Are you a medical student seeking opportunities to practice in the UK? The Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) exam is the ticket to fulfilling your dream. The (PLAB) full-form, Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board exam is conducted by International Medical Graduates (IMGs) to assess whether one has the required skills and knowledge to practice medicine in the UK.
PLAB exam consists of a two-part assessment: Part 1 is a written exam, and Part 2 is a practical assessment. However, preparation can be daunting with many candidates taking this exam each year. That's why we've put together an ultimate guide that covers everything you need to know to ace the PLAB exam. From exam format and eligibility to registration dates and fees- read on to discover how to boost your chances of success!
PLAB Exam Pattern
The PLAB test is organized by the General Medical Council (UK) and is administered by the British Council, where candidates who are not from the European Economic Area or Switzerland need to pass the PLAB exam. The test is designed to assess your ability to apply your knowledge and skills in a clinical setting. It consists of two parts:
PLAB Part 1: A written multiple choice exam, with 180 Multiple Choice Questions.
PLAB Part 2: A practical exam, which includes an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE).
You will need to pass both parts of the exam to be eligible for registration with the General Medical Council (GMC).
The PLAB Exam syllabus has changed over the period, so it is important to ensure you are familiar with the most up-to-date version. Here is an overview of the current format:
PLAB Part 1 Syllabus
The Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) section of the exam consists of 180 questions, split into three sections of 60 questions each. You will have three hours to complete this section of the exam.
Section 1: Foundation sciences
This section covers basic scientific principles that are relevant to medicine. The questions will test your knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, microbiology, and pathology.
Section 2: Clinical sciences
This section covers topics such as medical ethics, communication skills, and law. The questions test your ability to apply your knowledge to real-life clinical scenarios.
Section 3: Applied clinical sciences
This section covers topics such as emergency medicine, child health, psychiatry, and general practice. The questions will assess your ability to diagnose, manage and treat patients in various clinical settings.
PLAB Part 2 Syllabus:
Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE)
The OSCE is a practical exam assessing your ability to perform medical procedures safely and accurately. You will be tested in various clinical scenarios and will be expected to demonstrate your ability to diagnose, manage and treat patients effectively. The OSCE consists of 16 stations, each lasting 8 minutes, for which you will be having 2 hours to complete the entire exam.
PLAB Registration Process to Follow
It is now possible to register for the Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board (PLAB) test online through the GMC website.
PLAB Registration Fees
Exam
Fees (in Pounds)
Plab Exam Fees in India
Part 1 PLAB exam
£240
INR 24,548.45
Part 2 PLAB exam
£840
INR 85,939.79
Upcoming Important Dates for PLAB Exam 2024
Exam Dates
International Closing Dates
UK Closing Dates
25 May 2023
13 April 2023
11 May 2023
10 August 2023
29 June 2023
27 July 2023
2 November 2023
21 September 2023
19 October 2023
15February 2024
4 January 2024
1 February 2024
23 May 2024
11 April 2024
9 May 2024
Required Criteria for Indian Students:
The primary medical qualification should be provided by an institution listed on the World Directory of Medical Schools, which is acceptable to the GMC.
The qualification must have been provided after completion of a program consisting of at least 5,500 hours over a period of 3 years.
One must have taken clinical rotations or training periods as a part of a primary medical qualification or while pursuing a pre-graduate internship with applicable clinical experience.
Qualification of an individual cannot be undertaken entirely virtually.
Required PLAB Score to Pass the Exam:
About the PLAB 1 exam, the passing scores required are generally between 115-120. These passing marks of the PLAB 1 exam are evaluated based on the method named Angoff Method where evaluation is based on a discussion of the complexities involved in approving judgment about the exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the PLAB exam?
To be permitted to give the PLAB test or to apply for the registration of GMC, one must have passed all the qualifying examinations which are necessary for acquiring an acceptable overseas qualification and must follow the eligibility criteria given below
The primary medical qualification must be in the field of allopathic medicine.
The qualification that one must have is to provide after a program of study consisting of at least 5,500 hours over a minimum period of 3 years.
Is the PLAB exam very difficult?
PLAB exam has been considered of medium difficulty level. According to the figures, the pass rate for 2021 was 74.1%, which is 7,728 out of 10,431, and for 2022 it was 70.9%, which is 10,259 out of 14,470.
What is the PLAB exam for?
The PLAB Exam conducted by IMG (International Medical Graduates) is to check the required skills and knowledge to practice medicine in the United Kingdom (UK).
Is PLAB only for doctors?
Yes, the PLAB Exam is mandatory for doctors only as it is taken in order to demonstrate that one has acquired the necessary skills to practice medicine in the UK.
Mrinal Mandal is a study abroad expert with a passion for guiding students towards their international education goals. He holds a degree in mechanical engineering, earned in 2018. Since 2021, Mrinal has been working with upGrad Abroad, where he assists aspiring students in realizing their dreams of studying abroad. With his expertise and dedication, he empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of international education, making their aspirations a reality.