PLAB 2 guide — Objective Structured Clinical Examination

===== plab-2-guide ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-2-guide PLAB 2 guide This guide includes information about the PLAB 2 exam. It explains what the test is, what happens on the day of the test and what you need to do when you get your results. There are resources and sample questions to help you prepare, information on when and where you can sit PLAB 2 and details on how to book or cancel an exam place. You will find guidance on what to do on the day of the exam and how you can find out your results afterwards. You can also find the procedures that govern the test within this guide. Read this guide To find out everything you need to know to sit PLAB 2. 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 2 exam? - How will you be tested? - When and where can you take PLAB 2? - Information on booking a PLAB 2 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 2? - A sample OSCE station - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - How do you get your PLAB 2 results? - Understanding your results - What do you do after you get your results - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 2 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 2 result? - Misconduct procedure - Case study of candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 2 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements Next What is the PLAB 2 exam? Related content PLAB 2 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 2 test. PLAB 2 overview videoWatch our video which shows what you can expect when you take PLAB 2. PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 2. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. ===== what-is-the-plab-2-exam ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-2-guide/what-is-the-plab-2-exam What is the PLAB 2 exam? Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 2 exam? - How will you be tested? - When and where can you take PLAB 2? - Information on booking a PLAB 2 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 2? - A sample OSCE station - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - How do you get your PLAB 2 results? - Understanding your results - What do you do after you get your results - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 2 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 2 result? - Misconduct procedure - Case study of candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 2 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements PLAB 2 is a clinical and professional skills assessment (CPSA). It’s a performance-based assessment of clinical and professional skills, knowledge and behaviours. The exam is made up of 16 scenarios, each lasting eight minutes and aims to reflect real life settings including a mock consultation or an acute ward.  You may also know this style of assessment as an objective structured clinical exam (OSCE). PLAB 2 is compliant with the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements. What does the exam cover? The exam could cover anything a doctor appointed to a Foundation Programme Year 2 (F2) role might expect to see at work. It tests your clinical knowledge, skills and behaviours, and your ability to apply this knowledge to the care of patients. It is not intended to test how well you can remember and recite facts. All the questions relate to current best practice. You should answer them in relation to published evidence and not according to your local arrangements. Names of drugs referred to in the exam are those contained in the most recent edition of the British National Formulary (BNF). How do you answer the questions? After reading the instructions and patient information outside each room, you will enter the exam cubicle and complete the task outlined. There will be a timer that announces when to move on. Find out more in the chapter, 'What can you expect on the day?'.  There will be at least two rest stations, allowing you to take breaks. The whole exam will take around three hours. Previous Summary Next How will you be tested? Book onto one of our free workshops! Find out more about how one of our free workshops can get you ready for UK practice. Related content PLAB 2 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 2 test. PLAB 2 overview videoWatch our video which shows what you can expect when you take PLAB 2. PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 2. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. ===== how-will-you-be-tested ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-2-guide/how-will-you-be-tested How will you be tested? Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 2 exam? - How will you be tested? - When and where can you take PLAB 2? - Information on booking a PLAB 2 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 2? - A sample OSCE station - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - How do you get your PLAB 2 results? - Understanding your results - What do you do after you get your results - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 2 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 2 result? - Misconduct procedure - Case study of candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 2 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements The domains you will be marked against During the exam you will be marked against three areas or ‘domains' for each scenario. When marking against the domains, the examiner will assess your competency across a number of skill areas. 1. Data gathering, technical and assessment skills History taking, physical examination, practical procedures, investigations leading to a diagnosis. 2. Clinical management skills Formulating a diagnosis, explaining something to the patient, formulating a management plan. 3. Interpersonal skills How you approach the station: whether you establish a rapport with the patient, how you use open and closed questioning, involving the patient and demonstrating your professionalism and understanding of ethical principles.  - Clinical examination Most of the stations will involve a simulated patient. You should interact with the actor as you would a real patient, including requesting to perform any relevant clinical examinations. You should begin each station by confirming your name and GMC number. This is important as the examiner may not always be present in the room and may be watching remotely. In some rooms you will find telephone consultation stations; the call will be connected for you before you enter the room. It is important you do not touch the phone or monitor as this will disconnect your call. In some stations, you will be assessed on your ability to conduct a physical examination of the simulated patient, or using a model or manikin. We expect you to be able to carry out any basic physical examinations, including but not limited to examination of the abdomen, breast, chest, hand, heart, and joints. You must be able to perform a rectal or bimanual vaginal examination. You must also be able to use the appropriate equipment in carrying out an examination of the ear, eye or nervous system.    You may be required to perform an examination or other procedure on a high-fidelity simulator which can be programmed to show normal and abnormal clinical signs. A role player may speak from outside the room using a microphone connected to the simulator. You can find more information and a video on the manufacturer’s website. Examination of someone's mental state is a form of clinical examination for the purpose of the PLAB 2 exam. - Practical skills Practical skills The examiner will assess you on your ability to perform common practical procedures. The practical skills may include: - checking blood pressure - performing venepuncture - inserting a cannula into a peripheral vein - calculating drug dosage - giving intravenous injections - mixing and injecting drugs into an intravenous bag - giving intramuscular and subcutaneous injections - basic cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (adult and child) - suturing interpreting an electrocardiogram (ECG), X-rays or results of other investigations - interpreting basic respiratory function tests - performing urinary catheterisation - taking a cervical smear - safe disposal of sharps. - Interpersonal skills We test these skills by observing the interaction between you and another person, usually a simulated patient or occasionally the examiner. These interactions can take place in person, in writing (eg, a prescription), or via telephone call. The examiner will assess your approach to the patient throughout the examination, even if they are not present in the room. This may include: - explaining diagnosis, investigation and treatment - involving the patient in the decision-making - communicating with relatives - communicating with health care professionals - breaking bad news - providing clear, legible written instructions where appropriate (eg. prescribing) - seeking informed consent/clarification for an invasive procedure or obtaining consent for a post-mortem - dealing with anxious patients or relatives - giving instructions on discharge from hospital - giving advice on lifestyle, health promotion or risk factors. As we may use an anatomical model in some stations it's important to remember the following:  - Tell the examiner what you are doing and why only if the instructions tell you to. - Don't perform any actions on an anatomical model that would be unsafe or painful for a real person. Previous What is the PLAB 2 exam? Next When and where can you take PLAB 2? 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. Related content PLAB 2 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 2 test. PLAB 2 overview videoWatch our video which shows what you can expect when you take PLAB 2. PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 2. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. ===== when-and-where-can-you-take-plab-2 ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-2-guide/when-and-where-can-you-take-plab-2 When and where can you take PLAB 2? Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 2 exam? - How will you be tested? - When and where can you take PLAB 2? - Information on booking a PLAB 2 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 2? - A sample OSCE station - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - How do you get your PLAB 2 results? - Understanding your results - What do you do after you get your results - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 2 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 2 result? - Misconduct procedure - Case study of candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 2 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements Where can you take PLAB 2? PLAB 2 is held at our two assessment centre sites in Manchester, UK: GMC Clinical Assessment Centre 3 Hardman Square Manchester M3 3EB Find our Hardman Square address on Google Maps GMC Clinical Assessment Centre 3 Hardman Street Manchester M3 3AW Find our Hardman Street address on Google Maps Your booking confirmation will confirm which test centre you should attend, including the address. As the addresses look very similar, please make sure you check this information carefully before arrival. Addresses for all GMC offices can be found on our Contact us page. PLAB 2 test dates We run PLAB 2 test dates throughout the year. You can view available dates in our PLAB booking service via GMC Online. You can only do this once you have your PLAB 1 results.  Where demand for PLAB 2 places 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'll try and offer you a test place as soon as we can. The number of places in our PLAB exams is not linked to the number of jobs available and we recommend you read our advice to doctors thinking of applying. Previous How will you be tested? Next Information on booking a PLAB 2 place 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. Related content PLAB 2 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 2 test. PLAB 2 overview videoWatch our video which shows what you can expect when you take PLAB 2. PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 2. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. ===== information-on-booking-a-plab-2-place ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-2-guide/information-on-booking-a-plab-2-place Information on booking a PLAB 2 place Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 2 exam? - How will you be tested? - When and where can you take PLAB 2? - Information on booking a PLAB 2 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 2? - A sample OSCE station - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - How do you get your PLAB 2 results? - Understanding your results - What do you do after you get your results - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 2 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 2 result? - Misconduct procedure - Case study of candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 2 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 2 exam? To book PLAB 2 you must have an acceptable overseas primary medical qualification and a valid PLAB 1 pass. 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. You are limited to four attempts to pass the exam. 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 2 place? You can view available dates and book in our PLAB booking service in GMC Online. How much does it cost? Please visit our Fees page for price listings.  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 part 2 will be reduced by 50% for your first two attempts. Please book the examination online and contact us to arrange a refund. If you are having trouble booking a test date, please email PLAB@gmc-uk.org for help. Read our information for refugee doctors living in the UK. Previous When and where can you take PLAB 2? Next Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other disruptions Related content PLAB 2 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 2 test. PLAB 2 overview videoWatch our video which shows what you can expect when you take PLAB 2. PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 2. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. ===== cancelling-or-amending-your-booking-and-our-approach-to-other-disruptions ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-2-guide/cancelling-or-amending-your-booking-and-our-approach-to-other-disruptions Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other disruptions Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 2 exam? - How will you be tested? - When and where can you take PLAB 2? - Information on booking a PLAB 2 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 2? - A sample OSCE station - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - How do you get your PLAB 2 results? - Understanding your results - What do you do after you get your results - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 2 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 2 result? - Misconduct procedure - Case study of candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 2 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements How do you cancel your exam booking? You can cancel your exam booking in 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 2 dates throughout the year, 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, we will contact all affected candidates with as much notice as possible. We will automatically refund any booking fees, and we will offer the opportunity to book an alternative date where possible. 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 2 place Next What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 2? Related content PLAB 2 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 2 test. PLAB 2 overview videoWatch our video which shows what you can expect when you take PLAB 2. PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 2. 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-2-guide/what-resources-should-you-use-to-prepare What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 2? Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 2 exam? - How will you be tested? - When and where can you take PLAB 2? - Information on booking a PLAB 2 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 2? - A sample OSCE station - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - How do you get your PLAB 2 results? - Understanding your results - What do you do after you get your results - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 2 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 2 result? - Misconduct procedure - Case study of candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 2 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements Here are some useful resources which you can use to help you prepare for the PLAB 2 exam.  The MLA content map The Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) content map is a guide to what the exam covers and can help you prepare. It sets out the core knowledge, skills and behaviours you’re expected to demonstrate in the exam and UK practice. All the topics and skills needed to pass are covered in the content map. The Foundation Programme curriculum All the topics and skill areas 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. How to avoid common errors in the PLAB 2 exam Read our examiners' top tips on how to avoid common errors in the part 2 exam. Read our blog about passing PLAB: 9 top tips from an examiner. Previous Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other disruptions Next A sample OSCE station Related content PLAB 2 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 2 test. PLAB 2 overview videoWatch our video which shows what you can expect when you take PLAB 2. PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 2. