PLAB 1 guide — Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board

===== plab-1-guide ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-1-guide PLAB 1 guide This guide covers how to prepare for and take the PLAB 1 exam. There are resources and sample questions to help you get ready. We also explain the practicalities, including when and where you can sit it and how to book or cancel a place. The guide covers what to do on the day of the exam and how you can find out your results afterwards. Read this guide To find out everything you need to know to sit PLAB 1. Next steps Once you're ready to sit PLAB you will need to book through your GMC Online account under My Tests. Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 1 exam? - When and where can I take PLAB 1? - Information on booking a PLAB 1 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 1? - Sample questions for PLAB 1 - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - Your results - What do you do after you get your results? - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 1 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 1 result? - Misconduct procedures - Case study of a candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 1 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements Next What is the PLAB 1 exam? Related content PLAB 1 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 1 test.  Acceptable overseas qualificationsCheck your primary medical qualification is acceptable to sit the PLAB test. Evidence of your knowledge of EnglishDo you have the necessary knowledge of English to sit PLAB? PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 1. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. Get it done in GMC Online Did you know? Using GMC Online is the easiest way to book PLAB tests, pay fees and update your details with us. ===== what-is-the-plab-1-exam ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-1-guide/what-is-the-plab-1-exam What is the PLAB 1 exam? Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 1 exam? - When and where can I take PLAB 1? - Information on booking a PLAB 1 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 1? - Sample questions for PLAB 1 - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - Your results - What do you do after you get your results? - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 1 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 1 result? - Misconduct procedures - Case study of a candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 1 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements PLAB 1 is an applied knowledge test (AKT). It tests your ability to apply your knowledge for the care of patients, and not how well you can remember and recite facts. Questions relate to current best practice in the UK, and equipment routinely available in UK hospitals. You’ll need to answer the questions in relation to published evidence and not according to your local arrangements. PLAB 1 is compliant with the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements. What does the exam cover? The exam could cover any of the common, important or acute conditions (those common in emergency departments) seen by doctors appointed to a Foundation Programme Year 2 (F2) role, and the management of long-term conditions seen in primary care. It excludes the advanced duties of a general practitioner (GP). How do you answer the questions? 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. Please use the magnify tool above to view PLAB exam sheet example An example of the double-sided answer sheet given at the PLAB exam with instructions on how to complete it. Previous Summary Next When and where can I take PLAB 1? Related content PLAB 1 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 1 test.  Acceptable overseas qualificationsCheck your primary medical qualification is acceptable to sit the PLAB test. Evidence of your knowledge of EnglishDo you have the necessary knowledge of English to sit PLAB? PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 1. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. ===== when-and-where-can-i-take-plab-1 ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-1-guide/when-and-where-can-i-take-plab-1 When and where can I take PLAB 1? Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 1 exam? - When and where can I take PLAB 1? - Information on booking a PLAB 1 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 1? - Sample questions for PLAB 1 - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - Your results - What do you do after you get your results? - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 1 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 1 result? - Misconduct procedures - Case study of a candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 1 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements When can you take the exam? We run the exam four times a year. There are sittings in February, May, August and November. We hold the test in the UK and in a number of overseas locations. Details of scheduled PLAB 1 exam and results dates are available to view in ‘Your results’ section. Eligible candidates can view our current availability by registering for a GMC Online account and log into our PLAB booking service. Exam places are limited where demand is high, you may experience a wait for a test date. If you have a UK job offer in the NHS that requires GMC registration or hold UK refugee status, please contact us at plab@gmc-uk.org and we will try and offer you a test place as soon as we can. The number of places available for the PLAB exams is not linked to the number of jobs available and we recommend you read our advice to doctors thinking of applying. Where can you take the exam? The UK exams currently take place in: - Belfast - Birmingham - Cardiff - Edinburgh - London - Manchester The exam can also be taken in two EU locations: - Dublin - Madrid. If you’ve secured a booking at a UK or EU location, you’ll receive confirmation of your venue address within 7 days of your exam. This information will be sent to you by the GMC approved supplier VICTVS, who are responsible for delivering and invigilating UK and EU based PLAB 1 exams on behalf of the GMC. If your booking is for an exam taking place outside of the UK and EU, you’ll receive venue address details directly from the British Council. Once you have booked online, please only contact VICTVS or the relevant British Council office if you have not received details of the venue at least one week before the exam. Contact details for all exam locations are listed below. - Contact details for PLAB 1 exam locations Contact details for PLAB 1 exam locations CountryCityContact details Australia Sydney exam@britishcouncil.org.au BangladeshDhaka info.bd@britishcouncil.org +8809666773377 Canada Toronto CA.Exams@britishcouncil.org EgyptAlexandria information@britishcouncil.org.eg +20 (0) 2 19789 EgyptCairo information@britishcouncil.org.eg +20 (0) 