PLAB Exam 2025 Dates Key Registration Deadlines and Booking Information

This blog details the 2025 PLAB exam schedule. Learn about the registration deadlines, booking strategies, and priority access.

Let’s get into this and start your preparation in a timely and strategic manner.

What is the PLAB Exam?

The PLAB exam is conducted for IMGs who have not graduated from the UK, Switzerland, or the European Economic Area. It ensures that the IMGs have the required knowledge and skills to work as doctors in the UK.

The PLAB exam consists of two parts:

• PLAB 1: A written multiple-choice exam offered quarterly.
• PLAB 2: A clinical OSCE held year-round in Manchester.

PLAB Exam Dates

PLAB 1 2025 Dates

The PLAB 1 exam is held four times annually: 

• February
• May
• August
• November

PLAB 1 dates for 2025 are as follows:

Booking Windows

Since the seats are limited for each centre, you have to book for the exam well in advance. Normally, you would book your exam center at least 8 to 10 months prior. 

The PLAB Exam 1 booking window at the exam dates for the centers closes 2 to 6 weeks before the exam, depending on the location.

• UK centers: Booking closes two weeks before exam day.
• Overseas centers: Booking closes six weeks before exam day.

Booking Prerequisites

To register for the exam and book your centers, you need to have the following things aligned:

1. A verified GMC Online account.
2. Verified English language proficiency certificate 

IELTS- 7.5 overall, ≥7.0 in each band

OET- B in all modules

1. Verification of your primary medical qualification.

Once registered, you can register for the exam. You can select from the list of centres released by the GMC.

Academically has for you a comprehensive, easy-to-understand, and customisable PLAB Exam preparation course. From live sessions to mock exams and group study, we cover every avenue for you.

Register in our PLAB Preparation Course and begin your journey towards a medical career in the UK.

Read: How to Prepare for PLAB 2 in 2025 

PLAB 2 2025 Dates

The PLAB 2 exam has a continuous booking schedule. It is held year-round at the GMC Clinical Assessment Centre in Manchester. Results for the exam typically return within 4 to 6 weeks 

Booking Window

The demand for the PLAB 2 exam is high. The slots are released frequently but unpredictably. Candidates are recommended to check multiple times a day to secure early-month slots.

You can book your slot for the PLAB 2 exam as soon as you get your PLAB 1 results. 

It is recommended to book your slot 6-8 months in advance.

Booking Prerequisites

Only those who’ve passed PLAB 1 can access PLAB 2 booking via the GMC Online account. 

The PLAB exam dates for overseas centers as well as the UK centers remain the same.

Exam Centers for the PLAB Exams

PLAB 1 Exam Centers

The PLAB 1 exam is held worldwide. We have made a list of selected centers in the UK and around the world. 

Test centers in the UK:

1. Belfast
2. Birmingham
3. Cardiff
4. Edinburgh
5. London
6. Manchester
7. Newcastle
8. Oxford
9. Sheffield 

PLAB 1 Exam Overseas Centers:

Booking these centers depends on availability. You might encounter a wait time for your desired center.

PLAB 2 Exam Centers

The PLAB 2 exam is held in the UK, in Manchester. There are two centers for the exam:

1. GMC Clinical Assessment Centre
   3 Hardman Square
   Manchester
   M3 3EB
2. GMC Clinical Assessment Centre
   3 Hardman Street
   Manchester
   M3 3AW

The center names are similar. Ensure you confirm the address thoroughly. 

Since the PLAB 2 exam requires travelling to the UK, ensure you have your Visa and travel arrangements planned ahead of time. Last-minute confusion and delays can result in missing the exam. 

Our support group at Academically can help you with the visa application and guide you through the process of passing the PLAB exam.

Tips for Securing a Slot

• Daily monitoring of the GMC booking portal.
• Set alerts for exam date notifications and to know when slots open.
• If needed, contact the official site of GMC for help. Especially if you have a UK NHS job offer or refugee status.

Also Read: PLAB Exam 2025 Guide: Dates, Format, Syllabus & Preparation Plan

Booking Strategies & Best Practices

1. Early account setup: Ensure GMC Online account, language evidence, and qualification documents are verified well in advance.
2. Understand booking windows. It is important to know the PLAB exam deadline. Book dates early to leave more time for preparation.
   • UK PLAB 1: Closes 2 weeks prior
   • Overseas PLAB 1: Closes 6 weeks prior
   • For the PLAB 2 exam, seats may open in batches.
3. Monitor daily for PLAB 2 slots 
4. PLA‍B 2 alerts: Join forums for real-time updates.
5. Contact GMC directly (plab@gmc-uk.org) if prioritized by UKFP or NHS.
6. Backup dates: Have alternative exam windows ready in case slots fill fast.
7. Alternative locations: Willingness to travel can broaden options.

Summary Table

Final Word

Booking your exam slot is a crucial step in the PLAB exams. It decides not only your centers, but also the time you have for preparation. You need to be quick, persistent, and up-to-date to get the slot of your choice.

It is also good to have alternatives in hand, for exam dates and centers. The GMC allows you to change your centers and date, albeit with a fee. 

By understanding booking processes, deadlines, and priority rules, you can align your PLAB journey with your career goals. 

If you’re still confused about whether taking the PLAB exam is the best choice or about the process, feel free to reach out to us. Our mentors with years of experience are here to help you through all of your doubts.