Earlier in our Postgraduate Qualifications blog series, we took a general look at PLAB examinations and all its various parts as a whole. Now we’ll take a closer look at the first stage of your PLAB journey – PLAB 1.
Here we consider everything that you need to know about the exam including syllabus, dates, fees and preparation by covering at the following topics:
PLAB 1 tests your ability to apply your knowledge for the care of patients at the house level, or Foundation year 2 in the UK (12 months of medical practice). Questions relate to current best practice in the UK, and equipment routinely used in UK hospitals. You’ll need to answer the questions in relation to published evidence and not according to your local arrangements. Remember, this is an exam for entry into the UK Healthcare system.
The exam covers the common, important and acute conditions (those common in emergency departments) seen by trainees entering the second year of the Foundation Programme (FY2), and the management of long-term conditions seen in primary care.
Still unsure on PLAB as a whole? Take a look at a more general overview of the PLAB examinations.
PLAB 1 is a written exam made up of 180 multiple choice questions, with the test lasting three hours in total. Each question starts with a short scenario followed by a question and five possible answers, from which you must choose the correct answer.
The GMC has created a helpful guide setting out what the PLAB test covers, which you can download here.
You can sit the exam in both the UK and several overseas locations. PLAB 1 is run four times a year in the UK and overseas venues hosted by the British Council.
Overseas venues are listed here with contact details.
At IMG Connect we advise that you check the closing date for applications for the closest venue. Also, be sure to submit your application in advance as applications submitted after the closing date will not be considered.
You can book your PLAB 1 examination using your GMC Online account where you can view available dates and book under the My Tests section.
Before you book a PLAB exam you must have:
Due to a backlog in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, it can be difficult to secure a place for the PLAB exams.
On Saturday 10 December 2022 at 10 am (GMT) the GMC will release PLAB 1 places for the following dates across all locations:
You’ll need to access GMC Online by 10 am (GMT) using this link (rather than the usual link on the GMC Online web page).
The PLAB 1 test costs £255.
We have discussed this question at length with IMGs and the GMC, and whilst there are many resources to choose from online, we recommend the following GMC guides to help you start your preparations.
The PLAB Blueprint:
This is a helpful guide to what will be included in the exam. Our IMGs advise this is the best place to start with your preparations. The Blueprint sets out clearly all the topics and skills needed to pass the exam.
Download the PLAB Blueprint here.
The Foundation Programme curriculum: The topics and skills covered in the PLAB Blueprint are identical to those undertaken by doctors starting their second year of Foundation Programme Training (FY2).
You can find the Foundation Programme curriculum here
Guidance and interactive tools:
The GMC ‘Good Medical Practice’ document explains the core advice to doctors on the standards expected of them. During PLAB 1 you will be expected to demonstrate the professional values and behaviours set out in ‘Good Medical Practice’ when you take the exam and when you practise as a doctor in the UK.
You can test your knowledge of Good Medical Practice using the following online tools:
Sample questions:
30 sample questions along with their answers can be found on the GMC website here.
Courses:
You do not need to attend a study or coaching course to pass, but many candidates choose to do so. PLAB 1 can be passed under your own preparation, however PLAB 2 usually requires further study and courses.
There are many courses and materials out there. If you are unsure of how to approach your study preparations, don’t hesitate to ask an IMG Consultant for some recommendations or guidance on which course or resource to use.
Remember, we speak to IMGs who've passed these exams on a daily basis and are more than happy to pass on their wisdom!
First of all, once booked, the GMC will advise you on what time to arrive. You will likely be there for approximately four hours in total.
You will need to bring Identification, your booking confirmation and stationery:
For identification, the venue will accept any one of the following:
If by accident you don't have one of the above you can take the exam but you'll need to provide your identification document later in the process.
Booking confirmation:
Stationery:
For PLAB 1, you can take the test 4 times. If you have not passed after 4 attempts, to be eligible to take the test again you must have completed a further 12 months experience of clinical practice or post graduate qualification.
Once you have passed PLAB 1, you can take the PLAB 2 examination in the UK. Read our blog for more information on how to sit PLAB 2, which includes everything that you need to know about how to sit the exam, syllabus, dates, results, fees and preparation.