2 19789 GhanaAccra infoghana@gh.britishcouncil.org +233 (0)30 2610090 IndiaBangaloreBCEEnquiries@britishcouncil.org IndiaChennaiBCEEnquiries@britishcouncil.org IndiaHyderabadBCEEnquiries@britishcouncil.org IndiaKolkataBCEEnquiries@britishcouncil.org IndiaMumbaiBCEEnquiries@britishcouncil.org IndiaNew DelhiBCEEnquiries@britishcouncil.org KenyaNairobi information@britishcouncil.or.ke +254 111 195600  NigeriaAbuja info.nigeria@ng.britishcouncil.org +234201460309(0-9), +2342017007955 NigeriaLagos info.nigeria@ng.britishcouncil.org +234201460309(0-9), +2342017007955 PakistanIslamabad info@britishcouncil.org.pk +92 51 111 424 424 PakistanKarachi info@britishcouncil.org.pk +92 51 111 424 424 Republic of Ireland  Dublin Support@victvs.com +44 1135397056  Saudi ArabiaRiyadh KSAinfo@sa.britishcouncil.org +966920003668 South AfricaJohannesburg ssa.enquiries@britishcouncil.org +27 11 560 9300 SpainMadrid Support@victvs.com +44 1135397056 Sri LankaColombo info.lk@britishcouncil.org +94 (0)11 7521 521 TurkeyIstanbul epe@britishcouncil.org.tr (0212) 355 56 57 UAEDubai information@ae.britishcouncil.org +971600 529 995 For all UK venue queries, please contact VICTVS by emailing Support@victvs.com or by calling +44 1135397056. Previous What is the PLAB 1 exam? Next Information on booking a PLAB 1 place Related content PLAB 1 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 1 test.  Acceptable overseas qualificationsCheck your primary medical qualification is acceptable to sit the PLAB test. Evidence of your knowledge of EnglishDo you have the necessary knowledge of English to sit PLAB? PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 1. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. Get it done in GMC Online Did you know? Using GMC Online is the easiest way to book PLAB tests, pay fees and update your details with us. Book on to our free workshop to make sure you’re ready for UK practice If you're just starting your career in the UK our essential induction workshop can help you. ===== information-on-booking-a-plab-1-place ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-1-guide/information-on-booking-a-plab-1-place Information on booking a PLAB 1 place Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 1 exam? - When and where can I take PLAB 1? - Information on booking a PLAB 1 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 1? - Sample questions for PLAB 1 - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - Your results - What do you do after you get your results? - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 1 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 1 result? - Misconduct procedures - Case study of a candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 1 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements Before you book a PLAB exam Doctors with an overseas medical qualification who are interested in joining the UK register should read our guidance on working as a doctor in the UK before deciding whether to book PLAB. Job vacancies for doctors vary by specialty, geographic location and change over time. The number of PLAB places is not directly linked to the number of job vacancies offered by employers, such as the NHS. Before making a booking, you should also consider factors such as visa processing times or travel/accommodation requirements. Am I eligible to book a PLAB 1 exam? You’ll need an acceptable overseas primary medical qualification. If you haven’t graduated yet, we will need confirmation you have passed your final examinations and have met all other requirements to be eligible for the qualification. You’ll also need to demonstrate you have the necessary knowledge of English by providing evidence. You can find information on how to demonstrate this in our Evidence of your knowledge of English guide. Our Influences on pass rates in PLAB examinations 2022 report shows that candidates who have passed IELTS or OET have more chance of passing PLAB 1 at the first attempt than those who have not. We, therefore, recommend you strongly consider taking IELTS or OET, even if you feel you may be able to provide alternative English language evidence. Once you have the above information you can set up a GMC Online account, and your English language evidence has been verified, you will have access to our booking service where you can book or cancel your place. If you have a GMC reference number but have not logged in to GMC Online since August 2021, you will need to update your account. There is also a limit on the number of times you can take the exam. Candidates can continue to take the exam until they have failed it four times. If you would like to take the exam again following your fourth failed attempt, you must apply for an additional attempt. If you fail this fifth and final attempt, you’ll no longer be eligible to take the exam. How do I book a PLAB 1 place? You can view available dates and book in our PLAB booking service in GMC Online. We carefully monitor demand and availability and will open new places in line with this. You can see when any new places are scheduled to open in the PLAB booking service.  How much does it cost? Please visit our Fees page for price listings. You can view these on the PLAB fees tab. Can I book a PLAB place through anyone else other than the GMC? No. Candidates can only book a PLAB place through their GMC Online account, and only the account holder must access the account.  Candidates must not share their information with any third party or attempt to book a place anywhere other than through GMC Online.  Sharing your account details with any third party is misconduct and may impact your PLAB booking or any future registration application. Doing so can also put your personal, financial and other online account information at risk. Are there any concessions for refugees? If you are a refugee doctor living in the UK, the fee for PLAB 1 will be free of charge for your first two attempts. Please book the exam online and contact us to arrange a refund. If you are having trouble booking a test date, please email the PLAB team for help. Read our information for refugee doctors living in the UK. Previous When and where can I take PLAB 1? Next Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions Related content PLAB 1 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 1 test.  Acceptable overseas qualificationsCheck your primary medical qualification is acceptable to sit the PLAB test. Evidence of your knowledge of EnglishDo you have the necessary knowledge of English to sit PLAB? PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 1. