PLAB Examination Structure
Part 1: The PLAB examination consists of two parts. The first part, PLAB 1, is a multiple-choice question (MCQ) exam with 180 questions. Candidates are given 3 hours to complete this section.
Part 2: The second part, PLAB 2, involves an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE). It consists of 18 clinical stations, each lasting 18 minutes, with an additional 2 minutes for reading the instructions. This exam assesses the candidate’s competence at the level of a doctor in the Foundation Year 2 (F2) of the Foundation Programme.
Application Process for the PLAB Examination
To apply for the PLAB examination, candidates need to visit the General Medical Council (GMC) website. After submitting their application, they will receive a confirmation email from the GMC, which will include details such as their registration information, test location, venue, and starting time.
PLAB 1 is conducted twice a year in various cities in India, specifically on March 15th and November 15th. The registration deadline is usually 8 weeks before the exam date.
Candidates have the option to take PLAB 1 multiple times, with no restrictions. However, they can only attempt PLAB 2 up to four times. If a candidate fails their fourth attempt at PLAB 2, they will be required to retake PLAB 1 before attempting PLAB 2 again.
PLAB Examination Syllabus
The syllabus for both PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 primarily draws from the standard medical textbooks commonly used in British medical schools. As an additional resource, candidates can consult the GMC booklet titled ‘Advice to Candidates,’ which provides guidance specifically tailored for each part of the exam.
PLAB Exam Cost
Given below is the fee structure of the PLAB exam:
| Test | Fees in GBP | Fees in INR |
| PLAB 1 | 239 | 24k |
| PLAB 2 | 875 | 89k |
PLAB Exam Result
- Result Declaration for PLAB 1: The outcome of PLAB 1 is typically announced four weeks after the test.
- Result Declaration for PLAB 2: The outcome of PLAB 2 is typically announced two weeks after the test.
Availability of Results: The exact result dates are announced simultaneously with the test dates. Candidates can access their results on the official GMC website one day after they are dispatched by mail.
Result Validity: The PLAB exam result remains valid for a period of three years. Candidates must pass PLAB 2 within three years of passing PLAB 1.
Number of Attempts
Attempts Allowed: As the PLAB exam is highly competitive, candidates have a limited number of attempts for each part.
- Part 1 Attempts: Candidates are permitted up to four attempts for PLAB 1.
- Part 2 Attempts: Candidates can make up to four attempts for the part 2 OSCE, given that they pass the part 1 examination within the valid timeframe.
Note: Part 2 must be passed within two years of passing Part 1, with a maximum of four attempts. Failure to pass Part 2 within this timeframe or on the fourth attempt requires re-sitting both Part 1 and Part 2.
PLAB Exam after MBBS
Pursuing PG in the UK: Indian MBBS graduates can pursue postgraduate studies in the UK by taking the PLAB exam. This exam is a prerequisite for obtaining GMC registration, which is mandatory in the UK medical system. It evaluates eligibility for GMC registration but does not confer a degree. It only registers applicants with the GMC.
What's Next?
Application for Complete Registration: Upon successfully passing both PLAB tests, you can apply for complete registration with a practice license. Your application must be approved within two years of completing Part 2.
Practice Medicine in the UK: Once the GMC grants approval to your application, you are authorized to practice medicine in the UK.
FAQs
The fee for PLAB 1 is INR 24,416 & for PLAB 2 is INR 89,426.
To be eligible for the PLAB 1 exam, you must have completed your final exams for the degree that awards you the qualification. You do not need to possess the physical diploma, but your exam results confirming the completion of your PMQ degree are required.
Many individuals find it challenging to complete all 180 questions within the 3-hour time limit. In 2019, approximately 64% of PLAB Part 1 takers passed the exam, while the pass rate for Part 2 was slightly higher at 66%. Effective time management is crucial to enhance your chances of passing the exam.
While comparing pass rates may suggest that USMLE exams are easier due to their higher pass rates compared to the PLAB exam, it is important to note that the Step 1 and 2 CK exams provide a numerical score that significantly impacts your competitiveness as a future applicant.