The Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board test, also known as the PLAB exam is required to be passed by the doctors to make sure they have the right knowledge and skills to practise medicine in the UK.

Getting a license to practice in the UK requires passing a two part examination.

Q. How many exams does the PLAB test have?

There are two parts to the test.

Part 1 is a written multiple choice exam, with 180 single best answer questions.

Part 2 is a practical objective structured clinical exam, known as an OSCE.

You’ll need to pass both parts before you can apply for registration with a licence to practise medicine in the UK.

Q. What do you need before you can take PLAB?

Before you can take the PLAB test, you’ll need to set up a GMC online account and show that your medical qualification and knowledge of English are acceptable. Your information will be verified, and if it meets their requirements, you can book for part 1 of the PLAB test.

PLAB 1 is a written exam made up of 180 multiple choice questions which you must answer within three hours. Each starts with a short scenario followed by a question. You need to choose the right answer out of the five possible answers given. You can sit part 1 in a number of countries, as well as in the UK. Have a look at the available locations and dates when you log in to GMC Online.

PLAB 2 is an objective structured clinical exam. It's made up of 16 scenarios, each lasting eight minutes and aims to reflect real life settings including a mock consultation or an acute ward.

Q. What happens after you’ve passed PLAB 1 and PLAB 2?

Once you’ve passed both parts, you can apply for GMC registration with a licence to practise. Your application must be approved within two years of passing part 2 of the test. Once your application is approved and you gain registration you can work as a doctor in the UK. 

Dr. Afreen’s Academy offers comprehensive PLAB part 1 exam practice questions and revision materials, mock tests and more to help you get prepared for the first step towards your GMC registration.