Source Link The Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) exam is used by the General Medical Council (GMC) to assess the proficiency of international medical graduates who wish to practice medicine in the UK. Here are the key requirements and components for the PLAB exam: 1. Eligibility: ○ Medical Degree: You need to have a medical degree from a recognized institution. Your degree should be listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools. ○ English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers usually need to demonstrate their English proficiency. This can be done through English language tests like IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or OET (Occupational English Test). Specific scores required can vary, so it’s essential to check the latest GMC requirements. 2. PLAB 1: ○ Format: PLAB 1 is a multiple-choice question (MCQ) exam. It tests your understanding of clinical principles and your ability to apply medical knowledge to clinical scenarios. ○ Content: Questions cover a range of clinical topics including medicine, surgery, and other areas relevant to the day-to-day practice of medicine in the UK. 3. PLAB 2: ○ Format: PLAB 2 is an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). It involves practical stations where you interact with actors (simulated patients) and perform various clinical tasks. ○ Content: It assesses your clinical skills, communication, and decision-making abilities. 4. Application Process: ○ Registration: You need to register with the GMC and apply for the PLAB exam. This involves submitting necessary documents, such as your medical degree and proof of English proficiency. ○ Examination Fee: There are fees for taking both PLAB 1 and PLAB 2, which you need to pay as part of the registration process. 5. Additional Requirements: ○ Medical Registration: Before you can practice medicine in the UK, you’ll need to apply for GMC registration and, if applicable, a visa to work in the UK. ○ Clinical Experience: While not a formal requirement for the exam, having clinical experience can help you prepare and perform better in the PLAB tests. Always refer to the latest guidelines from the GMC and the official PLAB exam website to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.