PLAB 2: booking and prep
PLAB 2 is the GMC’s clinical and professional skills assessment (OSCE-style), made up of 16 eight-minute scenarios, for international medical graduates seeking UK registration.
You need an acceptable overseas primary medical qualification and a valid PLAB 1 pass, and you must pass PLAB 2 within two years of passing PLAB 1.
Every sitting
Dates all year; book once you pass PLAB 1. Book in GMC Online →
Before you book
How do I get a place on PLAB 2?
You book PLAB 2 only through the PLAB booking service in your GMC Online account; no third party can book for you.
What is the format?
The exam has 16 scenarios of eight minutes each, with at least two rest stations, and takes around three hours.
How is it marked?
Examiners mark each station on data gathering, clinical management and interpersonal skills. To pass you must meet or exceed the overall pass mark (the sum of station cut scores plus one standard error of measurement) and pass a minimum number of stations, which you are not told.
How many attempts do I get?
Four attempts. After a fourth fail you can apply for a fifth and final one, with evidence of at least 12 months of clinical practice or a relevant postgraduate qualification since.
Where is it sat?
PLAB 2 is sat in person at the GMC Clinical Assessment Centre sites on Hardman Square and Hardman Street in Manchester; your booking confirmation says which one.
When are results?
Results are published within a month of your exam date and you are emailed to view them under My Tests in GMC Online.
What comes after PLAB 2?
Apply for GMC registration with a licence to practise, and have it approved within two years of the day you passed PLAB 2; after that you must send more evidence of your knowledge and skills.
