International medical graduates (IMGs) make up nearly one-third of all doctors working in the NHS, highlighting just how important global talent is to the UK healthcare system. Every year, thousands of doctors from countries like India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Egypt, and the Philippines begin their journey toward joining the NHS and almost all of them start with one essential exam: PLAB.
With the UK continuing to face increasing healthcare demands and expanding its medical workforce, the PLAB exam has become one of the most popular pathways for IMGs looking to build a rewarding career in the UK. In this blog learn all about the PLAB exam, step-by-step guide to practising medicine in the UK.
What is the PLAB Exam?
The PLAB exam is set by the General Medical Council (GMC) to ensure that IMGs meet the standards expected of UK medical graduates. Passing PLAB qualifies you for GMC registration, which is mandatory before you can practice clinically in the UK.
Update: PLAB’s Transition to the UKMLA
The GMC is transitioning PLAB into the UK Medical Licensing Assessment (UKMLA). PLAB still exists, but it now follows the UKMLA content map.
PLAB–UKMLA Alignment Table
| Component | PLAB Version | UKMLA Equivalent |
| Theory Exam | PLAB 1 (MCQ) | AKT – Applied Knowledge Test |
| Clinical Exam | PLAB 2 (OSCE) | CPSA – Clinical & Professional Skills Assessment |
| Content Blueprint | PLAB Blueprint | UKMLA Content Map |
| Target Group | IMGs | All doctors (UK grads + IMGs) |
Who Needs the PLAB Exam?
You must take PLAB if:
- Your medical degree is outside the UK, EEA, or Switzerland
- You do not hold a UK-recognized postgraduate qualification (MRCP, MRCS)
- You seek full GMC registration
PLAB Exam Structure and Format
| Exam Part | Format | Duration | Location | Skills Tested |
| PLAB 1 | 180 MCQs | 3 hours | Global test centers | Clinical knowledge & reasoning |
| PLAB 2 | OSCE (16–18 stations) | ~2.5 hours | Manchester, UK | Communication, examination, and decision-making |
Eligibility Criteria for the PLAB Exam
Before booking PLAB, you must fulfill certain requirements.
Educational Requirements
You must have:
- A medical degree that is accepted by the GMC
- Verified qualifications through EPIC or similar platforms
- Completed at least 12 months of medical internship
English Language Requirements
You must prove English proficiency through either:
- IELTS Academic: Overall 7.5, minimum 7.0 in each section
- OET Medicine: Grade B in all components
How to Register for the PLAB Exam (Step-by-Step)
The registration process is straightforward but requires accurate documentation.
1. Create a GMC Online Account
Start by visiting the GMC website and creating an account.
You will need to add:
- Personal information
- Passport details
- Medical degree information
Once your account is verified, you can view available exam dates.
2. Submit Documents & Pay Exam Fees
You’ll be asked to upload:
- Passport or national ID
- Medical degree certificate
- Internship or house job proof
- English language test scores
After approval, you can book:
- PLAB 1 (available in multiple countries)
- PLAB 2 (held only in Manchester)
How to Prepare for PLAB 1
PLAB 1 demands strong clinical reasoning and thorough preparation. Here’s how to get started.
Best Study Resources
Many IMGs use:
- Question banks like PassMedicine or MCQ-based apps
- PLAB keys, notes, and online explanations
- YouTube lectures and revision videos
- Mock exams from PLAB academies
- The UKMLA content map, which now guides exam topics
Using a mix of questions and explanations will help reinforce understanding.
Sample Study Plan (3–4 Months)
Here’s a balanced approach:
- Month 1: Study major specialties; solve 30–40 MCQs daily
- Month 2: Attempt timed mocks twice weekly
- Month 3: Revise weaknesses and complete full mock exams
Consistency matters more than volume, even 2 hours daily can be effective.
Academically provides PLAB Preparation Course, in which you get live and recorded lectures, study materials, question banks, AI-based mock tests, personalised guidance and so much more! Enrol today and pass the exam on the first attempt.
How to Prepare for PLAB 2
PLAB 2 requires a very different type of preparation, it’s practical, interpersonal, and scenario-based.
Skills Tested in PLAB 2
You will be assessed on:
- Communication skills
- Clinical examination techniques
- Taking patient history
- Giving management plans
- Breaking bad news
- Ethical decision-making
The exam focuses heavily on patient-centered care.
Importance of Mock OSCEs
While attending academies isn’t mandatory, most IMGs find them extremely helpful for:
- Practicing with simulated patients
- Receiving feedback from instructors
- Getting familiar with station timing
- Building confidence before the real exam
Mock OSCEs often make the difference between passing and narrowly missing the score.
What Happens After Passing the PLAB Exam?
Applying for GMC Registration
Once you pass PLAB 1 and PLAB 2, you can apply for full GMC registration.
You will need:
- Verified medical degree
- Passport
- Internship evidence
- Fitness-to-practise declarations
After approval, you will officially receive your license to practice.
Applying for Jobs in the NHS
Most newly registered IMGs start their careers in roles such as:
- FY2-level jobs
- Trust Grade positions
- Junior Clinical Fellow posts
- Locum roles
The UK offers excellent career progression pathways through:
- Core training
- Specialty trainin
- MRCP/MRCS examinations
- Consultant-level development
Final Thoughts
The PLAB exam is a vital step for IMGs who aspire to work in the UK’s healthcare system. As PLAB transitions into the UKMLA framework, its structure stays similar — but the content is now aligned with modern UK standards. With proper preparation, the right resources, and a clear study plan, success is entirely achievable.
Tables, timelines, and updated information make the process easier to navigate, and with consistent effort, your dream of practicing medicine in the UK can soon become a reality.
If you have any questions or queries about the PLAB exam, reach out to the experts at Academically. They will be happy to assist you.
