For 2026, the PLAB exam fees have been revised by GMC UK, with the updated fee structure coming into effect from 1 April 2026. As per the latest announcement, candidates will need to pay ₹34,428 (£283) for PLAB 1 and ₹125,973 (£1,036) for PLAB 2. Since these changes directly impact the PLAB exam fees in the UK, staying updated with the official GMC notification and planning your finances early is essential before booking the exam.
On this page, we’ll also look at the additional costs beyond the PLAB fees, payment methods, refund and cancellation rules, possible financial support options, and practical ways to keep the overall cost of the PLAB exam under control.
PLAB Exam Fees for 2026 (Official GMC Update):
Exam Component
Fee (INR)
Fee (GBP)
PLAB Part 1
₹34,428
£283
PLAB Part 2
₹125,973
£1,036
PLAB Exam Refund and Cancellation Policy
When planning for the PLAB exams, it’s important to understand the GMC’s cancellation and refund rules. If you cancel your test, a cancellation fee will be charged before any remaining amount is refunded. The fee depends on how far in advance you cancel. In exceptional circumstances (such as medical emergencies), the GMC may consider refunding part or all of the cancellation fee if you provide supporting documentation.
Can I Cancel or Reschedule My PLAB Exam?
You can cancel or reschedule your PLAB exam through your GMC online account.
To receive a refund, you must cancel at least 42 calendar days before your exam date.
Rescheduling is possible if alternative dates or centres are available.
Cancelling within 42 days or less usually means you will lose your full fee, unless exceptional circumstances apply.
PLAB Exam Cancellation Fees (Effective April 2026)
Exam Component
Cancellation Window
Fee Charged (INR & GBP)
PLAB 1
More than 42 days before exam
₹3,445 (≈ £28.30)
PLAB 1
42 days or less before exam
₹34,428 (≈ £283.00)
PLAB 2
More than 42 days before exam
₹12,590 (≈ £103.60)
PLAB 2
Between 42 and 29 days before exam
₹62,940 (≈ £518.00)
PLAB 2
28 days or less before exam
₹125,973 (≈ £1,036.00)
Refund Eligibility
42+ days before exam: Eligible for refund (minus 10% cancellation fee).
Less than 42 days before exam: No refund (unless exceptional circumstances apply).
No-show or missed exam: No refund.
Medical/personal emergencies: May be eligible for refund with documentation.
Additional Costs Apart from PLAB Exam Fees
When planning for the PLAB exam fees, it’s important to remember that the exam cost is only one part of the total expense. Many candidates underestimate the overall financial commitment, especially for PLAB 2, which requires travelling to the UK and appearing in person at the GMC clinical assessment centre in Manchester. Along with the PLAB exam fees in the UK, you should be prepared for several other related costs.
To get a clearer picture, these additional expenses usually fall into four broad categories: exam preparation, travel, accommodation, and day-to-day living costs.
How much does PLAB preparation cost?
If you’re serious about clearing the exam, budgeting for preparation is essential. Beyond the PLAB part 1 exam fees, most candidates invest in coaching, reference books, question banks, and mock tests to improve their chances of success.
Below is the outline of popular prep costs:
Estimated PLAB Preparation Costs (2026):
Expense Type
Cost (Approx.)
Online Coaching
INR 18,000 – INR 35,000
Offline Coaching (Delhi, Hyderabad, etc.)
INR 40,000 – INR 65,000
Books & Study Materials
INR 2,500 – INR 6,000
Online Question Banks
INR 2,700 – INR 5,500
Mock Tests
INR 1,500 – INR 6,000 per test
OSCE Simulations (PLAB 2 Prep)
INR 22,000 – INR 45,000
What are the travel and accommodation costs for PLAB 2?
The PLAB 2 is administered only in Manchester, UK, making it take an essential travel and stay cost. Here is all the breakdown of visas and health insurance:
Estimated Travel & Living Costs for PLAB 2 (2026):
Paying for the PLAB exam is a simple process, but many candidates still have doubts about the steps, methods, and what to do if something goes wrong. Here’s a clear explanation to help you navigate it confidently.