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. Get it done in GMC Online Did you know? Using GMC Online is the easiest way to book PLAB tests, pay fees and update your details with us. Free workshops for doctors new to the UK - Book now! Find out more about our essential professional standards, meet other doctors and get support for your transition to working in the UK. ===== cancelling-or-amending-your-booking-and-our-approach-to-other-exam-disruptions ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-1-guide/cancelling-or-amending-your-booking-and-our-approach-to-other-exam-disruptions Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 1 exam? - When and where can I take PLAB 1? - Information on booking a PLAB 1 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 1? - Sample questions for PLAB 1 - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - Your results - What do you do after you get your results? - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 1 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 1 result? - Misconduct procedures - Case study of a candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 1 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements How do you cancel your exam booking?  You can cancel your exam booking via our PLAB booking service, which you can access by logging into your GMC Online account. We will deduct a PLAB cancellation fee when you cancel your place. Can I swap my existing booking? If you hold a booking already, you can view other dates currently available in our PLAB booking service in GMC Online. If you want to book an alternative place, you must first cancel your current booking. Please be aware that we will deduct a PLAB cancellation fee at the time of cancellation. Once you’ve done this, you can book any other place you’re eligible for. Please read the guidance in the PLAB booking service carefully before doing so. Are you entitled to a refund of the cancellation fee? We'll consider giving you a full refund where exceptional circumstances arise that prevent you from attending your exam such as visa refusal, the introduction of travel restrictions, ill health or bereavement. If you believe you are entitled to a refund, you should first cancel your place and then email evidence of your circumstances. We will then consider whether we can refund your cancellation fee. What if you become unwell, or experience unexpected circumstances during your exam? Read our information about what to do on the day if you become unwell or experience unexpected and/or exceptional circumstances during the exam. What if the exam is cancelled by the GMC or their exam providers? We’re committed to offering PLAB 1 dates throughout the year at a wide number of venues, and we always plan to run these as scheduled. There may be rare occasions where it’s not possible for us to run an examination and it’s necessary for us to cancel. Should this occur, all affected candidates will be contacted with as much notice as possible. Any booking fees will be automatically refunded, and where possible, the opportunity to book an alternative date will be offered. The GMC will not be responsible for any expenses (such as costs for visas, travel or accommodation) incurred by any candidates in such an event, and we’re unable to offer reimbursement or compensation.    What if your eligibility to attempt PLAB runs out due to exceptional circumstances beyond your control? Our eligibility periods allow candidates significant time and opportunity to attempt the exam. However, we are aware that occasionally there are exceptional circumstances which impact a candidate’s ability to attempt the exam within these periods. These include things such as the outbreak of war, severe and ongoing health issues, challenges related to pregnancy/maternity, ongoing travel restrictions, and mandatory military service. If any of these issues impact you, please contact us as soon as possible. We will then consider what support we can offer you, such as arranging for you to sit an earlier date or extending your eligibility period to attempt the exam. Previous Information on booking a PLAB 1 place Next What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 1? Related content PLAB 1 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 1 test.  Acceptable overseas qualificationsCheck your primary medical qualification is acceptable to sit the PLAB test. Evidence of your knowledge of EnglishDo you have the necessary knowledge of English to sit PLAB? PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 1. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. ===== what-resources-should-you-use-to-prepare ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-1-guide/what-resources-should-you-use-to-prepare What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 1? Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 1 exam? - When and where can I take PLAB 1? - Information on booking a PLAB 1 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 1? - Sample questions for PLAB 1 - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - Your results - What do you do after you get your results? - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 1 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 1 result? - Misconduct procedures - Case study of a candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 1 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements The MLA content map The Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) content map is a guide to what the exam covers and can help you to prepare. It sets out the knowledge, skills and behaviours you are expected to demonstrate in the exam and beyond. All the topics and skills needed to pass are covered in the content map. The Foundation Programme curriculum All the topics and areas of clinical practice covered by the MLA content map match those typically faced by doctors starting the second year of their UK Foundation Programme training. This is how we make sure doctors who pass the PLAB test are at the same level as UK-qualified doctors.  Read the Foundation Programme curriculum. Guidance and interactive tools Good medical practice is our core advice to doctors on the standards we expect of them. You will be expected to demonstrate the professional values and behaviours set out in Good medical practice when you take the exam and when you practise as a doctor in the UK. You can build and test your knowledge of Good medical practice using: - explanatory guidance - Professional standards in action interactive online tool - Welcome to UK practice interactive online tool. Courses You don't need to attend a study or coaching course to pass, but we recognise that many candidates choose to do so. We don't offer courses, and we do not endorse or monitor the quality of courses given by others. If you decide to attend a course, it's your responsibility to check the credibility of the course and of those providing it, and to make sure that any actions you take as part your preparation don’t put you at risk of breaching our misconduct policy. In particular, if you attend any course that claims to provide you with GMC exam content, or asks you to share content from GMC exams you have attended, it is likely you will breach our misconduct policy. This could put your ability to undertake the exam, and to gain registration, at risk. Previous Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions Next Sample questions for PLAB 1 Related content PLAB 1 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 1 test.  