WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
PLAB 1 assesses applied knowledge through written questions; PLAB 2 assesses clinical and professional skills through scenarios. They serve different parts of the GMC assessment process and need different practice methods.
Compare the assessments
PLAB 1 has 180 multiple-choice questions in three hours. PLAB 2 has 16 assessed scenarios, each lasting eight minutes, with rest stations in addition. Both assess application of knowledge; PLAB 1 is not merely a memory test.
| Assessment | Useful preparation focus |
|---|---|
| PLAB 1 | Reasoning through written scenarios and reviewing answer explanations. |
| PLAB 2 | Observed simulated consultations, practical skills and communication. |
Understand the MLA relationship
PLAB meets the Medical Licensing Assessment requirements and uses the MLA content map. Do not assume that international candidates must book a separate additional examination simply because they see the term MLA. Check the current GMC route that applies to your qualifications.
PLAB is one route to registration. Other routes exist, including eligible postgraduate qualifications and approved sponsorship; nationality alone does not decide the route.
Plan eligibility and dates before spending
Use GMC Online and the current guidance to check qualification acceptance, English evidence, attempts, booking availability and result deadlines. The timing between examinations and the registration deadline need separate checks. Do not build a budget from old fees or a historic test-centre list.
Example planning sheet: eligibility confirmed; Part 1 appointment; preparation time; Part 2 travel; registration documents. Put a deadline and evidence source beside each item rather than assuming they all expire together.
Keep the outcome in perspective
An examination pass does not issue a medical licence, employment contract or visa. After the assessments, complete the applicable GMC registration process and separately meet employment and immigration requirements.
Your next step is to confirm your registration route and select current official preparation materials for the assessment you are actually taking.
Sources and further reading
Sources checked 2026-10-13. Examples and planning suggestions are Effikos editorial guidance.
Something needs a closer look? Send us a correction.
