How to Prepare for the PLAB 2 Exam
- January 27, 2023
Overseas doctors often have questions about the best ways to prepare for the PLAB exams, particularly with so many online resources available with varying reviews and price points.
So, what study preparation, materials, courses and support are available for international doctors? We have compiled some of the best guidance and resources to help you in your preparation for the PLAB 2 exam.
The topics we will cover are as follows:
- What is the PLAB 2 exam?
- What do I need in preparation for the PLAB 2 exam?
- What resources are available?
- Tips for tackling PLAB 2
- Passed? What’s next?
For an overview of the entire examination series, have a look at our article in the IMG Resources library here.
A Recap of PLAB 2
Let’s begin with a quick recap of the final exam in the PLAB examination suite.
PLAB 2 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 most importantly a trainee’s ability to apply knowledge to the care of patients.
Questions relate to current best practice in the UK, and you’ll need to answer the questions in relation to published evidence and not according to practices within your local arrangements. There are three domains across which trainees will be assessed:
For full guidance on the structure of the exam, see our detailed blog on the PLAB 2 exam here.
Preparation
The PLAB 2 exam is held at two assessment centres in Manchester in the UK only. Which of the two centres your exam will be held in will be contained in your booking confirmation, including the address.
You can book your PLAB 2 examination using your GMC Online account where you can view available dates and book under the My Tests section – you will already have created an account for the PLAB 1 exam.
Before you can book a space for PLAB 2, you must already have passed PLAB 1.
Resources for PLAB 2
There are many resources to choose from online in starting your preparation for PLAB 2, however we recommend the following GMC guides to help you start your preparation.
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.
MLA Content Map: the GMC will be introducing the UKMLA in 2024 and in anticipation of this, the content map should also be used during preparation. The questions and stations in PLAB 2 will remain the same. The content map is available 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). The curriculum can be found here.
Guidance and interactive tools: the GMC ‘Good Medical Practice’ document explains the core advice to doctors on the standards expected of them. In the exam you will be expected to demonstrate the professional values and behaviours set out in ‘Good Medical Practice'.
You can test your knowledge of Good Medical Practice using the following online tools:
- Explanatory guidance
- Good Medical Practice in action interactive online tool
- Welcome to UK practice interactive online tool
Avoiding common PLAB 2 errors: You can read the GMC’s examiners’ top tips on how to avoid common errors in the part 2 exam here.
Top tips from an examiner: You can find a list of top tips for PLAB from the perspective of an examiner here.
Sample OSCE station: you can find an example of what you will experience in your PLAB 2 stations here.
Getting Started
Below is some of our best advice for IMGs preparing to sit PLAB 2.
1. Apply for your visa well in advance
The application process consists of two parts: the online application and the submission of supporting documents. You can find a detailed guide to the application process here.
2. Consider other essentials for the exam
You will need evidence of English language proficiency as well as a GMC online account and these (particularly your English exam) will need to be prepared in advance.
3. Start your revision early
Starting in advance allows you to pace yourself and get ahead of the stresses of last-minute revision and anxiety.
4. Familiarise yourself with the structure of the exam day
The GMC have produced a handy guide of what you will encounter when you go to sit the exam. You can find this here.
5. Think about your personal learning style and use this to plan effective revision
Consider the ways you study best and use them to your advantage. You do not need to attend a study or coaching course to pass PLAB 2 and can be passed under your own preparation - if you choose to do so, please be thorough in assessing different providers.
6. Try to form a study group
Team up with other like-minded doctors or colleagues preparing for PLAB 2 to allow you to share resources and support.
7. Try to take some time off work before the exam
You’ll likely be preparing for the exam alongside full-time work, so, if possible, take around 5-7 days somewhere in the run-up to the exam for some intense revision.
Passed? What next?
Once you have passed PLAB 2, you are eligible for GMC registration with license to practise. Great stuff!
You may want to start looking for NHS jobs and with the click of a button, you can receive them directly to your inbox. To receive job postings which you can tailor to your desired grade, specialty and location, sign up for our NHS job alerts.
For more useful articles on registrations and career and relocation support for your journey to the UK, take a look at our IMG library.
Relevant Jobs
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Consultant in Emergency Medicine to join a UK-based NHS Trust. This role provides CESR Portfolio Pathway support, and international applications from IMGs are welcome.
What is the NHS Trust like?
This NHS Trust provides high-quality hospital and community care to its local population and visitors. The Trust operates multiple acute and community hospitals across the region, offering a comprehensive range of medical services. The Trust has received high ratings from the Care Quality Commission for its care and effectiveness. The Emergency Departments within the Trust provide round-the-clock services, backed by a full range of diagnostic and therapy options.
What is the department & team like?