Can I pay the PLAB fees from India or my home country?
Yes, you can pay the PLAB exam fees from India or your home country. You don’t need to be present in the UK to make the payment. Once you’ve registered an account on the GMC website, you can:
Book and pay your booking fees, and pay your PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 in your GMC account
Your reservations, receipts, and confirmations should be tracked
This makes it convenient for candidates to manage the PLAB exam fees in India or in Indian rupees, without worrying about being in the UK at the time of payment.
What payment methods are accepted by GMC?
Although payments made through the GMC’s secure online portal can be made by the following payment methods:
Accepted Method
Notes
Debit Cards
International cards allowed
Credit Cards
Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted
Online Bank Transfers
May be supported via your card's payment gateway
Currencies Accepted
Payments are taken in GBP (£) only
What if the payment fails or is delayed?
Possible payment problems, but particularly with international cards. What to do in case your transaction is not done:
Repeat the payment: Wait a couple of minutes and then do it again with any card or with another one.
Try another browser/device: The technical problems are sometimes browser-related.
Check card settings: make sure we have international payments turned on.
Call your bank: Your bank may put any high-value, or foreign to the bank transactions, transactions on hold until pre-authorized.
In case the problem remains:
Get in touch with GMC Support through email or phone on your GMC account.
Failed payments and refunds characteristically bounce back within 510 business days, depending on your bank.
The actual cost and expenses of the entire PLAB may be too high to take down the impact on the candidates who make applications in low-income and middle-income nations. Although as of today, there is no official GMC fee waiver, there are some things that can still be said.
Does GMC offer financial help to candidates?
To date, GMC does not provide fee exemptions or financial support to take PLAB 1 or PLAB 2 directly.
The complete examination fees need to be personally financed through your account on the GMC site.
No concession rates or slots on discount that are listed on the GMC website.
Previously, GMC has run some limited assistance schemes supporting doctors in conflict zones or with refugee status; however, such schemes are unusual and not regular PLAB provisions.
Can I get a scholarship or reimbursement for PLAB?
Although GMC does not offer any financial assistance, these are some of the options other international candidates have used to their advantage:
Scholarships via local government or non-governmental organisation: In some countries, such as India, Nigeria, and Pakistan, some health-related non-governmental organizations, some state medical boards, or some state-owned enterprises, sometimes provide a scholarship or interest-free loan scheme to cover study abroad qualifications like PLAB.
Prospective employers in the UK: A few NHS Trusts or recruitment agencies recoup your money on fees to take the PLAB 2 once you join them as a junior doctor. This is commonly in relocation assistance, or it depends on your employment agreement.
For Example, some IMG physicians recruited with the help of the international recruitment program have shared their experiences in which they were partially refunded the pass fee of the PLAB 2 exam or IELTS/OET test, or visa payment upon joining the Trust.
Tips to Minimise the Overall Cost of the PLAB Exam
When planning for PLAB exam fees, it’s important to know that you can significantly reduce your overall expenses without compromising your preparation. The key lies in smart budgeting, using the right prep resources, and avoiding unnecessary spending. By managing your PLAB 1 exam fees and other related costs strategically, you can make the journey to passing the PLAB more affordable and stress-free.
Can I save money by planning PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 efficiently?
Yes, you can either save money with the timing of your bookings, or a hole in your wallet.
Book the PLAB 2 test as soon as one has passed the PLAB 1. Delays are expensive:
Trips to the UK increase their price as they go on.
Last-minute stays in Manchester could be more difficult (and more expensive).
Avoid flights and Hotel booking at peak season. Depart during the lower traveling period when the airfare and accommodation are low.
Look out for the release dates of the slots on the GMC site in case you can grab an early slot and make a corresponding plan.
Are there low-cost options for PLAB preparation?
Absolutely. It will not take you tens of thousands of dollars in coaching to pass PLAB.
These are the inexpensive/free PLAB preparation resources that many who passed the practice:
GMC sample questions and blueprint of the PLAB 1 and PLAB 2: PLAB 1 Blueprint & Sample Questions and Overview of PLAB 2
YouTube: There are dozens of tutorials posted by tutors on how to do PLAB free, most often on common situations in the PLAB 2.
