How to become GP
You can get into this job through a university course or an apprenticeship.
University
To become a GP you'll need to complete:
- a degree recognised by the General Medical Council which takes 5 years
- a foundation course of general training which takes 2 years
- general practice specialist training which takes 3 years
If you already have a degree in a science subject, you could do a postgraduate degree in medicine which takes 4 years.
If you do not have any science qualifications, you might be able to do a degree in medicine which takes 6 years and includes a pre-medical year.
Entry tests
When you apply for a course in medicine, you may be asked to take the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT).
You'll be tested on skills like critical thinking, problem solving, data analysis, communication and scientific knowledge.
Work experience
Medical schools will also expect you to have some paid or voluntary work experience in healthcare.
You can get information on how to get medical work experience from the British Medical Association.
You could also use Observe GP which is a free online alternative to work experience created by the Royal College of General Practitioners.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- at least 5 GCSEs grades 9 to 7 (A* or A), including English maths and sciences
- 3 A levels, or equivalent, including biology and chemistry
More Information
Apprenticeship
You might be able to do a doctor degree apprenticeship which will take around 5 years to complete.
The apprenticeship is recognised by the General Medical Council.
You could then progress to the foundation course of general training before completing the specialist training in general practice.
Entry requirements
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
More Information
More Information
Registration
- after your training you'll need to join the General Medical Council GP Register, and apply for a licence to practise as a doctor
Career tips
The General Medical Council has a guide on what it means to be a good doctor. You might find this useful when preparing for medical school interviews.
You can use online resources to find out more about the types of interviews you can expect to get into for medical school.
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the British Medical Association for professional development and training opportunities.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a GP from Health Careers and the Royal College of General Practitioners.