Thinking about becoming a doctor in the UK? The Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) examination is your doorway to fulfilling your dream. PLAB exam is tailored for international medical graduates (IMGs), to assess their competencies and qualifications to practice medicine in the UK.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the PLAB exam in 2025. Read on to know more.
The Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Exam is your pathway to a secure medical career in the United Kingdom (UK). Designed for international medical graduates, the PLAB exam assesses the knowledge and skills needed to work as a doctor in the UK. It has two parts:
PLAB 1 – A written test with 180 multiple-choice questions based on real medical scenarios. This test is available worldwide.
PLAB 2 – A practical exam held in the UK, using the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) format to assess clinical and communication skills through patient simulations.
Passing both exams is required to register with the General Medical Council (GMC) and start your medical career in the UK.
The PLAB exam syllabus covers what overseas doctors need to know to work in the UK. It is updated regularly to reflect healthcare changes.
PLAB 1: Tests basic medical knowledge with multiple-choice questions.
PLAB 2: Assesses clinical and communication skills through simulated patient scenarios.
Who Can Take the PLAB Exam: Eligibility Criteria
To take the PLAB exam and practice medicine in the UK, international and Indian medical graduates must meet GMC eligibility criteria as mentioned below:
Medical Qualification – A degree from a medical college or university listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools and recognized by the GMC.
English Proficiency – Minimum IELTS score of 7.0 in each language skill and a minimum of 7.5 overall in IELTS or Grade B in OET or Occupational English Test.
Internship – At least one year of internship in their home country or where the degree was obtained is also necessary.
PLAB 1 Exam: Format, Syllabus, and How to Prepare
The PLAB 1 (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) exam is the first step for international medical graduates (IMGs) aiming to practice medicine in the UK. Conducted by the General Medical Council (GMC), this multiple-choice exam assesses a candidate’s ability to apply medical knowledge in real-world scenarios.
This section will cover the exam format, key syllabus topics, and essential preparation strategies to help you succeed in PLAB 1.
PLAB 1 Syllabus
The PLAB 1 exam tests your ability to apply medical knowledge in clinical scenarios commonly encountered in UK hospitals. The syllabus covers a wide range of medical disciplines, ensuring candidates are well-versed in essential topics.
PLAB 1 Key Topics Include:
Clinical Medicine
Surgery
Pediatrics
Psychiatry
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Ethics & Professionalism
The table below presents the detailed syllabus and essential topics for the PLAB 1 exam:
Subject
Topics
Child health
Congenital abnormalities
Developmental problems
Failure to thrive
Digestive
Abdominal mass
Abdominal pain
Anorexia and weight loss
Facial pain and swelling
Jaundice
Lower GI symptoms
Upper GI symptoms
Nutrition
Blood and lymph
Abnormal blood film
Bruising/ bleeding/ purpura
Generalised enlarged lymph nodes
Cardiovascular
Chest pain
Fatigue
Heart murmur
Hypertension
Palpitations
Peripheral arterial disease
Peripheral oedema, breathlessness
Peripheral venous problems
Endocrine
Abnormal blood sugar
General endocrine disorder
Thyroid abnormalities
Eye
Eye pain
Orbital swelling
Red eye
Visual impairment
Infectious disease
Serious infection
Travel medicine and tropical infections
Viral infections
ENT
Ear ache
Hearing problems
Hoarseness and/or stridor
Nasal symptoms
Vertigo
Mental health
Alcohol and drug disorder
Anxiety
Self-harm
Eating disorders
Learning and communication problems
Confusion
Personality and behavioral disorders
Psychosis
Note: The PLAB syllabus is updated periodically to align with changes in medical practice, guidelines, and patient care standards in the UK. It’s important for candidates to regularly check the GMC website for the latest syllabus updates before preparing for the exam.
To Prepare for the PLAB 1 exam, start by understanding the exam structure. PLAB 1 tests your ability to apply medical knowledge in real-life scenarios. Each exam has 180 multiple-choice questions to assess both your knowledge and decision-making skills under pressure. Knowing the format and question types will help you focus on the most important topics during your preparation.
Here are some tips:
Set your goals and plan a schedule to prepare for PLAB 1
Make the most use of the right study materials at your disposal
You can avail of the GMC’s Official PLAB Blueprint which covers all topics
Practice MCQs daily
Ensure to follow the guidelines of UK study patterns
Practice Mock exams
You may join PLAB study groups
Stay abreast with PLAB-related information
Stay healthy
PLAB 2 Exam: Format, Syllabus, and How to Prepare
PLAB 2 is a practical, OSCE-based exam that tests clinical, communication, and decision-making skills in medical graduates in real-life scenarios. Unlike PLAB 1, PLAB 2 can only be taken in the UK and is available year-round, except in August and late December. Exam dates can be viewed in your GMC Online account after clearing PLAB 1.
The PLAB 2 exam consists of 16 scenarios, each lasting 8 minutes, simulating real-life settings like mock consultations or acute wards. It follows the Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE) format and meets Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements.
PLAB 2 Syllabus
The PLAB 2 syllabus is based on UK medical school textbooks. It covers topics like multicultural awareness, medical science, disease processes, health promotion, legal ethics, evidence-based medicine, and epidemiology.
Key Areas Covered in PLAB 2:
History Taking & Diagnosis
Clinical Examination
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Ethics and Professionalism
Practical Skills
Prescribing and Patient Management
The table below presents the detailed syllabus and essential topics for the PLAB 2 exam:
Subject
Topic
Clinical Examination
Ability to conduct physical examinations of patients
Competent in carrying out a basic physical examination
Maintain records
Ability to treat a patient
Practical Skills
BP check
Venepuncture
Inserting a cannula
Giving injections
Adding drugs to injections
Communication Skills
Explaining the diagnosis
Investigating
Treatment
Including patient in decision making
Communication with relatives
Communicating with other healthcare professionals
Giving instructions
History Taking
Candidates should be competent in taking a history from patients with the following diseases:
To prepare for PLAB 2, you need to choose a PLAB 2 date and decide on a PLAB 2 course. Next, you can book the PLAB 2 exam from GMC online and start preparing for your UK Visit visa.
Here are some tips:
Set your goals and plan a schedule to prepare for PLAB 2
Understand the exam format and what you need to cover
Study for the PLAB 2 syllabus as stated in the table above
You may join a PLAB 2 academy or use online platforms
Work on your communication skills
Practice common medical procedures practically
Study the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines for disease management
To register for the PLAB exam, candidates first need to check their eligibility for the exam. Once they ensure to meet the PLAB exam eligibility criteria, they can create a GMC online account.
Here’s the process to create a GMC Online Account:
Visit the GMC official website.
Click ‘Create an Account’.
Fill in the required details and submit the online form.
Check your email for a verification link.
Click on the link to confirm your email ID.
Once you create an online account, the next step is to book the PLAB 1 Exam.
Log in to your created GMC online account using your login credentials.
Go to the ‘My Tests’ section to see available PLAB 1 dates and locations.
Select a convenient date and location.
Check that your name, GMC reference number, test location, and date are correct before booking.
After clearing PLAB 1, book the PLAB 2 exam.
Log in to GMC Online and select a PLAB 2 exam date, which is held in the UK
After clearing PLAB 2, you can apply for GMC Registration
PLAB Exam Dates and Locations 2025
The PLAB 1 exam takes place four times a year in February, May, August, and November. Here are the expected 2025 dates:
Feb 20, 2025
May 22, 2025
Aug 7, 2025
Nov 6, 2025
However, these dates may vary as per the notifications of the General Medical Council (GMC).
The PLAB 1 exam is available both in the UK and internationally, allowing candidates to take it from a convenient location. However, the PLAB 2 exam is conducted only in the UK.
PLAB Exam Fee: Registration and Cancellation Fees
The PLAB exam is divided into two parts and both have a separate PLAB exam fee charge:
PLAB 1 exam fee - INR 26,000 or GBP 255
PLAB 2 exam fee - INR 95,268 or GBP 934
PLAB 1 Cancellation Charges:
Full refund if canceled 28 days before the exam.
No refund if canceled less than 28 days before the exam.
PLAB 2 Cancellation Charges:
Full refund if canceled 42 days before the exam.
No refund if canceled less than 42 days before the exam.
Common Challenges in taking the PLAB Exam and How to Overcome them?
The common challenges faced by students preparing for the PLAB exam are:
Challenge 1: Managing time to cover the extensive syllabus
How to Overcome:
Follow a comprehensive study plan.
Prefer study materials like NICE guidelines and PLAB question banks.
Set study goals to stay on track
Challenge 2: Covering the 180 MCQs in PLAB 1
How to Overcome:
Practice past papers and question banks.
Learn time management techniques
Focus on clinical reasoning technique
Challenge 3: Practical Skills & OSCE Format through 16 OSCE stations in PLAB 2
How to Overcome:
Join an academy for hands-on training.
Practice to improve confidence.
Concentrate on effective communication and empathy towards patients
What Happens After Taking the PLAB Exam?
When you pass the PLAB exam, you become eligible to apply for registration with a license to practice medicine in the UK. You must complete your GMC registration within two years of passing PLAB 2.
After PLAB 1:
Results released in ~4 weeks – Check your GMC account for updates.
Pass → Book PLAB 2 (OSCE-based clinical exam).
