Sponsored training for International Medical Graduates

The Medical Training Initiative (MTI) gives international medical graduates the chance to spend up to two years training in the NHS.
It is with regret that we are unable to accept any new applications for MTI. The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh has been informed that the funding from NHSE for the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges to administer visa sponsorship, has ceased from 31 March 2026, which means that we are unable to accept any new applications for MTI places. Potential developments for any replacement programme will be announced here when new information is available. Please note this does not affect any doctors currently working in MTI placements, whose employment will continue as normal.

For further information regarding the decision to discontinue funding for the GAE/Tier 5 visa sponsorship associated with the MTI scheme, please visit the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges website.

"Participation in the MTI was the best thing that has happened to me in my career."

10 reasons to take part

Gain up to two years of structured training in the UK plus free RCPE membership for the duration of your post with benefits including full access to our online Education portal, providing hundreds of hours of clinical and non-clinical content and resources
A skilled team at RCPE providing specialised support and guidance at all stages of the process - supporting you and the NHS
1 free complimentary RCPE symposia in your specialty per year of MTI
Build experience in UK clinical practice and healthcare systems
Free e-Portolio account, allowing you to record professional achievements, progress and training plans
Enhance your career opportunities and professional development internationally
Regular MTI surveys, empowering you to feed back on your experience and post
Free RCPE MTI certificate for all MTI Trainees on successful completion of their post
Assigned Mentor for the duration of the MTI post
Free resources to support your communication skills

"I always felt supported and had access to excellent clinical and educational opportunities"

"A truly rewarding experience – I gained hands on training in a supportive NHS environment"

MTI Trainee Doctors

About the Medical Training Initiative

The Medical Training Initiative (MTI) gives international medical graduates the chance to spend up to two years training in the NHS. Through the scheme, you can gain hands-on experience in UK hospitals, develop your clinical practice, and contribute directly to patient care. As an official MTI sponsor, the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh will guide you through the essential steps.

If successful, we will sponsor your GMC registration and visa, or support your NHS Board or Trust in applying for the most appropriate visa route. Alongside this, you’ll have access to ongoing advice and support to help you adapt to life and work in the UK.

We aim to tailor each training plan to your educational and career objectives, helping you gain the skills and experience that will support the work you plan to undertake in your home country.

It is with regret that we are unable to accept any new applications for MTI. The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh has been informed that the scheme, run by the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, with the support of funding from NHSE to administer visa sponsorship, has ceased from 31 March 2026, which means that we are unable to accept any new applications for MTI places. Potential developments for any replacement programme will be announced here when new information is available. Please note this does not affect any doctors currently working in MTI placements, whose employment will continue as normal.

MTI - How to Apply