Medical Electives Abroad | Projects Abroad UK

Are you researching your medical elective placement options? You've got a lot to consider!

One big question is whether to stay put or go overseas. And if you do travel, should you go it alone or with an organisation?

At Projects Abroad, we've been helping students like you with overseas healthcare electives for decades. But we also know that everyone's different. What matters most is finding the elective placement that's perfect for you.

To help you decide, we've put together some key things to think about. Read on for our advice on making the right choice.

View medical elective bursary options here or skip straight to our Elective Placements.

Your Elective: A World of Opportunity

Your elective is a chance to delve into your passions and gain experience that will shape your future career.

Choosing an overseas elective takes this opportunity to the next level. Here's how:

1. Broaden Clinical Experience:

Exposure to different healthcare systems: Witnessing how healthcare is delivered in a different country provides a unique perspective and a deeper understanding of global health challenges.
Encounter diverse cases: You might encounter diseases and conditions rarely seen in the UK, expanding your clinical knowledge and diagnostic skills.
Witness alternative approaches: Observe different medical practices, techniques, and resource management strategies.

2. Enhance Cultural Awareness:

Immersion in a new culture: Experience a new way of life, gain a global perspective, and develop cultural sensitivity, which is crucial in healthcare.
Improved communication skills: Navigating a new environment and interacting with patients from diverse backgrounds enhances your communication and interpersonal skills.

3. Boost Career Prospects:

Stand out from the crowd: An overseas elective demonstrates adaptability, resourcefulness, and a commitment to global health, making you a more competitive candidate.
Networking opportunities: Build connections with healthcare professionals and researchers from around the world.
Personal and professional growth: Develop independence, resilience, and problem-solving skills while navigating unfamiliar situations.

4. Personal Development:

Increased self-confidence: Stepping outside your comfort zone and completing an elective abroad boosts self-belief and confidence.
Language skills: Improve existing language skills or learn a new language, which can be valuable in your future career.
Travel and adventure: Combine your elective with travel and explore a new part of the world.

5. Contribute to Global Health:

Make a difference: Some students choose electives in low-resource settings, where they can contribute their skills and support communities in need.
Gain a deeper understanding of global health issues: Experience firsthand the challenges and inequalities in healthcare access and delivery across the globe.

Read what Katherine H, a nursing elective who went to Sri Lanka has to say about her experience:

“It was incredible to learn about the differences between healthcare in Sri Lanka and in the UK. I hadn’t realised how much I had taken away from this nursing experience until I was back in practice in the UK; I am so glad that I had the opportunity to learn in this limited-resource setting, it has been invaluable for my practice.”

View Elective options >.

Students doing their medical electives abroad spend time bonding with local medical professionals.

Why Choose a Provider for Your Overseas Elective?

Planning an overseas elective can feel like a juggling act. There's a lot to consider, from securing placements and sorting visas to finding accommodation and navigating a new culture.

Using a specialist provider like Projects Abroad can make a world of difference.

Here's why:

Save time and stress: We handle the logistics so you can focus on what matters most - your elective experience.
Guaranteed placements: We've built strong relationships with hospitals and clinics worldwide, ensuring you have a placement waiting for you.
Expert support: Our dedicated team provides guidance and assistance from pre-departure preparation to in-country support.
Safety and security: We prioritise your wellbeing with comprehensive risk assessments, fully vetted and trained staff, and 24/7 in-country support.
Cultural immersion: We provide cultural awareness training and an in-country orientation to help you settle in and maximise your experience.
Ethical and responsible travel: We're committed to sustainable practices and supporting local communities.

Choosing a provider like Projects Abroad gives you peace of mind and lets you focus on what truly matters - gaining valuable experience and making a difference.

We also offer:

Tailored placements: We'll find the perfect fit for your interests and goals.
Flexible dates: Choose a placement that suits your schedule, from 2 to 12 weeks.
Expert supervision: A dedicated English-speaking doctor to supervise and support your elective.
Specialisation options: Focus on your chosen area or rotate through different departments.
Diverse settings: Gain experience in hospitals, healthcare clinics, and community outreach programs.
Global connections: Meet medical students from all over the world.