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Consultation on English language proficiency for international applicants - analysis and decisions

Between 16 October 2023 and 19 January 2024, we consulted on several proposals to change the types of evidence we would accept from applicants using our international route to join the register.

Our proposals would end the current option some applicants have to self-declare English as their first language, and replace this with several alternative ways to evidence their proficiency.

We informed a range of stakeholders about the consultation including professional bodies, employers, and education and training providers. We advertised the consultation on our website, social media, and issued a press notice.

We received 526 responses to our consultation and would like to thank everyone who took the time to respond.

Related documents

The consultation outcome document summarises the responses we received to our consultation and our decisions as a result. This document:

  • Explains how we handled and analysed the responses we received, providing overall statistics relating to the responses.
  • Provides a high-level summary of the responses we received.
  • Provides a thematic summary of responses received an outlines general comments received in response to the consultation proposals.

In addition, we have provided an Equalities Impact Assessment (EIA), which was informed by consultation responses. This document:

  • Provides a detailed outline of the decisions we have taken and how we have responded to the consultation feedback received, and includes an analysis of the equalities and other impacts relating to our decisions.

We have also published a report on focus group work we commissioned from the Patients Association. This document:

  • Summarises the views and experiences of service users and carers, and their feedback on our proposals.
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