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PLAB Exam Fees 2025: Costs, Payment Methods & Refund Policies

Updated on 17 March, 2025

Pragya Sharma

Pragya Sharma

Sr. Content Editor

The PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) exam is a crucial test for international medical graduates (IMGs) who wish to practice medicine in the UK. It assesses whether doctors trained outside the UK have the necessary knowledge and skills to work safely in the National Health Service (NHS).

The PLAB exam is essential for IMGs who do not hold a recognized medical qualification from the UK, European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland. Passing this exam allows candidates to apply for registration with a license to practice in the UK.

Anyone who has completed a primary medical qualification from a medical school recognized by the General Medical Council (GMC) and does not have automatic recognition in the UK must take the PLAB exam. 

The PLAB exam consists of two parts:

  • PLAB 1 – A multiple-choice exam with 180 questions, lasting 3 hours, that tests medical knowledge and understanding.
  • PLAB 2 – A practical Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), lasting around 3 hours and 10 minutes, that assesses clinical and communication skills.

The PLAB exam fees vary depending on the test stage, with separate charges for PLAB 1 and PLAB 2.

Scroll down to understand the PLAB exam 2025 in detail—including its fees, eligibility, syllabus, and other key details!

Also Read: PLAB Exam Eligibility

PLAB Exam Fees 2025

The PLAB exam fees vary for each part of the test and are subject to periodic updates by the General Medical Council (GMC). Candidates must pay separate fees for PLAB 1 and PLAB 2, along with additional charges for cancellations and rescheduling.

Exam Fees for PLAB 1 & PLAB 2 (Effective from April 1, 2025):

Exam Part Fees (2025)
PLAB 1 INR 30778 (GBP 273)
PLAB 2 INR 1,12,517 (INR 998)

Note: The fees mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the currency exchange rates.

Also Read: PLAB Exam Dates

Refund Policies and Procedures for PLAB Exam Cancellations or Rescheduling

If you need to cancel or change your PLAB exam date, it's important to understand the refund rules and the applicable charges. The PLAB exam fees vary depending on when you cancel, and certain deductions will apply.

The GMC does not allow exam dates to be rescheduled. If you need to change your exam date, you must cancel your existing booking and rebook a new slot, subject to availability.

PLAB 1 Refund Policy:

  • More than 42 days before the exam – You will receive a 90% refund, with a 10% deduction.
  • 42 days or less before the exam – No refund is provided, and the full PLAB 1 exam fee will be charged.

PLAB 2 Refund Policy:

  • More than 42 days before the exam – You will get a 90% refund, with a 10% deduction.
  • Between 42 and 29 days before the exam – A 50% refund is given, and the remaining 50% is deducted.
  • 28 days or less before the exam – No refund is provided, and the full PLAB 2 exam fee will be charged.

Here is the detailed breakdown of the PLAB Exam Cancellation Fees:

Cancellation Type Fees (2025)
PLAB 1 - More than 42 days before exam (10%) INR 3077 (GBP 27.30)
PLAB 1 - 42 days or less before exam (100%) INR 30778 (GBP 273)
PLAB 2 - More than 42 days before exam (10%) INR 11251 (GBP 99.80)
PLAB 2 - Between 42 and 29 days before exam (50%) INR 56258 (GBP 499)
PLAB 2 - 28 days or less before exam (100%) INR 112517 (GBP 998)

Note: The fees mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the currency exchange rates.

Candidates should always check the GMC website for the latest fee updates before booking their exam.

Related Article: PLAB Exam Preparation

Payment Methods Accepted for PLAB Exam Fees

Paying for the PLAB exam is straightforward, and multiple payment options are available to suit different candidates. The General Medical Council (GMC) accepts both online and offline payment methods for PLAB exam fees.

1. Online Payment Options

Candidates can conveniently pay through:

  • Credit or Debit Cards – Visa, MasterCard, and Maestro are accepted. Payments can be made via GMC Online or by contacting GMC directly.
  • Internet Banking & Bank Transfers – Candidates can transfer the fee directly to the GMC’s bank account. The bank details are available on GMC Online or the printed fee bill.

2. Offline Payment Options

For candidates who prefer traditional payment methods, the GMC accepts offline payments through the following options:

  • Cheques, Bank Drafts, and Postal Orders: Payments must be made payable to the General Medical Council (GMC).
  • Mandatory Details: Candidates must write their full name and GMC reference number on the back of the cheque, bank draft, or postal order.
  • Currency Requirement: Only UK bank drafts in pounds sterling are accepted.
  • Restrictions: Post-dated cheques are not accepted under any circumstances.

After successful payment, candidates will receive:

  • An email confirmation from GMC with payment details.
  • A receipt in their GMC Online account for reference.
  • Exam slot confirmation for PLAB 1 or PLAB 2 (if available).

Candidates should check their GMC Online account to ensure the payment has been processed successfully.

Also Read: List of Countries Accepting PLAB

How to Save Money on PLAB Exam Fees?

The PLAB exam can be expensive, but with careful planning, you can reduce costs. By making smart financial decisions, you can avoid unnecessary expenses and manage your budget effectively. 

