Physiotherapy Licensure Guide for UK Graduates ( United Kingdom )
Thinking about studying physiotherapy in the UK and working later on? This guide explains what you’ll need after graduation to become a fully licensed physiotherapist in the UK.
Regulatory Authority:
In the UK, physiotherapists are regulated by the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC). (Additionally, many join the professional body, the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP), but CSP membership is optional and not a licensing requirement.) To legally use the title “Physiotherapist” or practice in the UK, you must be registered with the HCPC.
Recognition of UK Credentials:
Upon completing the BSc (or pre-reg MSc/MSci) in physiotherapy, the graduate is eligible to apply to the HCPC for registration. The HCPC will verify that the qualification is on the list of approved programs (virtually all UK university physio courses are). There is no additional exam needed for UK graduates – the university’s final exams and clinical placements are considered sufficient.
Exams or Additional Requirements:
No licensing exam is required beyond completing the degree.
Language Requirements: The HCPC’s English language requirements are considered met if the applicant’s physiotherapy qualification was taught and examined in English. A UK degree satisfies this by definition, so no IELTS/TOEFL is needed for these graduates.
If you hold full HCPC registration, meaning you can work as a physiotherapist anywhere in the UK (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland). No further steps are needed for permanent licensure; you just renew your registration every two years and meet continuing professional development (CPD) requirements.