Acceptable overseas qualificationsCheck your primary medical qualification is acceptable to sit the PLAB test. Evidence of your knowledge of EnglishDo you have the necessary knowledge of English to sit PLAB? PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 1. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. ===== sample-questions ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-1-guide/sample-questions Sample questions for PLAB 1 Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 1 exam? - When and where can I take PLAB 1? - Information on booking a PLAB 1 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 1? - Sample questions for PLAB 1 - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - Your results - What do you do after you get your results? - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 1 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 1 result? - Misconduct procedures - Case study of a candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 1 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements Please find a selection of 85 sample questions. These questions are accurate and valid at the time of publishing (December 2024). They are based on the MLA content map. Questions included in this set will not be used in any live exams. Previous What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 1? Next Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? Related content PLAB 1 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 1 test.  Acceptable overseas qualificationsCheck your primary medical qualification is acceptable to sit the PLAB test. Evidence of your knowledge of EnglishDo you have the necessary knowledge of English to sit PLAB? PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 1. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. Free workshops for doctors new to the UK - Book now! Find out more about our essential professional standards, meet other doctors and get support for your transition to working in the UK. ===== do-you-require-adjustments-to-your-exam-due-to-a-health-need ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-1-guide/do-you-require-adjustments-to-your-exam-due-to-a-health-need Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 1 exam? - When and where can I take PLAB 1? - Information on booking a PLAB 1 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 1? - Sample questions for PLAB 1 - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - Your results - What do you do after you get your results? - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 1 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 1 result? - Misconduct procedures - Case study of a candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 1 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements What can we do to support you? If you have an additional health need, you’ll need to inform us if it may impact your exam performance. You’ll also need to inform us if this means you require specific support or access to devices/medication on the day of your exam. We won’t be able to change the standard of the exam or make arrangements on the day if we weren’t aware of the support required previously. We offer adjustments on a case-by-case basis, using the information and evidence you provide. These are examples of reasonable adjustments we’ve made in the PLAB 1 exam:  Candidate requirement Motor difficulties and impaired vision Reasonable adjustment made: - We arranged for the candidate to take the exam in a regional office because they found travel difficult. - The candidate was given extra time to complete the exam. - We prepared all written material in large print and on maize-coloured paper. Dyslexia Reasonable adjustment made: - The candidate was given extra time to complete the exam. - They sat the exam in a separate room. - The candidate used a coloured overlay. Pregnancy or those with mobility difficulties Reasonable adjustment made: - Arranged for the candidate to sit near the toilet. - Allocated a female invigilator to escort the candidate to the toilet. - Considering permission of the use of a TENS machine during the exam. Type 2 diabetes Reasonable adjustment made: - The candidate was permitted to take glucose monitoring and insulin equipment into the exam (after inspection from invigilator). - The candidate was permitted to bring additional food items into exam. What do you need to do? So we can make a decision on any adjustments you must send us the following information: - Details of why you require a reasonable adjustment, such as the nature of your health needs - What adjustments you require or the barriers you need the adjustments to address - An original letter, certificate or medical report, from an appropriate professional confirming the nature of your health needs and the functional impact of the disability in an exam environment. - The letter, certificate or medical report must highlight which assessment the report is taking into consideration – ie part 1 (a multiple choice written exam) or part 2 (an OSCE examination) - The letter, certificate or medical report must also include recommendations for adjustments we could make. For example, if extra time is requested, your report should recommend how much additional time is required and what the considerations were in reaching this figure. If we receive a request without this information, it will delay our decision.  When do you need to do this? If you believe you need an adjustment, you should contact us before booking your exam to discuss this with us. This is to make sure we have time to review your request and agree a date that we can run an exam with the adjustments you require in place. If you book an exam before requesting any adjustments you need, this may mean we are not able to make the required adjustments for the exam you have booked on to. If you have already booked an exam and require adjustments, you should contact us as soon as possible. We may need to rearrange your test date to allow us time to put adjustments in place. What if you disagree with the adjustments we have offered? If you wish to request different adjustments to those we have offered, we may ask you for further information and evidence so we can consider your request further.  If you do not agree with our final decision, you can ask for this to be considered under our complaints procedure by emailing feedback@gmc-uk.org. Please contact us as soon as possible to discuss your requirements. Previous Sample questions for PLAB 1 Next What can you expect on the day? Related content PLAB 1 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 1 test.  Acceptable overseas qualificationsCheck your primary medical qualification is acceptable to sit the PLAB test. Evidence of your knowledge of EnglishDo you have the necessary knowledge of English to sit PLAB? PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 1. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. Book onto one of our free workshops! Find out more about how one of our free workshops can get you ready for UK practice. ===== what-can-you-expect-on-the-day ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-1-guide/what-can-you-expect-on-the-day What can you expect on the day? Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 1 exam? - When and where can I take PLAB 1? - Information on booking a PLAB 1 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 1? - Sample questions for PLAB 1 - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - Your results - What do you do after you get your results? - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 1 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 1 result? - Misconduct procedures - Case study of a candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 1 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements When should you arrive? When your exam is confirmed, we will tell you what time to arrive. You’ll receive confirmation of your venue address no later than 7 days before your exam date. This will be sent directly to you from either the British Council or VICTVS, depending on the location of your exam. If you are more than half an hour late, you will not be allowed to enter the examination room. You will not be allowed to leave the room in the first or last half hour of the examination. You can expect to be at the examination centre for at least four hours.  What should you bring with you? Identification Bring proof of identification with you. We accept a valid form of one of the following. - Passport - UK Immigration and Nationality Department identification document - Home Office travel document - UK driving licence - EU identity card If you don't have one of the above you can take the exam but you'll need to provide your identification document or evidence of change of name later in the process. A digital photograph and your signature will be obtained at the venue should you attend without acceptable ID evidence. Booking confirmation Bring the booking confirmation that includes your GMC reference number. If the name on your identification document is different from that on the booking confirmation from the GMC or British Council, you must also bring original evidence that you are the person named in that letter. We will accept: - marriage certificate - a declaration from the awarding body which granted your primary medical qualification, stating that both names relate to you. Stationery You should bring HB pencils, an eraser and a pencil sharpener. Other items You may bring a bottle of water in a clear bottle with all labels removed, one or two items of fruit to snack on. If you require access to a medical device or medication during your exam, please read our guidance on adjustments or support for a health need on your exam day. Candidates are reminded that the weather in the UK can become very cold during the winter months. You may take a jumper/cardigan in with you. There will be a dedicated area to leave personal belongings, however space may be limited, and you do so at your own risk. We advise you only to bring essential items with you. What can’t you take into the exam? You can't take the following into the exam: - mobile phones, calculators or electronic devices including smart/AI wearable technologies - coats, bags, or any other personal items or equipment - wristwatches (analogue, digital or smartwatches) The time will be visible in the examination hall and invigilators will provide you with time checks. There are no waiting areas for family and friends. They will not be allowed into the venue under any circumstance. What do you do if you are unwell on the exam day? Before the exam If you can’t attend the examination because of serious illness or another overwhelming problem, or if you begin to feel too unwell to start the exam after you arrive, please let us know as soon as possible. You also shouldn’t attend the PLAB test if you, or members of your household, are unwell with a contagious or communicable illness or are displaying symptoms. Inform us as soon as you can if you cannot attend. We reserve the right to ask any candidate to wear a mask, refuse entry to the test, or ask them to leave the centre at any time if we suspect they are unwell. During the exam By presenting yourself for the exam and choosing to start, you’re confirming that you are fit and well enough to be assessed. If this changes during the exam, and you’re not well enough to continue, you must tell an invigilator immediately. We may request medical evidence to support an unexpected onset of illness, so we can consider appropriate next steps.  What should you do if an unexpected or exceptional circumstance occurs during your exam? If you experience an unexpected circumstance or procedural irregularity during your exam, you shouldn’t wait until after you receive your results to notify us. This includes anything outside of your control which could have adversely affected your performance. You should tell an invigilator as soon as possible, and ideally before leaving the exam centre. This allows us to investigate the matter while it is fresh in everyone's mind and, where possible, resolve issues on the day. What conduct is expected during the exam? You should familiarise yourself with the misconduct procedures before attending the exam. Previous Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? Next Your results Related content PLAB 1 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 1 test.  Acceptable overseas qualificationsCheck your primary medical qualification is acceptable to sit the PLAB test. Evidence of your knowledge of EnglishDo you have the necessary knowledge of English to sit PLAB? PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 1. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. ===== your-results ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-1-guide/your-results Your results Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 1 exam? - When and where can I take PLAB 1? - Information on booking a PLAB 1 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 1? - Sample questions for PLAB 1 - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - Your results - What do you do after you get your results? - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 1 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 1 result? - Misconduct procedures - Case study of a candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 1 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements When do you get your results? Your results will be published six weeks after you take the exam. Should there be any delay in the publication of your results, we’ll contact you directly. Where do you get your results? When your PLAB 1 results are available, we'll send you an email telling you how to access them in the 'My Tests' section of GMC Online. Results will also remain available in GMC Online to candidates who