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Read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!
Don’t hesitate to get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss doctor job options in the NHS, including discussions regarding CESR, a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable NHS jobs & hospital locations for you.
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A leading NHS mental health hospital in the East of England is looking for a Consultant Psychiatrist in General Adult Psychiatry with an interest in acute inpatient care. The psychiatry department consists of a team of consultant psychiatrists and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors. This General Adult Psychiatry job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or MRCPsych are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Consultant level experience in psychiatry
Be eligible for GMC registration, either with MRCPsych (Full), or EEA specialist certification
Anyone with an interest and prior experience in acute inpatient psychiatry should apply.
The salary will be between £105,504 to £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
Provide consultant leadership and psychiatric input into the acute inpatient unit.
Work closely with the multidisciplinary team, ensuring strong links with community teams.
Supervise junior doctors and support their training and professional development.
Participate in strategic planning, governance meetings, and service development.
LIFE IN THE REGION
This region offers a mix of urban and rural living, with vibrant city life and picturesque countryside nearby. Popular areas include city centre locations for convenience and scenic villages for a quieter lifestyle. The area is well connected, with excellent transport links, top-rated schools, and various leisure activities, including shopping, outdoor parks, and cultural events.
Rich in history, this region is known for its medieval architecture and contributions to British heritage, making it an attractive place to live and work.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:
Document gathering and checking
COS and Visa Application support if applicable
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
Travel Arrangements
Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
A leading NHS hospital in the East of England is looking for a Consultant Haematologist with an interest in Lymphoma. The Haematology department consists of a team of consultant haematologists and is supported by middle-grade doctors. This Haematology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or FRCPath are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Extensive experience and independence in haematology is required for this role, and anyone with an interest in Lymphoma should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 to £139,882, dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
LIFE IN THE REGION
This region offers a blend of city and rural living, with a choice between urban centres for convenience and scenic villages for a quieter lifestyle. The area has great transport links, excellent schools, and diverse leisure opportunities, including historic sites, parks, and family-friendly attractions. The region is historically significant, with
landmarks dating back to medieval times and strong ties to British aviation history.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role including:
An NHS hospital in the South East of England is looking for a Consultant Clinical Oncologist with an interest in Breast Oncology. The Oncology department comprises a team of experienced Medical and Clinical Oncologists, supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors and a robust research unit. This Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist or a suitable Royal College qualification are most encouraged to apply.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
Full or specialist registration with the General Medical Council (GMC) or eligibility within six months is required for this role. Anyone with an interest in breast cancer should apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 per annum, dependent on experience and grade.
The South East of England offers a mix of coastal and countryside living, with excellent urban options and picturesque rural retreats. The region provides easy access to London and international travel, making it a convenient yet scenic place to live and work.
The area is home to top-performing schools, a thriving job market, and fantastic leisure activities, including watersports, hiking trails, and cultural festivals. There is a strong medical and academic presence, with opportunities for research and collaboration.
Historically, the region played a key role in shaping England, from medieval battles to its significant contributions to maritime history. The blend of heritage and modern development makes it an exciting place to live and work.
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll then be supported and led throughout by one of our dedicated relocation executives who will guide you through all the way to starting your new role, including:
A UK-based mental health trust is looking for a Specialty Doctor in Older Adult Inpatient Psychiatry to join their team at a well-established psychiatric inpatient unit. The Older Adult Psychiatry department includes consultants, specialty doctors, junior doctors, and a multidisciplinary team, offering comprehensive care to inpatients. This role is open to both UK-based and international doctors, particularly those with MRCPsych or equivalent European Specialist qualifications.
The region offers an attractive combination of coastal and rural living, with easy access to major cities and transport links. Doctors moving here can choose between bustling town life or scenic countryside retreats.
The area boasts excellent schools, leisure facilities, and strong transport connections, making it a great choice for professionals and families. Historically, it has a rich cultural and architectural heritage, with numerous attractions for residents to enjoy.
When applying with IMG Connect, you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
Once you have accepted your new role, you’ll be supported by one of our dedicated relocation executives, who will guide you through the process, including: