What is the PLAB Exam?

Posted on 16 Oct 2025

What is the PLAB Exam?
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Introduction

The Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) exam is the official test for international medical graduates who wish to practise medicine in the United Kingdom. The PLAB ensures that doctors trained outside the UK, the European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland have the same level of knowledge and skills as doctors who graduate from UK medical schools. It is a vital step toward obtaining registration with the General Medical Council (GMC), which allows doctors to work safely and effectively within the UK’s healthcare system.

Why the PLAB Exam Matters

For international students studying medicine abroad, PLAB is a bridge between your medical degree and clinical practice in the UK. The GMC requires this assessment for doctors whose qualifications are not automatically recognised in the United Kingdom. Even if your degree is from a reputable international university, PLAB verifies that your training meets UK standards of practice and patient safety. Passing PLAB allows you to apply for GMC registration and begin practising under supervision in the UK.

The Structure of the PLAB Exam

The PLAB exam is divided into two parts — Part 1, which focuses on medical knowledge, and Part 2, which tests clinical and communication skills.

PLAB Part 1: Written Exam

PLAB Part 1 is a multiple-choice exam consisting of 180 single best answer questions, taken over approximately three hours. It assesses your understanding of core medical science and clinical reasoning, focusing on the kind of knowledge you would apply in day-to-day hospital or clinic settings in the UK. The exam is held in multiple international locations, making it accessible for candidates studying outside the UK.

PLAB Part 2: Clinical OSCE

Once you have passed Part 1, you become eligible for Part 2, which is an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) held only in the United Kingdom. It features 16 clinical stations, each designed to simulate real-life medical scenarios. You will interact with patients (often actors), perform examinations, take histories, and demonstrate clinical decision-making, communication, and professionalism. It’s important to note that you must complete PLAB Part 2 within two years of passing Part 1; otherwise, you’ll need to retake the first part before moving forward.

The PLAB and the UKMLA

The UK Medical Licensing Assessment (UKMLA) is a new assessment framework introduced by the General Medical Council (GMC). It applies to students who graduate from UK medical schools and, in time, will align with the route for international medical graduates.

However, as of now, there are no transition plans from the PLAB to the UKMLA. The PLAB exam remains the assessment that international medical graduates must take to demonstrate that they meet the GMC’s requirements for medical knowledge and clinical skills.

The structure of the UKMLA is similar to that of the PLAB, consisting of two components:

  • The Applied Knowledge Test (AKT), which assesses theoretical and clinical understanding.
  • The Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA), which evaluates practical and communication skills in clinical scenarios.

This alignment reflects the GMC’s long-term aim of maintaining consistent standards for all doctors practising in the UK. Nevertheless, international medical graduates will continue to take the PLAB exam until further updates are announced by the GMC.

Who Needs to Take the PLAB Exam?

The PLAB is required for doctors who completed their medical degree outside the UK, EEA, or Switzerland, and whose qualifications are not automatically recognised by the GMC. This includes international graduates from both EU and non-EU countries who aim to work in the UK.

Preparing for the PLAB Exam

Preparation for PLAB usually requires several months of focused study. SME recommends setting aside three to six months to review the syllabus, practise mock questions, and familiarise yourself with the exam format. For Part 1, focus on clinical reasoning and theoretical knowledge through structured question banks and timed mock exams. For Part 2, the emphasis shifts to hands-on practice through clinical role-plays, communication exercises, and OSCE simulations. Because PLAB Part 2 must be taken in the UK, it is crucial to plan your trip early — including your visa, travel dates, and accommodation — to ensure a smooth testing experience.

How Study Medicine Europe Supports PLAB Preparation

Study Medicine Europe provides academic and logistical support for students preparing for PLAB exams. Through its online tutoring platform, students can receive one-to-one guidance from qualified instructors. SME offers one free hour of online tutoring for enrolled students, with additional sessions available at discounted rates. Tutors help candidates design personalised study plans, review clinical scenarios, and practise communication skills that are critical for OSCE success. SME’s mentorship also extends to practical matters such as exam scheduling, GMC registration guidance, and preparation for life and practice in the UK.

Challenges and Key Tips

Booking a PLAB 2 exam slot in the UK can be competitive, so candidates are advised to apply early and monitor available dates through the GMC’s official site. Remember that if more than two years pass after your Part 1 result, you must retake it before moving on to Part 2. In addition to studying, practical exposure to clinical environments in English-speaking countries — particularly in hospitals following UK protocols — can make a significant difference. Familiarity with the NHS’s communication standards and patient-centred approach is invaluable for the OSCE stage. SME also encourages students to join study groups, complete mock OSCEs, and take advantage of expert feedback to refine their performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is PLAB the same as UKMLA?

No. The PLAB exam remains the route for international medical graduates who wish to practise in the UK. The UKMLA is a new framework that standardises the assessment process for both UK and international doctors. The PLAB will continue to operate as part of this new framework, aligned with the UKMLA’s structure and standards.

Q: Can I take PLAB 2 outside the UK?

No. PLAB Part 2 must be taken in the United Kingdom at an approved GMC testing centre.

Q: What happens if I don’t take PLAB 2 within two years of passing PLAB 1?

You’ll need to retake PLAB Part 1 before booking your Part 2 exam.

Q: How many times can I attempt PLAB?

The GMC allows a limited number of attempts for each part, and failing repeatedly may require further medical retraining before reapplying.

Q: Will PLAB be discontinued after 2025?

No. The PLAB exam will not be discontinued after 2025. Instead, it will be incorporated within the UKMLA framework. International medical graduates will continue to take the PLAB exam, which will be updated to reflect the UKMLA’s unified assessment forma

Q: How can Study Medicine Europe help me prepare?

SME offers online tutoring, mock exam practice, and mentorship throughout your PLAB or UKMLA preparation journey, ensuring you are fully supported every step of the way.