Fail → You can retake PLAB 1 (maximum four attempts).
After PLAB 2:
Pass → Apply for GMC registration with a license to practice.
Receive GMC approval → You can work as a doctor in the UK (NHS).
Start in an FY2-equivalent role → Gain experience before progressing further.
If You Can’t Clear PLAB 2 in the First Attempt:
PLAB 2 can be retaken up to four times.
Review feedback and improve weak areas before reattempting.
Required Score to Clear the PLAB Exam
Scores Required to Clear PLAB 1 Exam:
The passing score varies for each exam based on difficulty.
The score ranges between 120-130 out of 180 questions.
The passing score for the PLAB 1 exam is 70%.
Scores Required to Clear PLAB 2 Exam:
Scored based on clinical skills, communication, and professionalism.
You must pass a minimum number of stations to succeed.
However, the cut-off scores for PLAB exams keep changing. Hence, it is good to check the GMC website for the latest updates.
PLAB Exam Result Dates 2025
Exam Date
Result Date
20 February 2025
3 April 2025 by 4 pm
22 May 2025
3 July 2025 by 4 pm
7 August 2025
18 September 2025 by 4 pm
Retaking the PLAB Exam 2025
Candidates can take the PLAB 1 exam up to four times. If they couldn’t clear it in all four attempts, they may request a fifth attempt to retake the exam.
PLAB 2 can also be attempted up to 4 times. If candidates couldn’t clear the exam in 4 attempts, they must complete a clinical placement or internship before reapplying.
The PLAB exam is a crucial step for international medical graduates aiming to practice in the UK. The exam offers candidates the flexibility to clear it on multiple test dates and to plan and prepare effectively.
Being a globally competitive exam, for PLAB preparation, candidates need the support of a structured learning platform like upGrad to help ease their process. With study materials, mock tests, practice questions, and expert guidance, upGrad’s free online courses can support your PLAB aspirants to boost their chances of success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the PLAB exam for?
The Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) examination is tailored for international medical graduates, to assess their competencies and qualifications to practice medicine in the UK.
How difficult is PLAB for Indians?
The difficulty of the PLAB exam depends on factors like the candidate's background, preparation, and knowledge of the UK healthcare system. PLAB is a two-part exam, with Part 1 focusing on fundamental clinical knowledge, and has 180 multiple-choice questions to be completed in three hours. Part 2 assesses practical skills and communication in a simulated clinical setting.
Is PLAB harder than USMLE?
Though both exams are rigorous, some consider PLAB to be comparatively less challenging than USMLE due to the comprehensive nature of USMLE. USMLE focuses on in-depth basic science knowledge, whereas PLAB focuses on practical clinical skills.
Can I take PLAB after MBBS?
Yes, MBBS students in India can take PLAB after completing their degree. However, their medical college/university should be listed in the ‘World Directory of Medical Schools’.
What is the salary of a doctor in PLAB in the UK?
After passing PLAB and getting General Medical Council (GMC) registration, doctors in the UK can earn between £32,000 (approx. INR 35,59,731) and £63,000 (approx. INR 70,07,773) per year, depending on experience. They usually start in roles like Foundation Year (FY1 or FY2) level in the National Health Service (NHS).
How long is PLAB valid for?
After March 31, 2025, PLAB will be valid for two years. So, a candidate who cleared the PLAB 1 exam must pass PLAB 2 within two years of passing the PLAB 1 test.
Which is better - PLAB or MRCP?
The Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) exam is considered easier to qualify for compared to the Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians (MRCP) exam. This is because PLAB assesses basic clinical knowledge for general practice, while MRCP requires in-depth knowledge and specialization in internal medicine.
What is the benefit of PLAB?
Medical graduates who completed their medical degrees from outside the UK, European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland can appear for the PLAB exam. These exams make test takers eligible to practice as a doctor in the UK, apply for a medical license, and get registered with GMC.
Is PLAB eligible in India?
No, the PLAB exam is not directly eligible for practicing medicine in India. It is a requirement for doctors who want to practice in the UK.
What is the difference between PLAB and IELTS?
PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) is a licensing exam for international medical graduates (IMGs) who are looking to practice medicine in the UK. IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is an English language proficiency test used for various purposes, including immigration, university admission, and professional registration. A specific IELTS Academic version is required for PLAB registration as well.
Which countries accept the PLAB exam?
United Kingdom (UK), Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Scotland, Qatar, Dubai, and Canada.
Mrinal Mandal is a study abroad expert with a passion for guiding students towards their international education goals. He holds a degree in mechanical engineering, earned in 2018. Since 2021, Mrinal has been working with upGrad Abroad, where he assists aspiring students in realizing their dreams of studying abroad. With his expertise and dedication, he empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of international education, making their aspirations a reality.
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