PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board) conducts exam for those willing to work as medical professionals in the UK. PLAB exam is held in two phases – I & II. PLAB-1 is held worldwide at multiple locations whereas PLAB-2 is held only in the UK. While PLAB-1 offers flexibility in locations worldwide, it can only be taken four times in a year – February, May, August and November. PLAB-2 on the other hand, is held throughout the year in Manchester, UK.
The flexible scheduling of PLAB dates has contributed to the popularity of the PLAB exam. According to GMC reports, the share of IMGs entering the UK register via PLAB has risen from 10% to over 25% in recent years. Additionally, over 4,000 candidates take PLAB 1 annually, highlighting its importance for the UKMLA Exam.
The guide covers every significant date related to PLAB exam along with steps to register, test center locations, exam fees and how to choose all of them wisely. Tune in as we now advance in the next sections, touching all important details.
What are the Upcoming PLAB Exam Dates and Schedule?
PLAB exam is conducted by the General Medical Council (GMC) of the UK to assess whether international medical graduates are ready to practice medicine in the country. Since it is of such an importance for medical professionals seeking to practice their career in the UK, knowing PLAB dates and schedules are most important. GMC conducts the exam in two phases: PLAB-1 which is theoretical exam and PLAB-2(a clinical OSCE), which follows a specific schedule:
Let’s look at the updated schedule for 2025, including how exam registration windows open and close for both UK and overseas centres.
What are the PLAB-1 Dates?
PLAB 1 is a written, multiple-choice exam held four times a year. It is conducted both in the UK and several overseas locations, including major Indian cities. The exam is usually held in February, May, August and November every year.
For 2025, the GMC has already published tentative schedules:
February 2025 – Held on 20th February 2025 it is first PLAB 1 sitting of the year. The Results are expected to come on 3rd April 2025 by 4 PM.
May 2025 – Conducted on 22nd May 2025, it is mid-year sitting, popular among recent graduates. The Results are expected to come on 3rd July 2025 by 4 PM.
September 2025 – Held on 7th August 2025, it is autumn sitting, helpful for those aligning with postgraduate timelines. The Results are expected to come on 18th September 2025 by 4 PM.
November 2025 – It is the last sitting of the year conducted on 6th November 2025, with results rolling into 2026 intake opportunities. Examinees can expect results on 18th December 2025 by 4 PM.
Note: Candidates are advised to book early, as overseas centres (like India, Pakistan, or Nigeria) tend to get filled up quickly, sometimes within days of registration opening.
What are PLAB-2 Dates and How is it Scheduled?
PLAB 2 is an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) conducted only in the UK at the GMC assessment center in Manchester. PLAB-2 exam is conducted throughout the year, unlike PLAB-1 which is only conducted 4 times in a year
Exam slots are available on an ongoing basis, but demand is high, so candidates must plan at least 3–6 months ahead to secure a preferred date.
The availability of PLAB 2 slots depends on how early you book after receiving your PLAB 1 results.
Some candidates wait longer due to visa processing, so strategic planning is crucial.
This flexible scheduling allows international doctors to choose dates that align with their travel, visa approval, and preparation timelines.
What is exam registration opening and closing dates for UK and overseas centers?
For both PLAB-1 and PLAB-2, registrations is done through GMC online account. The pattern for exam right from registering to exam date is as follows.
For PLAB-1, registration opens about 2-3 months before exam date and closes 6 months before exam date for overseas candidates and prior two weeks for UK candidates.
Seats are limited for overseas centres since they fill up very quickly. Indian candidates should log in immediately when booking opens to avoid missing out.
For PLAB-2 exam, booking opens once you pass PLAB-1. As it is conducted year-round, you can view and book an available slot through their GMC account.
What is Exam Structure and Fee Details?
Understanding the structure and fees of the PLAB exam is just as important as knowing the dates. Since this exam is divided into two stages - PLAB 1 and PLAB 2, candidates must prepare for very different testing formats. Additionally, the cost of the exam, including retakes or cancellations, can significantly affect financial planning for international students.
What is the format and duration of PLAB 1 and 2?
The given table displays exam setting, format, duration and focused topics which are most likely to come in the exams respectively.
