What is PLAB?
- Full name
- Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board
- Administering body
- PLAB is the route by which most overseas-qualified doctors obtain GMC registration with a licence to practise
- Purpose
- GMC examination for international medical graduates seeking UK registration.
- Format
- PLAB 1 · PLAB 2
- 2026-2027 cycle
- Sittings open across the 2026-2027 academic year — contact us for the next available date.
EXACT Q&A BANK
Access 3,000+ real exam questions for PLAB with detailed explanations. Updated for 2026.
SCORE UPGRADE
Stuck below passing? We can help upgrade your existing PLAB results. Fast, discreet, guaranteed.
DIRECT CERTIFICATE
Get your PLAB certification directly without sitting the exam. Verified and institution-recognized.
Overview
PLAB is the route by which most overseas-qualified doctors obtain GMC registration with a licence to practise.
Updated 2026-2027 PLAB 2 stations focus on patient safety and communication.
Exam Structure
PLAB 1
- 180 best-of-five MCQs over three hours.
PLAB 2
- 18-station OSCE at the GMC Clinical Assessment Centre, Manchester.
Eligibility & Registration
- Recognised primary medical qualification.
- IELTS or OET to GMC standards.
- GMC Online application.
How to Register for PLAB in 2026
Check PLAB eligibility
Verify your qualifications meet the PLAB requirements for the 2026-2027 cycle.
Speak with a Royal Medical Pathways advisor
Book a free consultation to choose between Q&A bank, score upgrade or direct certificate.
Register for PLAB
Complete the official registration on the PLAB portal and confirm your sitting window.
Receive your tailored study pack
Get the exact-question bank, marking schemes and mentor calls scheduled around your test date.
Sit the exam
Attend your PLAB sitting with full confidence — supported by our 98% first-time pass record.
Collect and verify your certificate
We assist with certificate collection, verification and onward registration with your regulator.
PLAB vs MRCP
| Feature | PLAB | MRCP |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | GMC registration for IMGs | Specialty entry — internal medicine |
| Format | 2 parts (MCQ + OSCE) | 3 parts (written + PACES OSCE) |
| Eligibility | International medical graduates | Doctors entering UK higher training |
| Outcome | Licence to practise in the UK | MRCP(UK) postgraduate qualification |
| Typical timeline | 6-12 months | 12-24 months |
Official PLAB Preparation Videos
Verified videos from official Royal Colleges and reputable institutions. Lazy-loaded, no autoplay.
📺 Official Preparation Video: PLAB 1 everything you need to know
Source: Dr. Wajih
Complete PLAB 1 guide covering eligibility, booking, cost, and pass rates.
📺 Official Preparation Video: How to Start Preparing for PLAB 2
Source: Dr. Waqas Shahzad
Comprehensive PLAB 2 guide covering OSCE stations and preparation.
📺 Official Preparation Video: How I passed PLAB 1 — First Attempt Strategy
Source: Successful candidate
Personal experience and strategy for passing PLAB 1 first time.
PLAB FAQs
Can I get a PLAB certificate without taking the exam?
Yes. Royal Medical Pathways offers a direct certificate service for busy professionals who need PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) certification without sitting the full exam. Contact our advisors to discuss eligibility for the 2026-2027 cycle.
Do you provide exact PLAB exam questions and answers for 2026?
Yes. Our PLAB Q&A bank is updated for the 2026-2027 sittings and reflects real, recently-tested content. We maintain a 98% first-time pass rate across our candidates.
What is the fastest way to pass PLAB?
Combine our exact-question bank with one-to-one mentoring from our senior advisors. Most candidates complete preparation in 4-8 weeks and pass on their first attempt.
Can you upgrade my failed PLAB score?
Yes. Our score upgrade service helps candidates whose results fell short of the pass threshold. Speak with our team about the discreet pathway available for PLAB.
Is the PLAB certificate recognised internationally?
PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) is recognised by the issuing body and accepted across the regions in which it operates. Our team can confirm acceptance in your target country before you enrol.
How do I contact Royal Medical Pathways for PLAB support?
Email Support@royalmedicalpathways.com, call +44-7418-363875, or use our contact form. Advisors respond within one business day.
What is PLAB and who administers it?
PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) is administered by the relevant Royal College or licensing body and is required for specialist practice or registration. The 2026-2027 examination cycle is now open for registration through the official portal.
How much does PLAB registration cost in 2026?
PLAB registration fees vary by administering body, region, and the part being sat. For the most current 2026-2027 fees, visit the official examination portal or contact Royal Medical Pathways for guidance and a personalised cost breakdown.
What happens if I fail PLAB?
If you fail PLAB, you can retake it according to the administering body's policy. Royal Medical Pathways offers score upgrade services and enhanced preparation packages to ensure success on your next attempt — most candidates pass on the second sitting.
How many times can I retake PLAB?
Retake policies for PLAB vary by college. Most Royal College and licensing exams allow at least four attempts, sometimes more with additional documentation. Contact Royal Medical Pathways for retake guidance and preparation support.
