How to maximize your chances of getting selected for the MTI / Scholarship Program?

Since this program is gaining popularity the number of candidates have also started to increase. So how can you maximize your chances of getting selected and pursue your dream to continue training in UK.

• CV : You need to start work on that, build up your CV. Do research, publications. Make a decent looking CV that can neatly show your achievements. The experience that you have had. Electives and Observerships in different hospitals, countries. Posters  sessions  workshops anything that can show your interest towards the medical field and that can make you stand out.
• Exams : If you have given any extra exams mention them in your CV and interview. MRCP exams helps a lot. If you have given them or planning to let them know. In fact you should aim to get MRCP even if you don't plan to go to UK it's an added degree and it's benefits are quite a lot.
• IELTS : Though it may not be required to land you an interview but if you have it can single handedly determine the outcome of your interview. If you don't have it by the interview time make sure you atleast have a date so you can let them know that you are serious about giving it as your first priority. Although CPSP has changed it rules and want IELTS in hand at the time of application. 
• CPSP log book : This is one way you can show how well have you been doing in your residency make sure its complete have variety of good cases and procedures. The delegates may go through your logbook to have an idea of what kind of experience you have had over the past 2 years.
• Intermediate Module : As the requirements say you need IMM. So if you are IMM Eligible you are good to go. If you have cleared theory that's great and if you have completed IMM that's the ideal case.
• FCPS II : If you are almost eligible for Part II exam I would recommend you to clear your it and then apply. There are multiple benefits. You will given a senior fellow post in your preferred specialty with ease, you will be free from CPSP part II rules, Scholarship will be higher, you will quickly be allowed to do major invasive procedures by showing off your skills learned in Pakistan. 
• Be in good standing with the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan. Have all your dues cleared. Make sure CPSP has no issues with you, your rtmc, your logbook or any other stuff

Well prepared for the Interview: This is the make or break step achieving your goal. When they ask tell me about yourself this is the point where you need to sell your self, basically why should they select you. Make sure you are well versed Acute Medical Emergencies and their management. Try to go over the UK guidelines (NICE) in order to impress them. Practice some cases of the specialty you have been applying. You will need have some command over the common ethical scenarios.

Ask your queries in a way that showcases your interest. You will be getting opportunity to train in UK they are obliging you so please don't act as if they owe you something. Direct CPSP and RTMC related questions to CPSP officials sitting in the interview as they will be more likely be able to answer them

Research : Do some research about the hospital that you will be working at. This will be show some genuine interest. You can say stuff like "I have read that the hospital has access this.... this.... facility which I am excited to learn more about..." or " the faculty of this.... this... Department look really competent it would be an honor to work with them". If you have read something negative about the hospital or the training formulate the question in a way that you can get your point through but the same time show that it doesn't bother you or distracts you from working at that hospital.

Attitude : Maintain a humble attitude throughout the interview and through all this process as it can be challenging and stressful at times but remember no pain no gain.

Money : Please don't ask how much salary you will get because 1st of all its a scholarship not salary, 2nd you will be training not working, 3rd it can leave a very bad impression if not asked in a proper way please don't let it portray it any way that you are only interested in money.

So there you go follow these guidelines in order to maximize your chances of getting selected. Good luck!! 

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