EXAMINATION
PLAB is conducted in two parts:
PLAB 1 is a written, multiple-choice exam consisting of 180 single best answer questions to be completed in 3 hours. The questions are scenario-based, assessing your ability to apply knowledge to the care of patients.
PLAB 2 is a practical Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) with 16 scenarios, each lasting 8 minutes, that simulate real-life clinical situations. It tests your ability to communicate with patients, diagnose conditions, and demonstrate safe medical practice.
Both parts are designed to assess practical and clinical application, rather than theoretical knowledge, making them vital for hands-on readiness.
Indian candidates must have a primary medical qualification recognized by the World Directory of Medical Schools. Additionally, candidates must pass an English language proficiency test such as IELTS (7.5 overall, minimum 7.0 in each module) or OET (Grade B in all modules) before applying for PLAB 1.
To apply for the PLAB exam, candidates must provide the following: A copy of their primary medical qualification (MBBS degree) and its English translation, if applicable, A valid passport, Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS/OET results), Internship completion certificate or equivalent proof, GMC Online account details. These documents are essential to verify your credentials and ensure your eligibility to attempt the exam.
| General Medicine | Cardiology, Respiratory, Gastroenterology, Endocrinology, Neurology, Rheumatology, Nephrology |
| Surgery | General Surgery, Orthopedics, Urology, ENT, Ophthalmology |
| Obstetrics and Gynecology | Antenatal care, Labour management, Postnatal care, Common gynecological conditions |
| Pediatrics | Growth & development, Common infections, Vaccination, Pediatric emergencies |
| Psychiatry | Depression, Anxiety, Psychosis, Suicide risk, Mental health assessment |
| Ethics & Legal Framework | Informed consent, Confidentiality, Breaking bad news, Medical negligence, GMC guidance |
| Emergency Medicine | CPR, Anaphylaxis, Shock management, Trauma, Triage |
| Communication & Interpersonal Skills | Patient interaction, Explaining procedures, Handling complaints, Language proficiency |
| Clinical Procedures | Venepuncture, Cannulation, Catheterization, BP measurement, Basic life support |
| Prescribing & Drug Safety | Common drug interactions, Safe prescriptions, Dosing, Adverse effects |
Visit the GMC official website and register for an online account.
Submit documents for primary medical qualification and language proficiency.
Once approved, book a PLAB 1 slot from available international locations (such as India, UAE).
After passing PLAB 1, log in again to book PLAB 2, which is held only in Manchester, UK.
Appear for both exams with proper preparation and documentation.
PLAB 1 results are usually released 4 weeks after the exam date, while PLAB 2 results are declared within 2 weeks of the exam. Results are shared via your GMC Online account. Candidates who pass are eligible to proceed with applying for GMC registration with a license to practice in the UK.
If you fail either part of the PLAB exam, you can request feedback via your GMC account. While rechecking or reevaluation isn’t allowed, you can review which areas you underperformed in. You can retake PLAB 1 up to four times and PLAB 2 up to four times as well, provided you are within the eligibility period.
Once you pass PLAB 1 and PLAB 2, your next step is to apply for GMC registration. You must submit additional documents like proof of internship, good standing certificate from the Indian Medical Council, and identity verification. After GMC registration, you are eligible to apply for jobs in the NHS and begin your journey as a practicing doctor in the UK.
After successfully registering with the GMC, Indian doctors are officially licensed to work in the UK. This registration is recognized across many countries and opens doors for future relocation, postgraduate education (e.g., MRCP, MRCS), and clinical training in Europe, Australia, and the Middle East.
| PLAB 1 | £255 |
| PLAB 2 | £934 |
| IELTS/OET | £180-£200 |
| GMC Registration | £161 |
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