Exam Parameter
PLAB-1
PLAB-2
Setting
Written and Computer Based
Practical
Format
180 Multiple Choice Questions, each with 5 options; 1 correct answer only
Approx. 18 clinical stations, each lasting 8 minutes with 2 minutes to read instructions
Duration
3 Hours
Approx. 3 Hours
Assessment Focus
Areas of clinical practice & professional Knowledge in UK.
Communication, clinical examination and decision-making skills with actors and simulated patients
Together, the two stages assess both theoretical and practical readiness for practicing as a doctor in the UK.
What is PLAB Exam Fees in 2025?
The GMC charges separate fees for each stage of the PLAB exam. As of 2025, the costs are:
PLAB 1: £273 (INR 32.3K)
PLAB 2: £998 (INR 1.18L)
Additional points to note:
Rescheduling Fees: If you reschedule your exam after booking, there may be charges depending on how close it is to the exam date.
Refunds: Full or partial refunds are available if you cancel within the specified GMC deadline.
Other Costs: Candidates also need to budget for visa, travel, and accommodation, particularly for PLAB 2 in the UK.
Since fees may be updated by the GMC annually, candidates should always double-check on the official GMC website before making payments.
What are the PLAB exam centeres in India and Abroad?
The PLAB exam is conducted in two parts – PLAB 1, which is available at multiple test centers worldwide, and PLAB 2, which is only held in the UK. Since PLAB 1 is the first stage, GMC partners with several international centers to make it more accessible to overseas doctors, including those in India.
Discover: What are the nearest PLAB test centres from your location?
Which are the Indian Cities with PLAB Exam Centers?
Currently, PLAB 1 is conducted in selected Indian cities through approved test venues. Availability may vary depending on demand and exam scheduling.
Test venues are New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore and Hyderabad.
Which Countries and Regions Offer PLAB Exam Centers Globally?
Apart from India, PLAB 1 is held in several countries across Asia, Middle East, Africa, Europe, and North America. This makes it easier for candidates to attempt the exam without necessarily travelling to the UK.
Region
Countries
Asia
India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka
Middle East
UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt
Africa
Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa
Europe
Ireland, Spain, Türkiye
North America
Canada
Australia
Australia
PLAB 2, however, is only conducted in Manchester, UK, at the GMC Clinical Assessment Centre. All candidates must travel to the UK for this stage.
Sometimes, candidates may need to cancel or reschedule their PLAB exam due to unforeseen circumstances such as visa delays, health issues, or personal commitments. The General Medical Council (GMC) allows flexibility in such cases, provided candidates follow the correct procedure through the GMC online portal (GMC Online account).
How to Cancel or Reschedule via GMC Portal?
To cancel or reschedule your PLAB appointment, you must go to your GMC online account and follow the steps:
Candidates must log in to their GMC Online account and go to the "My Tests" section.
Here, they can view their upcoming PLAB exam booking and choose either reschedule (to another available date) or cancel the test.
Rescheduling is only possible if seats are available for the chosen date. Otherwise, candidates may need to cancel and rebook.
Refunds depend on how early the cancellation is made. Below give table shows the refund amount when you applied for cancelling request.
Cancellation Requirement
Refund Amount
PLAB-1 – cancellations over 42 days before exam date
£245.7 (10% fee deduction)
PLAB-1 – cancellations 42 or less days before exam date
£0 (100% fee deduction)
PLAB-2 - cancellations over 42 days before exam date
£898.2 (10% fee deduction)
PLAB-2 - cancellations between 42 - 29 days before exam date
£499 (50% fee deduction)
PLAB-2 - cancellations 29 days or less before exam date
£0 (100% fee deduction)
So, you must cancel 42 days prior from exam date for PLAB 1 to get a refund. For PLAB –2, same conditions but somewhat relaxed. You can get 50% between 29-42 days before the exam date.
How many Attempts are allowed and What validity Rules apply?
A candidate can take PLAB 1 up to 4 times. If unsuccessful after 4 attempts, they must pursue additional clinical experience before reapplying.
For PLAB 2, candidates must pass within two years of passing PLAB 1. Otherwise, they will need to re-sit PLAB 1.
Once PLAB 2 is cleared, the results remain valid for GMC registration provided the candidate applies within two years.
How to Choose Ideal PLAB Exam Date in 2025?
Choosing the right PLAB exam date is vital, as over 80% of candidates who plan their schedules based on preparation and personal timelines report higher success rates. GMC data shows that adequate 3 to 6 months preparation time significantly improves pass rates.
