Anaesthetist

To become an anaesthetist, you'll need to complete:

• a 5-year degree in medicine from a medical school recognised by the General Medical Council
• a 2-year foundation programme of general training
• specialist training which can take 7 to 8 years

You might be able to do a foundation year before starting a medical degree. This will depend on your circumstances and what qualifications you hold.

If you already have a degree, you could take a 4-year graduate entry route into medicine.

There is a lot of competition for places, so it's important to check the entry requirements of medical schools before you apply.

Entry tests

When you apply for a course in medicine, you may be asked to take the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) .

It tests for skills you'll need on the course, such as:

• critical thinking
• problem solving
• data analysis
• decision making

Work experience

Medical schools will expect you to have some relevant paid or voluntary work experience. The British Medical Association provides information on how to find a placement .

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science

• 3 A levels, or equivalent, including biology and chemistry

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
• university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/
• University Clinical Aptitude Test|https://www.ucat.ac.uk/

You may be able to apply for a place on a Doctor Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship, if you're working in a healthcare setting.

This takes 5 years to do and you would need the support of your employer to apply.

On successful completion, you could progress to the 2-year foundation training programme, then move on to specialist training.

Entry requirements

Employers will set their own entry requirements.

Registrations

you'll need to register with the General Medical Council

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.

Professional and Industry Bodies

You could join the British Medical Association for advice, resources and professional development opportunities.

Further Information

You can find more details on how to become an anaesthetist from the Royal College of Anaesthetists and Health Careers .

As an anaesthetist, you could:

• assess patients' suitability for anaesthetics
• reassure patients and explain the risks and side effects of anaesthesia
• attend pre-operation briefings with surgeons and theatre staff
• work out the type and level of anaesthetic needed
• monitor patients during an operation and respond to any issues
• offer pain relief, for instance during childbirth
• support medical teams like cardiac arrest or trauma
• provide services for people living with chronic pain

You could work in an NHS or private hospital.

Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding.

You may need to wear a uniform.