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. ===== a-sample-osce-station ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-2-guide/a-sample-osce-station A sample OSCE station Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 2 exam? - How will you be tested? - When and where can you take PLAB 2? - Information on booking a PLAB 2 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 2? - A sample OSCE station - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - How do you get your PLAB 2 results? - Understanding your results - What do you do after you get your results - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 2 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 2 result? - Misconduct procedure - Case study of candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 2 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements This is the type of OSCE station you can expect to find at the PLAB 2 exam. What will a scenario look like? You are in a mock consultation with a patient played by a role player who has been briefed about their condition. You are a Foundation Year 2 doctor in General Practice. You are told that your patient James Horton, aged 45, has called to complain of pain in his head. You are not given any other information. You must assess and manage the patient over the telephone. You’ll been given 8 minutes to complete the scenario. What will the examiner be looking for? The examiner wants to see you demonstrating the behaviours that we expect of a doctor. They will mark you against the three domains: - Data-gathering skills, technical and assessment skills  - Clinical management skills - Interpersonal skills. What will you need to demonstrate to pass? - Take a history of the patient's head pain, including occurrences, location, duration, triggers, associated symptoms.  - Take a medical history of any medication or trauma.  - Find out appropriate lifestyle history (eg alcohol, diet, sex, sleep).  - Identify patient concerns, listen appropriately and display empathy.  - Make a diagnosis of possible migraine. - Recommend appropriate management.  - Conduct the consultation fluently and professionally. Additional information You may be asked to complete a station which contains a prescribing element. We have included resources below that you may come across when asked to complete a prescription in a station. Depending on the scenario, some of the prescription documentation may appear differently to those provided below. You will be given everything you need to complete the station successfully. - Sample drug card - Sample adult intravenous fluid chart - Sample child fluid prescription chart - Sample child daily fluid balance and prescription chart - Sample blood prescription chart - Sample blood prescription and administration chart - Sample syringe driver chart - Sample news chart Previous What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 2? Next Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? Book onto one of our free workshops! Find out more about how one of our free workshops can get you ready for UK practice. Related content PLAB 2 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 2 test. PLAB 2 overview videoWatch our video which shows what you can expect when you take PLAB 2. PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 2. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. ===== do-you-have-a-health-need-that-may-require-adjustments ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-2-guide/do-you-have-a-health-need-that-may-require-adjustments 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 ===== what-can-you-expect-on-the-day ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-2-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 2 exam? - How will you be tested? - When and where can you take PLAB 2? - Information on booking a PLAB 2 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 2? - A sample OSCE station - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - How do you get your PLAB 2 results? - Understanding your results - What do you do after you get your results - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 2 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 2 result? - Misconduct procedure - Case study of candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 2 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements Take a look at the PLAB 2 video below which gives an overview of what you can expect on the day. Playing video sets a cookie, see our Click to read ourcookie policyLink opens in a new tab Go to transcript - When you arrive When you arrive You'll be sent an email before your exam date with your allocated time of arrival. You should allow plenty of time to travel to the Clinical Assessment Centre. Pay careful attention to the address of your test venue. We have two centres operating in Manchester, and the addresses look very similar. It’s important that you arrive at your allocated time. If you arrive early, you may be asked to leave the building until your arrival time. If you’re late you won’t be able to take the exam. We’ll ask for your proof of identity document. Your photograph will be taken, and you’ll be given an ID badge which you’ll need to wear throughout the exam. Everything you need will be provided in the exam, including all necessary equipment. You can't bring books, electronic devices including smart/AI wearable technologies, or watches into the exam. 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. - During the exam During the exam You’ll find some scenarios will have manikins or other equipment. Others will use an actor to play the part of a patient. During each of the exam stations you will be observed by an examiner, either in person, by telephone or via a remote camera. Examiners will not intervene, except in very limited circumstances. You’ll have eight minutes to complete each station. Before starting each scenario, you’ll have 1 minute and 30 seconds to travel to the next room and to read the instructions. Our test venues operate independently, so candidates sitting the test on the same day at different venues will not take the same exam. You can't talk to other candidates or write down or copy any details about the exam while you’re taking it. Your exam may be recorded for quality or training purposes. - What should you bring with you? What should you bring with you Identification Bring proof of identification with you. We accept any one of the following*: - Passport - Full UK driving licence** - Identity card (with a machine-readable zone) * Those with refugee status, please provide an up to date eVisa share code, one month prior to your PLAB 2 test date. This will be used to complete your ID check on the day of your exam. Application Registration Cards (ARC) aren’t accepted as evidence of identity. **Provisional driving licences are not acceptable. 