Cheaper Qbanks (which are usually free or have a £20 (INR 2200) per month subscription price), such as PLABable, may exist.
Conclusion
The PLAB exam is a crucial step toward practicing medicine in the UK, but candidates should be prepared for financial commitments that go beyond the PLAB exam fees. The total cost can range from INR 1.5 to 3.5 lakhs or more, depending on factors such as application fees, coaching, travel, and accommodation.
The good news is that you don’t need to overspend. With careful planning, the right prep resources, and smart decisions early on, you can manage your expenses effectively. Here are some tips:
Book your exams early to reduce travel and visa costs.
Use free preparation resources before enrolling in paid coaching.
Explore employer or local grant reimbursements where available.
Stay updated with the official GMC website for the latest changes in PLAB exam fees in the UK.
If you are still unsure, you can book a free counseling session with upGrad and seek professional guidance! We’d be happy to help you figure this out.
FAQs
Is PLAB easier than the USMLE or AMC exams?
PLAB is usually looked upon as easier than USMLE or AMC, particularly for doctors having been trained in India or other Commonwealth countries. It is not focused on profound theoretical knowledge but on clinical knowledge. With that said, easier is relative- still requires serious prep. Before making a decision, you must know the type of exam.
Do I need an OET or IELTS score for PLAB?
Yes. Even to book PLAB 1, you will have to demonstrate your mastery of English. GMC considers IELTS (7.5 all round) or OET (B in all modules). With this, you will not be able to initiate the PLAB process. Therefore, approach your English test in an earnest manner-don't take it as a formality.
How long is the entire PLAB process from start to finish?
IELTS/OET to PLAB 1- PLAB 2- registration with GMC- normally 1-1.5 years, assuming you organize things well. Such delay most often occurs between PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 due to availability. Good planning enables fast-trackers to achieve it within less than a year.
Can I practice in the UK right after clearing PLAB?
Not immediately, but you are required to apply to the GMC to be registered with a license to practice, after passing the PLAB 2; this process takes documentation, background checks, and a potential clinical attachment. It is only then that you can go ahead and apply for NHS jobs.
How many times can I attempt PLAB?
There are four attempts at PLAB 1. Otherwise, you will have to demonstrate some additional clinical experience or additional studying, in case you do not pass after four attempts. In the second part, PLAB 2, you have four opportunities in two years after passing the first part, PLAB
Can I take PLAB 1 in India?
Yes, that is good news. The PLAB 1 is based in the large cities of India in Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai. Places go quickly, though, and therefore you must book in advance using your GMC account. PLAB 2 is, however, any test that only takes place in Manchester, in the UK.
Is there an age limit to appear for PLAB?
No, there is no age requirement to take PLAB. You will, however, need to have a primary medical qualification acceptable to the GMC. You should also be prepared to clarify any major gaps in practice and training in the process of registering.
Can I work part-time in the UK after PLAB?
Yes, as having GMC registration under your belt, you will be able to gain a part-time or full-time position. Non-training service jobs include experiences in the NHS of many IMGs (international medical graduates). Depending on the type of contract and visa, you will work accordingly.
What happens if I miss my PLAB exam date?
In case you miss your PLAB exam without formally giving it up or rescheduling on time, you will forfeit the full amount of the exam. Strict measures are taken with no-shows. It is important to review email and the GMC portal regularly to know what is new or has been changed last minute.
Is clinical experience mandatory before PLAB?
At GMC, there is no requirement for post-MBBS experience to make an appearance at PLAB. However, clinical exposure is very useful and useful in the case of PLAB 2. It would also make your GMC and job applications stronger. And yes, that is strongly suggested.
Can I bring dependents with me for PLAB 2?
Yes, but it is expensive. In case you are a visitor on a visitor visa strictly to take the exam, family in it means applying for several visas, longer stay accommodation, and additional travel. The majority come with no company, a strategy they apply to ensure that money is saved.
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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