How long does it take to become a GP in the UK?

About ten years from starting medical school: five years of medical degree, two foundation years, then three years of GP training.

Can an overseas doctor become a GP in the UK?

Yes, either through GMC registration and UK GP training, or by applying for entry to the GP Register through the certificate of eligibility route.

How do you become a menopause specialist GP?

Qualify as a GP, then complete recognised menopause training and build supervised caseload. Most private menopause clinics ask for that qualification explicitly.

Route-in guide

How to become a GP in the UK

In short

You need a medical degree, two years of foundation training, then three years of GP specialty training including MRCGP. You are then added to the GMC GP Register. From starting medical school this is around ten years.

How long it takes

Roughly ten years: five for the medical degree, two foundation years, three years of GP specialty training.

What it costs

Medical school fees plus exam costs. MRCGP examination fees run to several thousand pounds across the components, and are usually partly reimbursed by the training programme.

Who regulates it

General Medical Council (GMC)

The route, step by step

Complete a medical degree
Five years, or four on a graduate-entry programme.
Foundation training
Two years of rotations across specialties, holding provisional then full GMC registration.
Apply to GP specialty training
Three years, combining hospital posts with supervised practice in general practice.
Pass MRCGP
Applied knowledge, simulated consultation and workplace-based assessment.
Join the GP Register
Formal inclusion on the GMC GP Register is what allows independent practice as a GP.
Add a special interest
Menopause, women's health, dermatology or lifestyle medicine. This is what shapes your private earning potential.

Your first job

Most new GPs start salaried rather than as a partner. If women's health is the aim, negotiate one dedicated women's health session from the start and build the menopause qualification alongside it.

What does a GP earn?

Salaried GPs in the UK typically earn around £73,000 to £110,000 a year full time. GP partners commonly draw £110,000 to £140,000 depending on the practice. Locum sessions run roughly £450 to £700 a session, and private women's health and menopause work is often £110 to £160 an hour.

Full UK pay ranges by setting, including NHS bands and private rates, with what actually moves the number.

GP salary guide

Common questions

How long does it take to become a GP in the UK?: About ten years from starting medical school: five years of medical degree, two foundation years, then three years of GP training.
Can an overseas doctor become a GP in the UK?: Yes, either through GMC registration and UK GP training, or by applying for entry to the GP Register through the certificate of eligibility route.
How do you become a menopause specialist GP?: Qualify as a GP, then complete recognised menopause training and build supervised caseload. Most private menopause clinics ask for that qualification explicitly.