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. If the name on your identification document is different from that on the booking confirmation from the GMC, you must 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. If you do not provide satisfactory evidence of your identity, you will need to attend a further ID check at the point you apply for registration. Personal belongings Please only bring essential items with you. You’ll be allocated a small locker and will need to put all personal items inside, including your phone and any other non-permitted items. Once you’ve locked your belongings away you will not be able to revisit your locker until your exam has finished. - What is the dress code? - Dress as you would to work in a UK hospital ward or other clinical setting, as described in the NHS guidance on uniforms and workwear. - Your attire should therefore meet the requirements of patient safety and public confidence, and as far as possible you should feel comfortable in what you wear, including being able to dress in line with your cultural practices and beliefs. - It is good practice to be bare to the elbow with no watches, bracelets or rings. We can provide sleeve covers for you to wear if you require them. - Sections 5.3 to 5.6 of the NHS guidance advise on other specific areas such as the wearing of ties, long hair, and any headwear. - Any candidates wishing to wear a protective face mask can do so, though this is not mandatory. Masks can be provided on request should you need one on the day. - You may also need to wear a GMC lanyard while you are in the GMC building, and we will provide this on the day - What conduct is expected during the exam? You can read the misconduct procedures for more information. - What do you do if you're unwell on the exam day? What do you do if you’re 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 a GMC staff member 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? 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 a member of staff as soon as possible, and ideally before leaving the Clinical Assessment Centre on the day of your exam. This allows us to investigate the matter while it is fresh in everyone's mind and, where possible, resolve issues on the day. Previous Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? Next How do you get your PLAB 2 results? Related content PLAB 2 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 2 test. PLAB 2 overview videoWatch our video which shows what you can expect when you take PLAB 2. PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 2. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. ===== your-results ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-2-guide/your-results 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 ===== what-do-you-do-after-you-get-your-results ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-2-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 2 exam? - How will you be tested? - When and where can you take PLAB 2? - Information on booking a PLAB 2 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 2? - A sample OSCE station - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - How do you get your PLAB 2 results? - Understanding your results - What do you do after you get your results - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 2 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 2 result? - Misconduct procedure - Case study of candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 2 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements What do you do after you pass? When reading this guidance, please note that your pass date is the date you took the test, and not the date your results are issued. Applying for registration When you pass the exam, you can apply for registration with a licence to practise. You should have your application for registration with a licence to practise in the UK approved within two years of passing PLAB 2.  If you have passed PLAB 2 more than two years ago, you will need to provide additional evidence of your knowledge and skills. Once you have submitted your application, we will contact you to let you know exactly what’s needed. For more information on applying for registration with a licence to practise, please see our before you apply guide. English language evidence for registration At the point of applying for registration, you’ll need to demonstrate valid English language evidence. You should be mindful that evidence previously accepted for the purpose of PLAB 1 may have expired before you're able to register with us. If you’re in this situation there are several different ways you can demonstrate your knowledge of English which you can read about in our evidence of your knowledge of English guide. Additionally, we currently accept a recent PLAB 2 pass at registration as evidence that you’ve maintained your English language skills. To be eligible for this when you apply for registration you must have: - passed PLAB 2 less than three months before you apply to join the register - achieved our minimum scores in IELTs or OET less than three years ago. We’ll automatically consider whether you meet these criteria when you apply for registration. You don’t have to provide us with any further information.  We continue to be as flexible as we can be while upholding our responsibility for patient safety and making sure all doctors practising in the UK have the required English language skills. Welcome to UK practice We’d encourage you to sign up for one of our free Welcome to UK practice workshops once you join the register.  