General & Multidisciplinary

General Medical Council

PLAB 1: sittings, booking and prep

Next sitting to book 5 Nov 2026 · 2 sittings listed

About

The GMC’s written test for international medical graduates joining the UK register.

Next sitting to book5 Nov 2026 · Booking closes two to six weeks before, by centre

Every sitting

  • 5 Nov 2026 · Next sitting
    Booking closes two to six weeks before, by centre · results from 17 Dec
  • 11 Feb 2027
    Booking closes two to six weeks before, by centre · results from 25 Mar 2027

Before you book

  • How do I get a place on PLAB 1?

    Book a place in GMC Online. Booking closes two to six weeks before the test, depending on the location.

  • What is the format?

    180 single-best-answer questions in three hours.

  • How many attempts do I get?

    Four attempts, and a fifth on application with evidence of 12 months’ further learning.

Prepare for PLAB 1.

Reviewed byDr Robert BaxterDr Robert Baxter· Junior Clinical Fellow, Acute Medical Unit· Updated 16 Oct 2026

5 Nov 2026

Book in GMC Online

Booking closes two to six weeks before, by centre

Checked against GMC’s pages · updated 16 Oct 2026

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