Selecting the ideal PLAB exam date is crucial for success and smooth progression in your medical career. Consider these critical factors:
University Admission and Visa Timelines: Align your PLAB exam date with your medical school graduation and visa application deadlines to avoid last-minute rushes or overlaps. Planning ensures you meet GMC registration requirements without delays.
Preparation Status: Choose a date that gives you enough time to thoroughly prepare, including revision, mock tests, and addressing weak areas. According to GMC guidance, most candidates spend 3 to 6 months preparing for PLAB 1.
Test center Availability: Book your slot early since popular test centers, especially in India, fill up quickly due to high demand. Check the GMC’s official test center listings for available dates.
Personal Commitments: Consider your work, family, and other commitments to select a date when you can focus entirely on exam preparation and performance.
Exam Sequence: Remember that PLAB 2 can only be taken after passing PLAB 1, so factor in result release times (usually 6 weeks) when scheduling your next attempt.
Conclusion
The PLAB exam is a crucial step for international medical graduates aspiring to practice in the UK, and being aware of the latest exam dates, eligibility requirements, and registration timelines is essential for success. With two stages: PLAB 1 testing theoretical knowledge and PLAB 2 assessing practical clinical skills, early planning ensures a smoother journey. Candidates must carefully choose their exam centers, manage deadlines, and prepare with the right resources. By staying updated with official GMC announcements and using reliable preparation support, medical graduates can confidently work toward achieving their career goals in the UK healthcare system.
How many candidates typically take the PLAB exams annually?
Every year, thousands of international medical graduates attempt the PLAB exams. According to GMC data, over 15,000 candidates appear annually, with PLAB 1 being more frequent and PLAB 2 conducted at GMC’s Manchester test center.
What is the pass rate and how often is PLAB 1 held in India?
The PLAB 1 pass rate usually ranges between 60–70%. It is held four times a year in multiple international centers, including India, offering overseas graduates several opportunities to attempt the exam each year.
How long until I receive my results?
PLAB 1 results are typically released within 6 weeks after the test date, while PLAB 2 results are shared within 8 weeks. Candidates can access their results through the GMC Online portal.
Can I reschedule my PLAB date, and what are the limitations?
Yes, you can reschedule through the GMC Online portal, but only before the booking deadline. Availability is subject to slots, and once the deadline passes, changes are not allowed unless under exceptional circumstances.
What are the ways to cancel PLAB exam?
Cancellations must be made via the GMC Online portal before the booking deadline. Candidates may be eligible for partial or full refunds depending on when they cancel, as per GMC’s cancellation policy.
Can I give PLAB exam from home?
No, PLAB exams cannot be taken from home. PLAB 1 must be attempted at authorized test centers worldwide, while PLAB 2 is held exclusively at the GMC’s Clinical Assessment Centre in Manchester, UK.
What are the fee refund policies in case of exam cancellation?
Refunds depend on cancellation timing. Candidates usually receive a full refund if they cancel before the booking deadline, but after this, only partial or no refund is issued based on GMC’s refund rules.
Where can I take PLAB 1 in India?
In India, PLAB 1 is conducted in major cities such as Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, and New Delhi. Availability may vary, so early registration helps secure the preferred test center.
How far in advance do test centers fill up, and how can I secure a slot?
PLAB test centers fill quickly, often within hours of registration opening. To secure a slot, candidates must regularly check GMC announcements and book immediately once the registration window opens.
Is house-job or foundation year equivalent to an internship for PLAB eligibility?
Yes, a house-job or foundation year is usually accepted as an internship, provided it includes hands-on training and covers at least 12 months with clinical rotations in both medicine and surgery.
What happens if my internship doesn’t include surgery or medicine rotations?
If your internship lacks either medicine or surgery rotations, you may be considered ineligible for PLAB. GMC requires evidence of both, so additional supervised training may be necessary to meet eligibility criteria.
How many attempts are allowed for each PLAB test?
You are allowed a maximum of four attempts for PLAB 1 and four attempts for PLAB 2. After reaching this limit, candidates cannot reapply unless they undertake further medical education approved by GMC.
Pragya Sharma is a content developer and marketer with 6.5+ years of experience in the education industry. She started her career as a social media copywriter for NIELIT, Ministry of Electronics & IT,...
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