The Emergency Medicine department is a vital part of the Trust’s Urgent Care Division. The department is well-equipped with modern facilities, including advanced radiology services and electronic health record systems. The team is composed of experienced consultants, doctors, and nursing staff, providing continuous coverage and comprehensive care. The department also includes specialized teams for psychiatric and rehabilitative care, ensuring holistic treatment for all patients.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training and accreditation within Emergency Medicine, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support and access to specialty training. The department supports the development of sub-specialist interests and offers opportunities for research, teaching, and clinical governance. The role is designed to support professional growth and career progression.
What is area like?
This region in the UK offers a compelling lifestyle for international doctors and their families. With affordable living costs, beautiful natural surroundings, and excellent educational institutions, it is an ideal location for relocation. The area is well-connected, with easy access to major cities, and offers a rich cultural experience with a diverse population and various recreational activities.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
- Board Certified Specialist in Emergency Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- MRCEM UK
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Emergency Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
WHAT IS THE NHS TRUST LIKE?
This is one of the country’s top performing NHS foundation trusts, looking after the wellbeing of around half a million people. Hospital services are provided from 4 hospitals, with care also provided in people’s homes and other community facilities. They are also planning to rebuild a nearby existing community hospital, replacing the old hospital with an integrated health and social care facility. They have also opened a state-of-the-art NHS centre to bring together outpatient and diagnostic services, as well as primary care, under one roof. The Trust has received significant recognition including:
- Being named among the 40 best performing NHS organisations in CHKS Top Hospitals programme 2015 for the eighth consecutive year
- Rated 6th in the country for cancer patient experience (Macmillan)
- Named ‘overall best trust’ at Patient Experience Network National Awards 2014
- 11th in country in national A&E patient survey (CQC)
- Named ‘Provider Trust of the Year’ at the HSJ awards 2013
- Special recognition award at the national Patient Safety Congress
- Patient Safety Award for pharmacist prescribing (UK Clinical Pharmacy Association)
- British Medical Journal’s (BMJ) patient safety award for the trust’s Hip Quality
- Improvement Programme
In March 2015, they were also chosen as a ‘vanguard’ site by NHS England – one of eight sites in the country to be tasked with taking a national lead on transforming care for patients and in July 2015, Jeremy Hunt, the health secretary, named the trust as an NHS organisation providing the very best standard of seven-day services for our patients, a standard to which other NHS trusts should aspire. The trust offers a wide range of specialties with some of the largest specialist departments in the region, including the largest trauma and orthopaedics service, one of the largest cardiology departments and one of the largest units in the region for colorectal surgery services.
WHAT IS THE PATHOLOGY DEPARTMENT LIKE?
The department has full UKAS ISO 15189 accreditation. It\'s Histopathology and Cytopathology services are centralised into a custom-built laboratory in April 2003, which has accommodation for eight consultants plus specialist registrars. There is a well-equipped library and teaching suite within the department. Fully automated immunohistochemistry is provided with a comprehensive range of routine antibodies available at the Trust. The laboratories are served by the Telepath computer system with links across the Trust and NHS networks. PathoSys is used for reporting breast cores and resection specimens, colorectal cancer specimens, bowel cancer screening specimens, cervical punch and loop biopsies and bronchial biopsies and in line with recent advances in the field of histopathology, the department has introduced and have recently gone live with skin
reporting. The team consists of five consultant Histopathologists, two Specialty Doctors, plus up to two specialist registrars on rotation from a nearby infirmary who cover histopathology and cytology on a rota basis. The non-gynae cytology plus the surgical histology workload will be shared equally.
WHAT CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE?
The Trust and Histopathology team are dedicated to supporting their doctors\' career development through devising a personal development plan, the post holder will be required to agree a programme of continuing professional development which meets his/her and service provision requirements. Regular MDT meetings are held for lung, colorectal, breast and upper GI. High definition videoconferencing and slide projection facilities are available in the MDT suites on the North Tyneside and Wansbeck sites and there will also be opportunity for the development of teaching experience. Undergraduate students from the affiliated University are regularly attached to clinical teams within the Trust and the new appointee would be expected to undertake teaching at an undergraduate level throughout the Trust, including the assessment of clinical medical students and examining from time to time.
They would also be expected to to participate in clinical audit activities (personal, departmental and inter-departmental) including clinical audit meetings. The post holder will have a reflective approach to their own practice with an ability to acknowledge poor behaviour and act upon feedback sought from others during the Trusts 360o appraisal.
The Trust has also puts emphasis on their commitment to the development of leadership skills.
