Understanding PLAB 1

PLAB 1 is a medical examination for international doctors aiming to practice in the UK. It assesses the ability to work safely in a UK hospital as a junior doctor.

PLAB 1 is a written exam consisting of 180 single-best-answer questions. Candidates have three hours to complete it, with questions based on common clinical scenarios.

Introduced by the General Medical Council (GMC) of the UK, the Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) test has evolved since 1975 to ensure patient safety.

Preparation involves studying UK clinical guidelines, particularly NICE guidelines, as PLAB focuses on UK best practice and patient management. Online question banks are popular study tools.

Eligibility for PLAB 1 requires a medical degree from a recognized institution and proof of English proficiency, typically through the IELTS or OET exam.

Clearing PLAB 1 allows candidates to take PLAB 2, a practical objective structured clinical exam (OSCE). Success in both exams is mandatory to practice medicine in the UK.

The GMC regularly updates PLAB to reflect modern practice and patient expectations. This ensures that overseas qualified doctors remain competent and up-to-date with UK medical standards.