The Entry Clearance Officer (or the ECO) is the person who is responsible for checking if you qualify for entry to the UK. This article will discuss how you can convince the ECO that you deserve to get your visa.
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What The ECO Will Look For
It is very important to understand on what basis the ECO will make a decision regarding your visa clearance.
A) That you're a genuine candidate The ECO wants to know if you’re a genuine candidate for PLAB 2 examination or if you have other motives for coming to the UK. 1. Career Outlook 2. PLAB 1 Result 3. PLAB 2 Booking 4. GMC Reference Number B) That you have sufficient funds The ECO wants to know if you can finance your trip, without asking for any financial help from the UK Government. Show sufficient funds in the bank account. Show documentary evidence to prove that this money was earned legally. I’ve discussed Finances in detail here. C) That you will return within the specified frame of time The ECO wants to make sure that you will leave the UK at the end of your trip. 1. Employment 2. Family Ties 3. Exam Booking 4. Savings, Properties, Other IncomeHow to convince the ECO?
Mention details of your career journey to show how much time, effort and money you’ve invested on your career. Be very generous with this information. Do not hold back any piece of information that might show your dedication towards your career. Show that PLAB is just a part of your journey in becoming a better doctor.
Attach your PLAB 1 result to show that you’ve already taken part 1 of the exam.
Mention the fact that GMC is expecting to see you on your exam date, which is a proof enough that you’re a genuine candidate. Also mention that if your ECO wants, he can call the GMC to confirm this piece of information.
It doesn’t hurt to attach your GMC Reference Number documentation, just to show that you’re a genuine candidate.How to convince the ECO?
How to convince the ECO?
Mention the fact that you work and you’re traveling to the UK on a leave of absence from work. If you have a training job, you can write how difficult it is to get a training post; how hundreds of candidates apply for it and only a few are selected. So it is very important and you wouldn’t give up on it.
Mention all your family that you’re leaving behind. Mention your bonds with them. It’s okay if you’re not married and you don’t have kids. Mention how special your bond is with your parents and siblings. If you’re married or have kids, that’ll improve your chances of getting a visa.
If possible, make a post-graduation exam booking in your home country; this would also show a motive to leave the UK after your PLAB exam.
If you have any of the above, you can mention them, along with proof of ownership to show your ties to your home country.