Here are some tips to help you save money on PLAB exam fees:

  • Book Early – Register for the exam as soon as possible to avoid last-minute price hikes or additional rescheduling fees.
  • Prepare Well – Study thoroughly to pass on the first attempt and avoid paying again for a retake.
  • Check Refund Policies – Be aware of GMC’s refund policy to minimize financial loss if you need to cancel or reschedule.
  • Use Affordable Study Materials – Instead of expensive coaching, consider free or low-cost online resources, mock tests, and study groups.
  • Plan Your Visa & Travel Smartly – Apply for your visa early and look for budget-friendly travel and accommodation options for PLAB 2 in the UK.
  • Look for Financial Assistance – Check if your country’s government or medical organizations offer scholarships or sponsorships for the PLAB exam.
  • Avoid Payment Issues – Ensure your payment method is valid and supports international transactions to prevent failed payments and booking delays.
  • Consider Group Study – Joining a study group can help you share resources and cut down on individual expenses for study materials.

By following these steps, you can manage your finances better and reduce the overall cost of taking the PLAB exam.

Conclusion

The PLAB exam is a significant milestone for international medical graduates aiming to practice and study in the UK. Proper planning and understanding of the PLAB exam fee, payment options, and refund policies can help candidates avoid unnecessary complications. Since rescheduling is not allowed, careful selection of exam dates is crucial. 

Additionally, being aware of cancellation fees and accepted payment methods ensures a smooth process.

By staying informed and managing their bookings through GMC Online, candidates can confidently navigate the PLAB journey and take a step closer to their medical careers in the UK.

Need guidance on studying abroad? Book a free counselling session with our experts today!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the PLAB exam cost in 2025?

The PLAB 1 exam costs INR 30,778 (GBP 273), and the PLAB 2 exam costs INR 1,12,517 (GBP 998). These fees are set by the General Medical Council (GMC) and may change each year. Check the GMC website for the latest updates before booking your exam. It is essential to plan your budget accordingly to avoid any last-minute financial issues.

Do I need to pay for PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 separately?

Yes, you must pay separately for each exam. You need to pass PLAB 1 before booking PLAB 2. Payments must be made in full when booking each exam. Ensure you have the necessary funds before registering to avoid delays in your medical licensing process.

Are there any additional charges apart from the PLAB exam fees?

Yes, there may be extra charges for cancellations, rescheduling, or rebooking. Travel, accommodation, and visa costs are also separate. Check GMC policies to avoid unexpected expenses. Planning ahead and budgeting for these additional costs will help you manage your finances better.

Can I get a refund if I cancel my PLAB exam?

Refunds depend on when you cancel. Cancel more than 42 days before, and you get 90% back. If you cancel 29-42 days before, you get 50%. After 28 days, there is no refund. It is always advisable to finalize your plans before booking to avoid unnecessary financial losses.

How can I pay my PLAB exam fees?

You can pay online using credit or debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, or Maestro). Bank transfers and internet banking are also accepted. Payments must be made in GBP (£). Ensure that your payment method allows international transactions to avoid any issues.

Can I pay the PLAB exam fees in installments?

No, the full amount must be paid at the time of booking. There is no installment option, so ensure you have sufficient funds before making the payment. Consider saving in advance to avoid financial stress when the booking opens.

Does the PLAB exam fee include VAT or other taxes?

No, the PLAB exam fee is fixed and does not include VAT or extra charges. You only pay the amount listed on the GMC website without any hidden costs. It is always a good practice to verify the total cost before proceeding with the payment.

Do I need to pay the PLAB exam fee again if I fail the test?

Yes, if you fail PLAB 1 or PLAB 2, you must pay the full fee again to retake the exam. There are no discounts for reattempts, so prepare well before appearing. Investing in quality study materials and practice tests can improve your chances of passing on the first attempt.

Are PLAB exam fees the same for all candidates, regardless of nationality?

Yes, the fees are the same for all candidates, no matter which country they are from. However, some countries may offer sponsorship programs to help with costs. It is advisable to check with your local medical council or institutions for possible financial assistance.

What happens if my PLAB exam payment fails?

If your payment fails, check if your bank allows international transactions. Try another payment method or contact your bank. If the issue continues, reach out to GMC support. Resolving payment issues quickly will help you secure your preferred exam slot without delay.

Will I get a refund if my UK visa is rejected after paying the PLAB exam fee?

No, the GMC does not provide refunds if your UK visa is rejected. It’s best to ensure your visa approval before booking PLAB 2, as it requires travel to the UK. Proper planning and early visa application can help avoid unnecessary financial losses.

Pragya Sharma

Sr. Content Editor

Pragya Sharma is a content developer and marketer with 6.5+ years of experience in the education industry. She started her career as a social media copywriter for NIELIT, Ministry of Electronics & IT, and has now scaled up as a 360-degree content professional well-versed with the intricacies of digital marketing and different forms of content used to drive and hook the target audience. She is also a co-author of 2 stories in an anthology based on the theme- women empowerment.

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