These are designed to help doctors new to the UK, by offering practical guidance about ethical scenarios you may encounter, and the chance to connect with other internationally-qualified doctors. You can book your place in GMC Online. What do you do if you fail? If you fail the exam, you can book to take the exam again provided you 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 Understanding your results Next Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 2 attempt? Related content PLAB 2 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 2 test. PLAB 2 overview videoWatch our video which shows what you can expect when you take PLAB 2. PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 2. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. ===== are-you-eligible-for-an-additional-plab-2-attempt ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-2-guide/are-you-eligible-for-an-additional-plab-2-attempt Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 2 attempt? Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 2 exam? - How will you be tested? - When and where can you take PLAB 2? - Information on booking a PLAB 2 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 2? - A sample OSCE station - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - How do you get your PLAB 2 results? - Understanding your results - What do you do after you get your results - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 2 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 2 result? - Misconduct procedure - Case study of candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 2 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 2 result? Book onto one of our free workshops! Find out more about how one of our free workshops can get you ready for UK practice. Related content PLAB 2 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 2 test. PLAB 2 overview videoWatch our video which shows what you can expect when you take PLAB 2. PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 2. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. ===== how-do-you-appeal-your-plab-2-result ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-2-guide/how-do-you-appeal-your-plab-2-result How do you appeal your PLAB 2 result? Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 2 exam? - How will you be tested? - When and where can you take PLAB 2? - Information on booking a PLAB 2 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 2? - A sample OSCE station - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - How do you get your PLAB 2 results? - Understanding your results - What do you do after you get your results - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 2 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 2 result? - Misconduct procedure - Case study of candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 2 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 2 attempt? Next Misconduct procedure 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. Related content PLAB 2 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 2 test. PLAB 2 overview videoWatch our video which shows what you can expect when you take PLAB 2. PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 2. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. ===== misconduct-procedures ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-2-guide/misconduct-procedures 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 ===== case-study ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-2-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-2-guide/anti-bribery-policy Anti-bribery policy Show all chapters in this guidance - Summary - What is the PLAB 2 exam? - How will you be tested? - When and where can you take PLAB 2? - Information on booking a PLAB 2 place - Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other disruptions - What resources should you use to prepare for PLAB 2? - A sample OSCE station - Do you have a health need that may require adjustments or support on your exam day? - What can you expect on the day? - How do you get your PLAB 2 results? - Understanding your results - What do you do after you get your results - Are you eligible for an additional PLAB 2 attempt? - How do you appeal your PLAB 2 result? - Misconduct procedure - Case study of candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam - Anti-bribery policy - PLAB 2 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements The Bribery Act 2010 provides the four main offences:  - giving or offering a bribe - receiving or requesting a bribe - bribing a foreign public official (also known as facilitation payments) - negligently failing to prevent a bribe (corporate offence).  Under the Bribery Act, an offence has been committed even if no money or goods have been exchanged and a bribe has no minimum value.  Examples of bribery may include, but not limited to: - offering a financial incentive to anyone involved in the running of PLAB to provide you with exam material before an exam - offering a financial incentive to anyone involved in the running of PLAB to gain a pass in the exam. Individuals who commit bribery against the GMC may face criminal prosecution, civil action, disciplinary action and/or striking off (if the individual is a member). If found guilty of bribery, the individual may receive a ten-year custodial sentence and unlimited fines. Previous Case study of candidate misconduct at the PLAB exam Next PLAB 2 and the Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) requirements Related content PLAB 2 preparation resourcesFind resources that you can use to prepare for your PLAB 2 test. PLAB 2 overview videoWatch our video which shows what you can expect when you take PLAB 2. PLAB pass ratesSee recent pass rates for PLAB 2. PLAB reportsSee published reports about the PLAB test. ===== mla-requirements ===== SOURCE: https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-our-registers/plab/plab-2-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