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PLAB 2 is the second and final stage of the PLAB test and you can take the exam only if you have passed PLAB 1. Before going deep into the PLAB 2 exam, let’s take a quick look at what the PLAB exam is all about.

The PLAB exam enables international medical graduates to migrate to the United Kingdom and practice medicine there. All IMGs who completed their graduation from a medical school outside of the UK, European Economic Area, or Switzerland must take this exam.

PLAB exam format

The PLAB exam is both theoretical and practical in nature. You will need to complete a written exam, PLAB 1, and a practical exam, PLAB 2, in order to be granted the right to work as a physician in the UK.

What is PLAB 2?

PLAB 2 is a performance-based exam that tests your clinical skills, medical knowledge and professional behaviour. The exam also evaluates how well you apply these skills in patient care through simulated medical scenarios. Some scenarios in the exam involve manikins or medical equipment, while others use actors to play the part of patients. The aim is to evaluate your behaviour and communication with patients.

PLAB 2 exam format

Unlike PLAB 1, which is a computer-based test, the PLAB 2 exam is made up of simulated scenarios that aim to replicate real life medical settings and problems, including mock consultations and investigations in an acute ward. The exam consists of 16 stations like these, with each lasting 8 minutes.

After reading the instructions and patient information outside each room, you will have to enter the exam cubicle and complete the task. There will be a timer that announces when to move on. Before moving to the next station, you will get one and a half minutes to travel to the next room and read the instructions and patient information.

Overall, the PLAB 2 exam is not testing your ability to remember and recite facts. Instead, it is testing how you apply your existing medical knowledge.

We hope this information was helpful for you. If you are a medical professional targeting the PLAB 2 exam, StudyPLAB can help you with our expert-led courses that offer structured guidance and high-quality study materials to help you clear the exam in one go.

Connect with our team today to know more about our courses.

Authored By: Sarath