PLAB
Table of Content
The PLAB Test, or Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board Test, is a requirement for doctors who graduated from a medical school outside of the UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland to practice medicine in the UK.
The test is designed to assess the knowledge and skills of these doctors to ensure they are on par with those starting their second year of Foundation Programme training in the UK.
The PLAB test is divided into two parts: a written multiple choice exam with 180 single best answer questions and a practical objective structured clinical exam (OSCE).
Candidates must pass both parts of the test before they can apply for registration with a license to practice medicine in the UK.
Before taking the PLAB test, candidates are required to set up a GMC Online account and provide verification that their medical qualification and knowledge of English are acceptable. Once the requirements are met, candidates can book their place for the first part of the test.
PLAB Part 1
PLAB Part 1 is a written exam made up of 180 multiple choice questions which must be answered within three hours. The exam consists of short scenarios followed by a question, and candidates must choose the correct answer out of five possible answers. PLAB Part 1 can be taken in a number of countries as well as in the UK, and candidates can check available locations and dates when they log in to GMC Online. Know More
PLAB Part 2
PLAB Part 2 is an objective structured clinical exam, which consists of 16 scenarios, each lasting eight minutes. The exam aims to reflect real-life settings, including mock consultations and acute ward scenarios.
PLAB Part 2 tests run throughout the year at the GMC's clinical assessment center. Know More
After Passing PLAB
Once candidates have passed both parts of the PLAB exam, they can apply for registration with a license to practice. The application must be approved within two years of passing Part 2 of the test. Once the GMC approves the application, and the candidates gain registration, they can work as a doctor in the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the PLAB Test
What is the PLAB test?
The PLAB test, or Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board test, is a requirement for doctors who graduated from a medical school outside of the UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland to practice medicine in the UK. The test is designed to assess the knowledge and skills of these doctors to ensure they are on par with those starting their second year of Foundation Programme training in the UK.
Who needs to take the PLAB test?
You may need to take PLAB if you graduated from a medical school outside the United Kingdom, EEA, or Switzerland.
The PLAB test has how many parts?
The PLAB test is divided into two parts: a written multiple choice exam and a practical objective structured clinical exam (OSCE).
How long does the PLAB test take?
The written multiple choice exam (PLAB Part 1) takes 3 hours to complete and the practical objective structured clinical exam (PLAB Part 2) takes 8 minutes per scenario, with a total of 16 scenarios.
How do I register for the PLAB test?
To take the PLAB test, you'll need a GMC Online account and proof that your medical qualifications and English proficiency are acceptable. In order to take the PLAB test, you must create a GMC Online account and prove that your medical qualification and English proficiency meet the requirements.
Your information will be verified, and if it meets our requirements, you can book your place on part 1 of the PLAB test.
How long do I have to complete the PLAB test?
Before you can apply for a medical license in the UK, you must pass both parts of the test. Within two years of passing part 2 of the test, your application must be approved.
How can I prepare for the PLAB test?
The GMC provides sample questions and past papers for both Part 1 and Part 2 of the PLAB test on their website, as well as guidance on what to expect in the exam. Additionally, there are also various PLAB preparation courses and resources available online.
What happens if I fail the PLAB test?
If you fail either part of the PLAB test, you will have to retake the test. The GMC sets the rules for how many attempts you can make and how long you have to wait between attempts.
Will my PLAB test results be valid forever?
No, your PLAB test results are valid for two years from the date you passed Part 2 of the test. After two years, you will need to retake the test if you have not yet applied for registration and a license to practice.
In summary, the PLAB test is a necessary step for medical graduates from outside of the UK, EEA, or Switzerland to practice medicine in the UK. The test is divided into two parts and candidates must pass both parts before applying for registration and a license to practice. To take the test, candidates must first set up a GMC Online account and provide verification of their qualifications and language proficiency.