go on to gain registration. If you’re unable to view your results in GMC Online, please contact us. Please be aware that we can't give results by telephone or at our reception. Exam and result dates for recent and upcoming PLAB 1 tests Exam dateResult date  6 November 2025 18 December 2025 by 4 pm 12 February 2026 26 March 2026 by 4pm 21 May 2026 2 July 2026 by 4pm How do we work out your score? Each correct answer you give is worth one mark, and the total number of correct answers you give will be your score. In your results we will tell you your total score, the score required to pass the exam and the average score for all candidates. How do we provide feedback on your performance? We group the exam questions into ten main areas of clinical practice, based on the MLA content map - Reproductive health - Renal and urology - Neurosciences and senses (including skins) - Musculoskeletal - Mental health - Gastrointestinal - Endocrine metabolic, and clinical haematology - Child and adolescent health - Cardiorespiratory - Ethics and other We will tell you the percentage of the questions you answered correctly in each of these areas. We will also tell you the average percentage of questions all candidates answered correctly in each of these areas.  How do we set the pass mark? We set the pass mark for each test using the internationally recognised Angoff method and include one standard error of measurement. By doing this, we make sure the level at which we set the pass mark is consistent over time. It reflects what we expect of a doctor entering their second year of Foundation Programme training. After each test a team of experts reviews the question paper in light of how candidates have performed, to make sure all the questions and answers are fair. Candidates are at all stages of their career and there is no expected pass rate or average score. We may change our standard setting procedures from time to time without notice. Previous What can you expect on the day? Next What do you do after you get your results? Related content PLAB 1 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 1 test.  Acceptable overseas qualificationsCheck your primary medical qualification is acceptable to sit the PLAB test. Evidence of your knowledge of EnglishDo you have the necessary knowledge of English to sit PLAB? PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 1. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. ===== what-do-you-do-after-you-get-your-results ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-1-guide/what-do-you-do-after-you-get-your-results What do you do after you get your results? Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 1 exam? - When and where can I take PLAB 1? - Information on booking a PLAB 1 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 1? - Sample questions for PLAB 1 - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - Your results - What do you do after you get your results? - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 1 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 1 result? - Misconduct procedures - Case study of a candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 1 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements What do you do after you pass? If you pass PLAB 1 you can immediately apply to take PLAB 2 using GMC Online. The available PLAB 2 test dates can be seen in GMC Online once you have your PLAB 1 results.   You can't apply for PLAB 2 before the results have been issued.  You must pass PLAB 2 within two years of passing PLAB 1. Please note that your pass date is the date you took the test, and not the date your results were issued. What do you do if you fail? If you fail PLAB 1, you can book to take the exam again provided you still meet all the requirements. You can continue to attempt the exam until you have failed it four times. If you’ve failed the exam four times, you can apply for one final attempt. You will need to demonstrate evidence of additional learning over a 12 month period and make an application to us. Can you have your results checked? No, this is a service we no longer offer. After reviewing our processes, we’re confident that our marking is robust, and that a manual check won’t change the result. However, you can still appeal your result. Previous Your results Next Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 1 attempt? Related content PLAB 1 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 1 test.  Acceptable overseas qualificationsCheck your primary medical qualification is acceptable to sit the PLAB test. Evidence of your knowledge of EnglishDo you have the necessary knowledge of English to sit PLAB? PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 1. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. Free workshops for doctors new to the UK - Book now! Find out more about our essential professional standards, meet other doctors and get support for your transition to working in the UK. ===== are-you-eligible-for-an-additional-plab-1-attempt ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-1-guide/are-you-eligible-for-an-additional-plab-1-attempt Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 1 attempt? Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 1 exam? - When and where can I take PLAB 1? - Information on booking a PLAB 1 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 1? - Sample questions for PLAB 1 - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - Your results - What do you do after you get your results? - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 1 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 1 result? - Misconduct procedures - Case study of a candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 1 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements If you’ve had four failed attempts at either PLAB 1 or 2, you’ll need to make an application if you wish to sit the exam for the fifth and final time. When can you apply for an additional attempt? You can’t apply for an additional attempt immediately after your fourth fail. You’ll need to complete at least 12 months of additional learning and development after your fourth failed attempt, for us to consider any application for an additional fifth attempt. This period is intended for remedial learning and professional development to give you the best chance of success in any final, exceptional attempt. What is the purpose of our requirements for an additional attempt? When a candidate hasn’t met our standards in the exam on four separate occasions, it indicates that their skills and knowledge aren’t currently at the level we’d expect of a doctor seeking registration in the UK. Therefore, our requirements are designed to give candidates an appropriate opportunity to develop their medical skills and knowledge so that they are sufficiently prepared to take their final attempt. To provide us with assurance that a candidate has appropriately developed their knowledge and skills, we therefore require evidence to