Everything you need to pass PLAB and register with the GMC — the format, a realistic study plan, question-bank strategy, and how to prepare for the PLAB 2 OSCE.
Know the PLAB pathway
PLAB has two parts. PLAB 1 is a written single-best-answer exam of 180 questions mapped to the GMC content blueprint. PLAB 2 is an OSCE of 16 stations simulating real clinical scenarios you would meet as a first-year doctor in the NHS. Both feed into GMC registration.
A realistic PLAB 1 study plan
Most international medical graduates prepare for 2 to 4 months. Anchor your revision to the GMC blueprint, use a UK-guideline-aligned question bank daily, and build up to timed mock papers in the final weeks.
- Weeks 1–6: blueprint-based reading plus daily questions
- Weeks 6–8: target weak areas, especially ethics and prescribing
- Final 2 weeks: timed full-length mocks under exam conditions
- Throughout: review every wrong answer and the reasoning behind it
Master UK guidelines and ethics
PLAB rewards safe, UK-context decision making. Familiarise yourself with NICE guidance, the GMC’s Good Medical Practice and common prescribing safety principles. Ethics, safeguarding and communication are heavily tested and frequently under-prepared.
Preparing for the PLAB 2 OSCE
PLAB 2 assesses how you actually behave with patients. Practise the 16-station format with structured frameworks for history, examination, counselling and acute scenarios. Communication, empathy and patient safety score heavily.
- Rehearse stations aloud with a study partner
- Use clear frameworks for history and counselling
- Prioritise patient safety and clear communication
- Practise to time so you complete each station
Stay well while you prepare
Relocating, working and revising at once is demanding. Protect your sleep and wellbeing, and pace your revision so you arrive at the exam rested and confident.
Get exam-ready with Essential PLAB
Practise with a PLAB 1 question bank aligned to UK guidelines, with detailed explanations and realistic mock exams.
Start preparing for PLAB →Frequently asked questions
How do I pass PLAB 1 first time?
Prepare for 2 to 4 months, anchor revision to the GMC blueprint, use a UK-guideline-aligned question bank daily, cover ethics and prescribing thoroughly, review every wrong answer, and sit timed mock papers before the exam.
How long does PLAB preparation take?
PLAB 1 typically takes 2 to 4 months of focused study, followed by dedicated OSCE practice for PLAB 2.
Is PLAB 1 or PLAB 2 harder?
It varies by candidate. PLAB 1 tests breadth of applied knowledge under time pressure, while PLAB 2 tests real clinical and communication skills in an OSCE. Both require targeted, structured practice.
What resources do I need to pass PLAB?
A UK-guideline-aligned question bank, the GMC blueprint and Good Medical Practice, and structured OSCE practice for PLAB 2 are the core resources most successful candidates use.