PLAB Exam 2024: What is PLAB?

Are you a medical student seeking opportunities to practice in the UK? The Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) exam is the ticket to fulfilling your dream. The  (PLAB) full-form, Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board exam is conducted by International Medical Graduates (IMGs) to assess whether one has the required skills and knowledge to practice medicine in the UK. 

Know More About : PLAB Exam Dates | PLAB Exam Fees | PLAB Exam Syllabus | 

PLAB exam consists of a two-part assessment: Part 1 is a written exam, and Part 2 is a practical assessment. However, preparation can be daunting with many candidates taking this exam each year. That's why we've put together an ultimate guide that covers everything you need to know to ace the PLAB exam. From exam format and eligibility to registration dates and fees- read on to discover how to boost your chances of success!

PLAB Exam Pattern

The PLAB test is organized by the General Medical Council (UK) and is administered by the British Council, where candidates who are not from the European Economic Area or Switzerland need to pass the PLAB exam. The test is designed to assess your ability to apply your knowledge and skills in a clinical setting. It consists of two parts:

PLAB Part 1: A written multiple choice exam, with 180 Multiple Choice Questions.

PLAB Part 2: A practical exam, which includes an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE).

You will need to pass both parts of the exam to be eligible for registration with the General Medical Council (GMC). 

The PLAB Exam syllabus has changed over the period, so it is important to ensure you are familiar with the most up-to-date version. Here is an overview of the current format: 

PLAB Part 1 Syllabus

The Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) section of the exam consists of 180 questions, split into three sections of 60 questions each. You will have three hours to complete this section of the exam. 

Section 1: Foundation sciences 

This section covers basic scientific principles that are relevant to medicine. The questions will test your knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, microbiology, and pathology. 

Section 2: Clinical sciences 

This section covers topics such as medical ethics, communication skills, and law. The questions test your ability to apply your knowledge to real-life clinical scenarios. 

Section 3: Applied clinical sciences 

This section covers topics such as emergency medicine, child health, psychiatry, and general practice. The questions will assess your ability to diagnose, manage and treat patients in various clinical settings. 

PLAB Part 2 Syllabus:

 Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) 

The OSCE is a practical exam assessing your ability to perform medical procedures safely and accurately. You will be tested in various clinical scenarios and will be expected to demonstrate your ability to diagnose, manage and treat patients effectively. The OSCE consists of 16 stations, each lasting 8 minutes, for which you will be having 2 hours to complete the entire exam.

PLAB Registration Process to Follow

It is now possible to register for the Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board (PLAB) test online through the GMC website. 

PLAB Registration Fees

Upcoming Important Dates for PLAB Exam 2024

Required Criteria for Indian Students:

The primary medical qualification should be provided by an institution listed on the World Directory of Medical Schools, which is acceptable to the GMC.

The qualification must have been provided after completion of a program consisting of at least 5,500 hours over a period of 3 years.

One must have taken clinical rotations or training periods as a part of a primary medical qualification or while pursuing a pre-graduate internship with applicable clinical experience.

Qualification of an individual cannot be undertaken entirely virtually.

Required PLAB Score to Pass the Exam:

About the PLAB 1 exam, the passing scores required are generally between  115-120. These passing marks of the PLAB 1 exam are evaluated based on the method named Angoff Method where evaluation is based on a discussion of the complexities involved in approving judgment about the exam.