be British, American or even Australian). If you find it difficult to follow, start with subtitles and then progress from there without them. Understanding the different accents and learning to follow them is very important for the listening section. From Irish to American accents, anything can surprise you.
YouTube channels
IELTS Liz is a great eye-opener. Her tips and methods for each section of the exam, really help you grasp what is exactly expected from this exam. Do not miss this channel. Another great resource on YouTube is going through the mocks for the speaking section. Many academies have uploaded their best candidates giving the mock exams. This gives you a sense of how to greet the examiner, the way the examiner grades the candidate, and how you can get the maximum points.
Coaching class
Any local IELTS coaching class can also help you gain the required scores. I had taken help from my local IELTS teaching centre for my writing section. The teacher there made me realize how I was complicating my writing and sometimes simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
Mock Exams
Many resources are available for mock exams. From internet sites to YouTube channels. All are just a click away. A random search on Google can show you multiple sites. The more you do, the more confidence you get. Many candidates book the exam without understanding the importance of studying for this exam. Assess yourself before you book a date, give yourself a timeline and give your 100%. If you don’t make it on the first attempt, don’t lose hope and keep trying.
References:
- IELTS Up: IELTS Guide
- Road to UK: How to prepare for IELTS
- British Council: IELTS
- IELTS Liz Youtube Channel
Written by: Dr Ashitha Nair
Edited by: Siddharth Sunil (Final Year Medical Student)
