Did you know that more than 20,000 candidates took the PLAB 1 exam in 2023? And what’s even better, more than 15,000 candidates cleared the exam. Now, if you don’t know what the PLAB exam is, this blog is just for you.
The assessment is composed of two parts:
- PLAB 1- written MCQ, and
- PLAB 2- clinical OSCE
Together, they evaluate your readiness to work at the level of a UK foundation doctor.
This guide focuses on PLAB 1. It is the first step of the journey. We'll cover what to expect, how to study, and tips to help you pass confidently.
What Is PLAB 1- AKT?
PLAB 1 is also referred to as the Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) under UKMLA standards. It is a written, multiple-choice exam that assesses your core clinical knowledge in scenarios typical of UK medical practice.
- Format: Single best answer MCQ,
- Number of Questions: 180 MCQs.
- Duration: 3 hours.
- Focus Areas: Medical knowledge and real-life application.
There is no negative marking for this exam. Each correct answer carries 1 mark.
The exam tests not just factual recall but also:
- Clinical reasoning
- Decision-making
- Understanding of UK best practices and guidelines
Eligibility Criteria
The basic requirements for PLAB 1 are:
Primary Medical Qualification
- A medical degree from a GMC-recognized institution
- Should be listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools.
English Language Proficiency
- IELTS: 7.5 overall
- Or OET: Grade B in all four sub-tests
Internship Requirement
- A minimum of 12 months of internship
- Including ≥3 months in Medicine
- ≥3 months in Surgery
- No more than 20 days of absence
Exam Format & Key Details
Exam Structure
- Duration: 3 hours
- Number of Questions: 180 multiple-choice questions
- Question Style: Scenario-based
- Answer: Single best answer
Test Blueprint Areas
Core-topic areas include:
- Medicine
- Surgery
- Paediatrics
- Obstetrics & Gynaecology
- Psychiatry
- Emergency Medicine
- General Practice
Additionally, it emphasizes themes like
- Patient safety
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Clinical judgement
2025 Exam Dates, Centers & Fees
Exam Dates
PLAB 1 is held four times a year:
- February
- May
- August
- November
The dates for the PLAB 1 exam in 2025 have been announced by the GMC, along with the result dates.
| PLAB 1 Exam date | Result Date |
| 20th February, 2025 | 3rd April, 2025 |
| 22nd May, 2025 | 3rd July, 2025 |
| 7th August, 2025 | 8th September, 2025 |
| 6th November, 2025 | 18th December, 2025 |
Exam Centers
The exam centers for the PLAB 1 exam are spread throughout the world. Some of these centers are listed below.
| Country | City |
| Australia | Sydney |
| Bangladesh | Dhaka |
| Canada | Toronto |
| Egypt | Alexandria Cario |
| Ghana | Accra |
| India | Bangalore Chennai Hyderabad Kolkata Mumbai New Delhi |
| Kenya | Nairobi |
| Nigeria | Abuja Enugu Lagos |
| Pakistan | Islamabad Karachi |
| Republic of Ireland | Dublin |
| Saudi Arabia | Riyadh |
| South Africa | Johannesburg |
| Spain | Madrid |
| Sri Lanka | Colombo |
| UAE | Dubai |
The centers work on a first-come, first-served basis. Book the centers well in advance to avoid any last-minute delays and stress.
Fees
Fees may vary depending on locale and exchange rates.
PLAB 1 Exam: £273 or ₹31,941
PLAB 2 fee is higher at around £998, but that's beyond the PLAB 1 scope.
Preparation Strategies & Study Plan
Preparation Timeline
- PLAB 1: 3 to 6 months of focused preparation.
Study Strategy
Understand the Blueprint
- Use the GMC’s official PLAB blueprint to identify topics
- Structure your study accordingly
Use High-Quality Study Materials
- Books: e.g., ‘PLAB 1 Exam: 500 Single Best Answer Questions’, Oxford Handbook of Clinical Medicine.
- Online question banks
- PLAB 1 format mock tests
Daily Practice
- Regular SBA practice
- Improve reasoning, speed, and time management.
Mock Exams & Review
- Do full-length mock exams
- Review answers thoroughly
- Study rationale for incorrect options
Focus on UK Guidelines
- Understand NICE guidelines
- Study UK clinical standards
Study Groups & Coaching
- Join peer groups
- Enrol in PLAB 1 Preparation Course
- Stay motivated
- Share resources
- Simulate test conditions
Self-Care & Scheduling
- Maintain good health
- Plan consistent study hours
- Take breaks to avoid burnout
Passing Scores & Attempts
- The passing mark for PLAB 1 typically falls between 115–120 out of 180, approximately 65%.
- Pass rates have varied over the years.
- Historically, they are around 60–75% on the first attempt.
Attempts Allowed
- Maximum 4 attempts for both PLAB 1 and PLAB 2.
- A 5th attempt may be allowed under specific circumstances.
What Happens Next? Post-Exam Steps
After passing PLAB 1:
- Book PLAB 2 via your GMC online account.
- This is an OSCE format, held in the UK only.
- Take PLAB 2 (CPSA) within 2 years of passing PLAB 1.
Upon passing both parts, you can apply for GMC registration for a licence to practise in the UK.
You typically start in a Foundation Year 2-equivalent role and can work in the NHS or private sector
If you don’t pass on your first attempt, do not worry. There a few steps to improve on your next attempt:
- Review feedback
- Strengthen weaker areas
- Follow a structured plan
Summary Box: Quick Reference
| Category | Details (2025) |
| Exam | PLAB 1 (AKT) SBA MCQ 180 questions 3 hours |
| Eligibility | Recognised medical degree IELTS 7.5 (7 each)/OET B, 12-month internship |
| Covered Topics | Medicine Surgery Paediatrics OBGYN Psychiatry |
| Exam Dates (approx.) | Feb 20, 2025 May 22, 2025 Aug 7, 2025 Nov 6, 2025 |
| Fee | £273 or ₹31,941 |
| Preparation | 3- 6 months Online classes Structured timetable Practice questions Mock tests Study groups |
| Pass Mark | 115–120 65% pass rate |
| Attempts | Up to 4 attempts 5th under special conditions |
| Post-Pass Step | Book PLAB 2 Apply GMC registration Begin practice in UK |
Final Thoughts & Tips
- Start Early and Stay Organized
Use a study schedule that follows the official syllabus. - Practice Consistently
Regular SBA practice improves recall. It also reduces exam anxiety and builds speed. - Know UK Standards
Use GMC blueprints and NICE guidelines to align your thought process. - Mock Testing
Simulate exam conditions with time-limited full-length practice tests. - Well-Being Matters
Take care of your physical and mental health—quality rest enhances performance. - Stay Updated
Always check the GMC official site for updated exam details.
Parting Words
Preparing for PLAB 1 in 2025 requires a strategy. Do focused study and use smart resources. With the right approach, you can clear this essential step with ease. Practicing medicine in the UK can become your reality.
The best way to qualify for the PLAB 1 exam is with expert guidance. And Academically will provide you with just that. Enrol in our PLAB preparation course, and get access to:
- Expert teacher
- AI-Backed Mock Exams
- Personalized class
- Recorded and Live Sessions
- Document and Resume Help
And so much more. Connect today and explore all your options.