Blog

For students who have completed their primary medical education outside the UK but are dreaming of building their career in the United Kingdom, PLAB is the challenging hurdle you need to clear.

Here, we will go through some key requirements aspirants need to ensure before sitting for the PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 exams.

PLAB: An Overview

Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board examination, or PLAB, is the licensing exam for doctors who are looking to practice medicine in the UK. Conducted by the General Medical Council (UK), this exam tests the practical and theoretical knowledge of medical graduates and ensures they are fully eligible to practice in the country.

PLAB: Requirements to Fulfil to Be Eligible for the Exam

Before you appear for the PLAB exam, ensure you have passed the necessary eligibility criteria for international medical graduates.

Primary Medical Qualification

To be eligible for PLAB 1, you must possess a recognized overseas primary medical qualification. Your primary medical qualification should be accepted by the General Medical Council (GMC).

English Language Proficiency

Showcase your proficiency in English language by clearing international English language tests like IELTS or OET. A minimum overall score of 7.5 with at least 7.0 in each component is required in the case of IELTS, and Grade B in all four sections is required for OET.

Clinical Experience

You must have clinical experience as part of your primary medical qualification or during a postgraduate internship. A minimum of one year of internship or its equivalent in your home country or another country is needed.

Once you clear PLAB 1, you can sit for the PLAB 2 exam. Make sure you appear for the PLAB 2 exam within two years of passing PLAB 1.

How to Apply for the PLAB Exam?

Once you fulfil the eligibility criteria, you can apply for PLAB. To apply for the PLAB exam, you need to:

1. Set up a GMC account at the official website of the General Medical Council
2. Receive a reference number, which you will use throughout the application process
3. Log in to your GMC account and fill up all the necessary details
4. Apply for the upcoming exam

PLAB is a challenging and crucial step in your journey of building your dream medical career in the UK. Before you apply, check all the prerequisites and ensure you are eligible.

If you need any support in booking PLAB 1 or PLAB 2 exams, StudyPLAB is here to guide you. Connect with us to know more.

Authored By: Mariya P J