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PLAB Examination

The Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board test is the main route for international medical graduates to demonstrate their knowledge and skills to practice medicine in the UK.

PLAB 1 Examination

PLAB 1 is an applied knowledge test (AKT) that assesses your ability to apply medical knowledge for patient care in line with UK best practices.

Exam Content

The test covers common, important, and acute conditions seen in Foundation Year 2 (F2) level practice, including:

  • Emergency department presentations
  • Management of long-term conditions in primary care
  • Clinical scenarios based on UK practice
  • Equipment routinely available in UK hospitals

Question Format

Each question begins with a clinical scenario followed by:

  • Extended matching questions
  • 'Best of five' multiple choice questions
  • Single best answer questions

Eligibility Requirements

  • Primary medical qualification recognized by the GMC
  • IELTS score of 7.5 overall (with 7.0 in all components) or OET equivalent
  • Minimum 12 months of clinical experience or internship
  • Successful completion of medical school

Exam Structure

Component Details
Format 180 multiple-choice questions
Duration 3 hours
Pass Mark Standard set using Angoff method (typically around 60%)
Test Dates March, June, September, November (four times yearly)

Preparation Resources

Official Resources:

  • GMC PLAB blueprint
  • Sample test questions from GMC website
  • Testable conditions list
  • PLAB 1 content guide

Recommended Books: PLAB 1 1700 MCQs, Oxford Handbook of Clinical Medicine, Pass Medicine PLAB

Registration Process

  1. Create a GMC Online account
  2. Book PLAB 1 test through your GMC account
  3. Prepare required documentation (qualification certificates, ID, etc.)
  4. Take the exam at your chosen test center
  5. Receive results within 6 weeks

Official PLAB 1 Guide

PLAB 2 Examination

PLAB 2 is a practical Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) assessing your clinical skills in simulated environments.

Exam Structure

  • 18 clinical stations (8 minutes each)
  • Test duration: Approximately 3 hours
  • Station types:
    • 13 scenario stations (patient encounters)
    • 5 rest stations
  • Skills assessed:
    • Clinical examinations
    • Practical procedures
    • Communication skills
    • Medical management

Assessment Areas

  • Data gathering (history taking, physical examination)
  • Clinical management (diagnosis, treatment planning)
  • Interpersonal skills (communication, professionalism)
  • Patient safety (risk assessment, consent)
  • Applied clinical knowledge

Eligibility Requirements

  • Passed PLAB 1 examination
  • Valid IELTS/OET scores (if not exempt)
  • Primary medical qualification
  • 12 months clinical experience

Test Schedule

Component Details
Test Frequency Every 2 months (6 times per year)
Location Only at GMC's Manchester Clinical Assessment Centre
Pass Mark Standard set for each station (typically ~72%)
Results Available within 6 weeks

Preparation Resources

Official Resources:

  • PLAB 2 blueprint document
  • Sample station scenarios
  • Marking criteria
  • Candidate guidance videos

Recommended Preparation: Clinical skills practice, mock OSCEs, communication skills training

Registration Process

  1. Pass PLAB 1 first
  2. Book PLAB 2 through GMC Online
  3. Select available test dates (first-come basis)
  4. Prepare travel to Manchester, UK
  5. Bring required identification documents

Official PLAB 2 Guide

Important Notes for Both Exams

PLAB 1 Key Points

  • Tests applied knowledge, not factual recall
  • Based on current UK best practices
  • No negative marking
  • Can be taken at international centers

PLAB 2 Key Points

  • Assesses real-world clinical skills
  • Uses simulated patients and scenarios
  • Tests both technical and communication skills
  • Only available in Manchester, UK

General Advice

  • Apply early as test dates fill quickly
  • Prepare using official GMC resources
  • Consider preparatory courses if needed
  • Ensure all documentation is ready beforehand