demonstrate work or study that is likely to increase their knowledge and skills as a doctor. How can you demonstrate you’re eligible for an additional attempt? Following your fourth failed attempt, you need to demonstrate that you’ve undertaken further learning to improve your medical knowledge and clinical skills. You can evidence this by completion of either: - 12 months of clinical practice - a relevant postgraduate qualification. The above must be evidenced within the application and meet our criteria for us to consider granting an additional attempt. Our evidence suggests that experience in other roles or courses in a clinical environment, or honorary posts involving observation (such as clinical attachments, shadowing, observerships and clerkships), does not provide the right level of assurance to either us or candidates. How to apply for an additional attempt Using evidence of clinical practice You should provide fully completed structured report formreports from senior doctors responsible for supervising your work during the 12 month period, to show satisfactory completion. You should also complete the application form and return all documentation to us at plab@gmc-uk.org for our assessment. Information provided must be verifiable, and demonstrate that: - Clinical practice involved direct patient care full time (or equivalent part time basis) and was undertaken in an institution that meets the standards for regulation within its jurisdiction. - Each post was at least two months in duration, and within the last two years before making the application. - Referees are independent, and include a professional email address.Reports from relatives or individuals with whom you have a personal or financial interest will be rejected. Using evidence of your post graduate qualification You need to provide evidence of your postgraduate qualification, including a copy of your certificate from the awarding institution and a copy of the course curriculum. You should also complete the application form and return it to us along with the evidence to plab@gmc-uk.org for our assessment. Information provided must be verifiable, and demonstrate that: - It is a clinical qualification that requires a primary medical degree or other medically relevant degree for entry. - It has been completed over at least one academic year (or equivalent part time basis), and within the last two years before making the application. - The qualification is not an Honorary qualification. - Undertaken in an institution that meets the standards for regulation within its jurisdiction. What happens if I’m granted an additional attempt? If you are granted an additional attempt at PLAB 1, you may need to submit valid English language evidence for verification before you are able to book. If you are granted an additional attempt at PLAB 2, you may need to sit PLAB 1 again if your PLAB 1 validity has expired. This may also mean you have to submit further English language evidence in line with our PLAB 1 eligibility criteria. What happens if I fail the fifth attempt? We can’t grant further attempts beyond the fifth and final attempt. If you’ve had five failed attempts at either part of PLAB 1 or 2, you’re no longer eligible to take the test or apply for an additional attempt. Previous What do you do after you get your results? Next How do you appeal your PLAB 1 result? Related content PLAB 1 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 1 test.  Acceptable overseas qualificationsCheck your primary medical qualification is acceptable to sit the PLAB test. Evidence of your knowledge of EnglishDo you have the necessary knowledge of English to sit PLAB? PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 1. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. Book onto one of our free workshops! Find out more about how one of our free workshops can get you ready for UK practice. ===== how-do-you-appeal-your-plab-1-result ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-1-guide/how-do-you-appeal-your-plab-1-result How do you appeal your PLAB 1 result? Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 1 exam? - When and where can I take PLAB 1? - Information on booking a PLAB 1 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 1? - Sample questions for PLAB 1 - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - Your results - What do you do after you get your results? - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 1 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 1 result? - Misconduct procedures - Case study of a candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 1 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements Who can appeal their result? Candidates who have attempted any part of the exam have grounds to appeal their result if their performance has been adversely affected by: - irregularity in the conduct of the exam, including administrative errors - unexpected and/or exceptional circumstances that arose during the exam. If your performance was affected by the above, and this was not resolved on the day of the exam, you are advised to submit information as soon as possible and not wait until after you receive your results. This is to make sure you submit information while it is still fresh in your mind, and will allow us to look into any issues as soon as possible. We will not accept an appeal for other reasons, such as: - you consider that your efforts were under-marked - you did not understand or were unaware of the exam procedures - you seek to question the exercise of professional or academic judgement. How do you appeal? You must contact us regarding your appeal within ten working days of the publication of your results. You must provide a full explanation and any evidence to explain: - what happened - how this adversely affected your performance - how this meets our grounds for appealing your result. If you submit your appeal later than our deadline, you must include an explanation and evidence to explain why you could not submit it sooner. We will then decide whether we can still consider your appeal. How do we consider your appeal? If we consider you have sufficient grounds for appeal, we will submit all relevant information and evidence to a decision maker. The decision maker will then decide whether to uphold your appeal and offer an appropriate resolution if they do. We will inform you of our decision and offer any resolution in writing. What are the potential resolutions to an appeal? If we decide to uphold your appeal, we may consider the following: - annulling your result - allowing you a free attempt - allowing you an additional attempt - any combination of the above. Other options may be considered at the discretion of the decision maker. If we decide the appeal is unsubstantiated or outside the permitted grounds, we will let you know. What if you want to submit feedback or a complaint, and not an appeal? If you want to provide feedback or make a complaint about any aspect of the exam, you can email us at feedback@gmc-uk.org. We may reclassify appeals as complaints, or vice-versa, at any stage in proceedings. We will let you know if we think this is required and consider any response you provide. Previous Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 1 attempt? Next Misconduct procedures Related content PLAB 1 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 1 test.  