How to Become a UK Paramedic

Co-authored by wikiHow Staff

Last Updated: October 21, 2021 References

If you're someone who stays calm under pressure and has the drive to help others, training as a paramedic can lead to a fulfilling career. As a paramedic, you'll drive an ambulance and provide medical treatment to people who need it most. Here, we've gathered answers to some of your most common questions about how to become a paramedic in the UK.^{[1]
X
Research source}

Question 1

Question 1 of 10:
How do you qualify to train as a paramedic?

1
At a minimum, you need 5 GCSEs grade 4/C or higher. In addition to these grades, you also typically need to be physically fit so that you can perform the duties of a paramedic. If you're planning to enter university, you also need at least 2 A levels, one of which is a science.^{[2]
X
Research source}
- You might be able to get into a university program with a BTEC, HND, or HNC that includes science subjects or by taking a science- or health-based access course.
- Keep in mind that different universities have their own admissions standards and paramedic programs are highly competitive. The grades listed here are the bare minimum you can have and qualify for any program—having higher grades only improves your chances!
- While you can get into a student paramedic program through an ambulance trust without A levels, these programs are also highly competitive. Ambulance trusts will look for volunteer experience as a first responder and other qualifications that set you ahead of the pack.
Advertisement

Question 2

Question 2 of 10:
Do you need a driving license to become a paramedic?

1
Yes, and most employers require at least 2 years' driving experience. Even if you don't have a driving license now, employers will expect you to have a full, manual driving license once you are fully qualified to practice as a paramedic. You might also need extra classifications on your license, depending on the types of vehicles they use.^{[3]
X
Research source}
- For example, you might need qualifications to drive larger vehicles or carry passengers. The company where you work will tell you what classifications you need on your license.

Question 3

Question 3 of 10:
Do you need experience to start a training program?

1
No, but volunteer experience can help your application stand out. The admissions process is extremely competitive, so every little bit helps! Volunteering as a first responder with a charity, such as St John Ambulance or British Red Cross, can give you a leg up.^{[4]
X
Research source}
- Getting certified in first aid is also valuable. You'll need these skills as a paramedic anyway, and getting certified gives you experience in some of the situations you'll face as a paramedic.
Advertisement

Question 4

Question 4 of 10:
Can you become a paramedic without going to university?

1
No, as of September 1, 2021, you need a degree to become a paramedic. There are 2 routes you can take to get your degree. You can either go to university full-time or join a student paramedic program with an ambulance service and study while you work.^{[5]
X
Research source}
- Ambulance services typically only open their programs every couple of years and the competition can be very stiff. However, this is a good option if you don't have the grades to enter a university program.
- When you start a program, you'll be eligible for at least £5,000 a year to help cover your living expenses and fund your studies. This money is offered as a grant and doesn't have to be repaid, even if you don't complete your course of study.^{[6]
  X
  Research source}

Question 5

Question 5 of 10:
How long does it take to become a paramedic?

1
University courses take between 2 and 4 years if you attend full time. If you're working as a student paramedic while attending school, it could take you longer—although you'll have experience to go along with your education. After you finish your course of study and register, you can start practicing as a paramedic.^{[7]
X
Research source}
- Most paramedic degree programs offer a mixture of practice and education, so you can experience what it's like to work as a paramedic before you're fully trained and registered.
Advertisement

Question 6

Question 6 of 10:
What's the easiest way to find a job as a paramedic?

1
Search the NHS jobs website to find open paramedic positions. Go to https://www.jobs.nhs.uk/ and type "paramedic" in the space for keywords. Then, add the location where you want to work. When you hit "Search," you can browse open positions in that area and further refine or expand your search as necessary.
- The NHS isn't the only employer of paramedics in the UK. Local job boards also display positions available at clinics and urgent care centers.^{[8]
  X
  Research source}
- If you got your Bachelor's at a university, your university's paramedic program also has resources to help you find a job—take advantage of them!

Question 7

Question 7 of 10:
Do you need to register to practice as a paramedic?

1
Yes, you have to register with the HCPC. Download the application packet online at https://www.hcpc-uk.org/registration/getting-on-the-register/uk-applications/uk-application-forms/. Read the guidance notes included in the application packet carefully before you fill it out.^{[9]
X
Research source}
- Along with your application, include certified copies of the documents specified. If your documents are in a language other than English, get them translated and include a certificate from the translator.
- Note that, as of 2021, the HCPC is only taking applications submitted by email to correspond with UK government measures dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.^{[10]
  X
  Research source}
- If you completed your paramedic training outside the UK, go to https://www.hcpc-uk.org/registration/getting-on-the-register/international-applications/ and download the international application package.
Advertisement

Question 8

Question 8 of 10:
How much does it cost to register?

1
As of 2021, the scrutiny fee to process your application is £63. This fee is non-refundable regardless of the decision HCPC makes on your application. In addition to the scrutiny fee, you must also pay the registration fee of £180 for the 2-year registration cycle. If the HCPC denies your application, they'll refund your registration fee.^{[11]
X
Research source}
- The HCPC reduces the registration fee by 50% if you completed a UK-approved paramedic training program within the last 2 years.
- Your registration fee covers 2 professional years. The professional year for paramedics runs from 1 September to 31 August. You'll be refunded your payment for any portion of the first year that has already passed.
- If your registration isn't approved, the HCPC will refund your registration fee. Give them at least 10 days to process your application, then check the register online for your name.

Question 9

Question 9 of 10:
How many hours does a paramedic work?

1
Most paramedics work around 37.5 hours per week. Your weekly schedule might include nights, weekends, and bank holidays. However, if you work for the NHS, you'll have access to 27 days of annual leave that you can use when you need time off.^{[12]
X
Research source}
- If you work in the private sector, your schedule might be different. For example, if you work at an urgent care clinic that isn't open on weekends, you wouldn't ever be working on weekends.
Advertisement

Question 10

Question 10 of 10:
How much do paramedics earn?

1
As of 2021, NHS paramedics earn a starting salary of £24,907.^{[13]
X
Research source} Paramedics are paid on the Agenda for Change (AFC) pay system starting on band 5. After 2 years, you'll be eligible for band 6.^{[14]
X
Research source}
- If you get a job in the private sector, your pay might vary depending on your employer and the work you do for them. However, most paramedics in the private sector get paid at least what NHS paramedics do.

Warnings

Starting September 1, 2021, you must have a "Bachelor degree with honors" to register as a paramedic. This change doesn't affect you if you're already in an approved training program or apprenticeship—you'll still be able to register upon completion.^{[15]
X
Research source}

Thanks!
Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0