Education & Training
The Sri Lanka Medical Council plays a central role in ensuring that healthcare professionals in Sri Lanka are educated and trained to the highest standards.
Minimum Standards for Medical Education
Gazette Notifications
The Minimum Standards for Medical Education are stipulated in the gazette notifications listed below.
Extraordinary Gazette No. 2055/54
Friday, January 26, 2018
Extraordinary Gazette No. 2155/15
Thursday, December 26, 2019
Extraordinary Gazette No. 2222/69
Saturday, April 10, 2021
Recognised Institutions
Only graduates of SLMC-recognised institutions are eligible to register and practise medicine in Sri Lanka. Always verify recognition before enrolling — local or overseas.
Medicine & Surgery
12 institutionsFaculty of Medicine, University of Colombo
MBBSOldest medical faculty in Sri Lanka.
Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya
MBBSAffiliated to Teaching Hospital Peradeniya.
Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya
MBBSRagama campus — affiliated to North Colombo Teaching Hospital.
Faculty of Medicine, University of Sri Jayewardenepura
MBBSNugegoda — affiliated to Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital.
Faculty of Medicine, University of Jaffna
MBBSAffiliated to Teaching Hospital Jaffna.
Faculty of Medicine, University of Ruhuna
MBBSAffiliated to Teaching Hospital Karapitiya.
Faculty of Medicine & Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka
MBBSAffiliated to Teaching Hospital Anuradhapura.
Faculty of Healthcare Sciences, Eastern University of Sri Lanka
MBBSFaculty of Medicine, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka
MBBSFaculty of Medicine, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
MBBSFaculty of Medicine, University of Moratuwa
MBBSFaculty of Medicine, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University
MBBSDentistry
1 institutionFaculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya
BDSThe only state dental faculty in Sri Lanka — affiliated to the Dental Teaching Hospital, Peradeniya.
Allied Health Sciences
3 institutionsFaculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Peradeniya
BSc Allied Health SciencesProgrammes in physiotherapy, medical laboratory science, radiography, and occupational therapy.
Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura
BSc Allied Health SciencesPhysiotherapy, medical laboratory sciences, and nursing science programmes.
Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Ruhuna
BSc Allied Health SciencesPhysiotherapy, medical laboratory, and radiography programmes.
Students are advised to verify that their chosen university is recognised by SLMC for medical education prior to commencing studies, regardless of whether their programme is self-funded or supported by a government scholarship.
Search Recognised Degree Programmes
Search SLMC's database of recognised foreign medical & dental degree programmes by institution, country, or degree.
Internship
Medical Internship Training Programme
Internship Process
Dental Internship Training Programme
Internship Process
Examination to Register to Practise Medicine (ERPM)
ERPM in Sri Lanka is conducted by the Sri Lanka Medical Council (SLMC) for citizens of Sri Lanka who have obtained their medical qualification from medical schools overseas. This examination is prescribed in terms of Act No.16 of 1965 and Section 29(I)(b)(ii)(cc) of the Medical Ordinance. It was previously referred to as the Act 16 Examination. The candidates should possess an MBBS or equivalent degree from a medical school recognized by the SLMC, to be eligible to sit this examination. Passing the ERPM enables them to apply for Provisional Registration with the SLMC.
Purpose of Examinations
SLMC examinations are designed to:
- Ensure that practitioners meet the minimum standards required for safe practice
- Assess clinical knowledge, skills, and professional judgement
- Maintain consistency in the quality of healthcare professionals entering the workforce
- Protect patients and uphold public trust
Types of Examinations
Examination for Registration to Practise Medicine (ERPM)
The ERPM is conducted for medical graduates who have obtained their primary medical qualification from institutions outside Sri Lanka.
The Examination Assesses
- Basic medical sciences
- Clinical knowledge and decision-making
- Practical and clinical skills
Successful completion of the ERPM is required for eligibility to obtain registration to practise medicine in Sri Lanka.
Examination for Registration to Practise Dental Surgery (ERPDS)
The ERPDS is conducted for dental graduates with foreign qualifications.
The Examination Evaluates
- Core dental knowledge
- Clinical competence
- Professional standards required for dental practice
Passing this examination is required for registration to practise dentistry in Sri Lanka.
Structure of Examinations
SLMC examinations may include:
- Written examinations (MCQ, structured questions)
- Clinical examinations (OSCE / OSPE)
- Practical assessments
- Oral examinations (viva voce), where applicable
The structure is designed to assess both theoretical knowledge and practical competence.
Eligibility
Candidates must meet the eligibility criteria specified by the Sri Lanka Medical Council, which may include:
- Possession of a recognised primary qualification
- Submission of required documentation
- Compliance with application procedures and deadlines
Standards and Fairness
The Sri Lanka Medical Council ensures that examinations are:
- Conducted in a fair, transparent, and objective manner
- Aligned with national and international standards
- Regularly reviewed and updated to reflect current medical practice
Outcomes
Successful candidates may proceed with the process of registration, subject to fulfilling all other requirements.
Unsuccessful candidates may reapply in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Council.
Importance of Examinations
SLMC examinations play a vital role in:
- Ensuring patient safety
- Maintaining professional standards
- Standardising the competence of practitioners entering the healthcare system
Further Information
Detailed information regarding examination schedules, application procedures, syllabi, and guidelines is available through the Sri Lanka Medical Council.
ERPM BookletImportant — Verify Before You Enrol
Students are advised to verify that their chosen university is recognised by the Sri Lanka Medical Council (SLMC) for medical education prior to commencing studies, regardless of whether their programme is self-funded or supported by a government scholarship.