Acceptable overseas qualificationsCheck your primary medical qualification is acceptable to sit the PLAB test. Evidence of your knowledge of EnglishDo you have the necessary knowledge of English to sit PLAB? PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 1. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. Book onto one of our free workshops! Find out more about how one of our free workshops can get you ready for UK practice. ===== misconduct-procedures ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-1-guide/misconduct-procedures Misconduct procedures Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 1 exam? - When and where can I take PLAB 1? - Information on booking a PLAB 1 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 1? - Sample questions for PLAB 1 - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - Your results - What do you do after you get your results? - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 1 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 1 result? - Misconduct procedures - Case study of a candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 1 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements What is misconduct? Misconduct is any unacceptable or improper behaviour related to any part of the exam process. It can occur before, during or after the exam day, and may relate to associated processes such as booking a place or providing documentation. Examples of misconduct include, but are not limited to: During the exam: - not complying with the reasonable instructions of an invigilator or other examination official - viewing the work of another candidate, or attempting to do so - removing materials or content (including the use of recording devices) from an examination other than those specifically permitted - bringing materials other than those specifically permitted into the exam - communicating with another candidate whilst under exam conditions - impersonation of a candidate - disruptive behaviour during an exam - aiding or abetting any of the above. Other activities associated with the exam: - providing false details to book test places - circumventing, or attempting to circumvent, our software security or system access control measures - using third parties or automated bot software to book test places - seeking to profit from the acquisition and sale of test places - gaining information about the exam questions in advance of your exam date - bribery, or attempted bribery, of any party involved with the exam - sharing exam content in any way, including in both private conversations and on social media or other online forums - releasing content from any exam to a third party/commercial organisation - providing false information or evidence, for example to support a refund request or appeal attempt - aiding or abetting others with the above. What happens if you are suspected of misconduct? If you are suspected of misconduct we will: - take any reasonable action to prevent continuation of the suspected misconduct while we investigate the matter - clearly document the relevant details - allow you the opportunity to respond in writing. If we determine there is sufficient evidence of misconduct, a decision maker will consider the matter. We will: - Submit all relevant information and evidence (including your written response) to the decision maker for a decision - Inform you of the decision and any penalties applied in writing. What are the penalties for misconduct? Standard penalties can include, but are not limited to: - written advice - results of an examination to be annulled - candidate barred from booking or entering future examinations for a specified period - reporting the matter to our registrar so they can take it into account when considering a future application for registration - any combination of any of the above. Will you be able to appeal the outcome? If you wish to appeal, you must provide significant new information or evidence and you must clearly explain how this meets at least one of the following requirements: - the new information/evidence has not been considered by the original decision maker  - the new information/evidence shows that the penalty applied should be reconsidered - the new information/evidence shows there has been a procedural or administrative error in the handling of the misconduct allegation. You must do this within 10 days of the decision. If you provide this, the matter will be passed to a senior decision maker to consider further. If your response does not meet the requirements for an appeal, we will let you know. We will inform you in writing of the outcome of your appeal. This decision will be final. We may reclassify appeals as complaints, or vice-versa, at any stage in proceedings. We will let you know if we think this is required and consider any response you provide. Previous How do you appeal your PLAB 1 result? Next Case study of a candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam Related content PLAB 1 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 1 test.  Acceptable overseas qualificationsCheck your primary medical qualification is acceptable to sit the PLAB test. Evidence of your knowledge of EnglishDo you have the necessary knowledge of English to sit PLAB? PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 1. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. Free workshops for doctors new to the UK - Book now! Find out more about our essential professional standards, meet other doctors and get support for your transition to working in the UK. ===== case-study ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-1-guide/case-study Sorry, we can’t find the page you’re looking for The page may have been moved, updated or deleted. Please try one of the links at the top of the page or use the search below to find what you are looking for. You can search our website using the search box below. Search ===== anti-bribery-policy ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-1-guide/anti-bribery-policy Sorry, we can’t find the page you’re looking for The page may have been moved, updated or deleted. Please try one of the links at the top of the page or use the search below to find what you are looking for. You can search our website using the search box below. Search ===== mla-requirements ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-1-guide/mla-requirements Sorry, we can’t find the page you’re looking for The page may have been moved, updated or deleted. Please try one of the links at the top of the page or use the search below to find what you are looking for. You can search our website using the search box below. Search