How to Become a Doctor in Europe

Requirements for becoming a European doctor are different throughout the Continent.

Becoming a medical doctor is a daunting task, regardless of the country in which you choose to practice medicine. You will have to excel as you complete a rigorous amount of school, take a thorough medical exam, and perform well as you work in the lower rungs of a practicing medical office for several years before you can make it out on your own. The exact rules and requirements for medical doctors are different throughout Europe, so make sure you follow your country's requirements exactly.

Instructions

1. Decide which country you want to practice medicine in. Some countries will grant you a license to practice in countries that are associated closely with them (such as the United Kingdom or Scandinavia), but rules are based closely on what the medical board of the particular country decides.

2. Enroll in an accredited university within your chosen country. Investigate pre-med programs, or pick a related major (such as biology). Concentrate on biology, physics and nutrition classes, and make sure to keep up a high grade-point average (GPA).

3. Enroll in an accredited medical school within your chosen country. Make sure to pursue all opportunities for hands-on experience at a hospital or medical office. You will likely have to complete a residency at an accredited medical office.

4. Pass the National Certification Exam (it may be called something different depending upon the country you are in). Different countries have different requirements. England requires passing a standardized test, while Denmark requires a three-day intensive course, which may only be taken after the applicant has received favorable marks from a medical office at which he has been a resident intern for several months.

5. Apply for certification with your country's medical board once you have passed the exam. You will have to pay an annual fee for your medical license, but that fee, again, varies from country to country.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are already a practicing doctor from another country and wish to be a doctor in a new country in Europe, the application process may be easier. You will not have to attend medical school again, but you may have to take certain courses to ensure that you pass the country's minimum requirements. Inquire with the country's medical board if this applies to you.

• Operating as a doctor without a medical license is a major violation of the law in every European country.

References

• National Board of Health: Nordic Doctors
• National Board of Health: New Registration Arrangements for Doctors Wishing to Practice Medicine in Denmark
• General Medical Council: Education and Training
• IIME: Minimum Essential Requirements and Standards in Medical Education