LIFE IN THE REGION:
The region offers both the opportunity for scenery but also city living. Firstly, there is easy accessibility to one of the finest coasts in Britain, with unspoilt sandy beaches and wild rocky headlands, as well as the National Park with its 400 square miles of wooded valleys and open moorland rich in wildlife. The North Pennines are an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the wildest and least populated region of high moorland in England. Sailing, golf, fishing, riding, walking, cycling, rock climbing, gliding and watersport facilities abound and there are most types of sporting and leisure pursuits including major national football, rugby, cricket, athletics and horse racing venues within easy reach.
Then, the vibrant and modern city of Newcastle-upon-Tyne is the major educational, cultural and business centre for the North East of England and offers a combination of lively bars, top-rated nightclubs and many musical and theatrical attractions. Eldon Square is an excellent shopping centre in the City and for a complete shopping experience, the Metro Centre in Gateshead boasts over 360 shops and services all under one roof. A magnificent new Concert Hall has been constructed on the opposite side of the river to the Quayside Development.
A neighbouring pleasant market town boasts a race course, three golf courses, an historic abbey and a country park, is located 20 miles west of Newcastle upon-Tyne. Situated in the Tyne Valley, Hexham is the focal point for the rural Tynedale District, the largest local authority district in England and one of the most consistently beautiful. The town enjoys good road and public transport links to Newcastle. To the west of Hexham is the City of Carlisle and the M6. The town is also particularly well placed for access to the Lake District.
For families, local education opportunities are very good, with a number of league-leading junior, senior and sixth form schools and colleges in both the private and public sector. Housing is excellent with a wide range of affordable properties both period and modern. As a result of the proximity to the National Park, its historic centre and relative prosperity, this area is now one of the most popular residential locations in North East England with reasonable house prices. The region also has an excellent road, rail and metro network, and the busy ports have regular sailings to the continent. From Newcastle International Airport, flights are available to most national and international destinations.
AM I ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA candidates:
- Recognised European Medical Degree or Specialist Qualification in Histopathology
- Full and specialist registration (and with a license to practice) with the General Medical Council or be eligible for registration within six months of interview
- Experience in postmortem, and prostate and skin pathology
Non-EEA candidates:
- FRCPath
- Full and specialist registration (and with a license to practice) with the General Medical Council or be eligible for registration within six months of interview
- Experience in postmortem, and prostate and skin pathology
UK-based candidates:
- Within 6-months of CESR or CCT in Histopathology
- Experience in postmortem, and prostate and skin pathology
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Locum Consultant Histopathology to join this NHS Trust as a Consultant working in an established Histopathology department in the UK. This NHS job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support, and international applications from IMGs are welcome.
The NHS Trust
This NHS Trust is a modern and progressive healthcare organization located in the UK. The Trust provides a wide range of acute and general hospital services, serving a large and diverse population. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to providing the highest quality care, the Trust is dedicated to supporting the professional growth of its staff. The Trust has a strong focus on patient-centered care and works closely with the community to ensure the delivery of comprehensive health services. As an NHS Trust, it offers a dynamic and supportive environment, making it an ideal place for doctors looking to develop their careers within the NHS.
The Trust is also involved in various research initiatives and collaborates with academic institutions, further enhancing its reputation as a leader in healthcare. This is an excellent NHS job opportunity for those interested in joining a forward-thinking organization committed to clinical excellence.
The Department & Team
The Histopathology Department at this NHS Trust is a well-established and highly regarded unit within the organization. The department is equipped with the latest diagnostic technologies, enabling the delivery of high-quality pathology services. The team is composed of experienced consultants, specialty doctors, and a skilled support staff, all working collaboratively to provide accurate and timely diagnostic services. The department plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and management of various medical conditions, making it an integral part of the hospital’s operations.
The team is known for its supportive and inclusive environment, which encourages continuous learning and professional development. Regular multidisciplinary meetings and case discussions are held to ensure the highest standards of patient care. This NHS job offers an excellent opportunity for doctors to join a team that values clinical excellence and is committed to providing the best possible outcomes for patients.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training and accreditation within Histopathology, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interest. The Histopathology Department at this NHS Trust is dedicated to the continuous professional development of its staff. Doctors joining the department will have access to a wide range of educational resources, including regular training sessions, workshops, and seminars. The department also encourages participation in research activities and offers support for those interested in pursuing academic qualifications.
Additionally, there are opportunities to attend national and international conferences, further enhancing the learning experience. The Trust’s commitment to professional development ensures that doctors are well-equipped to achieve their career goals while contributing to the advancement of medical knowledge.
Location
This area in the UK is an excellent place for international doctors to relocate to, offering a high quality of life for both individuals and families. The region is known for its affordable cost of living compared to other parts of the UK, making it an attractive option for those looking to settle in the country. Safety is a top priority, with the area boasting low crime rates and a friendly community atmosphere. The region is home to a variety of schools, both public and private, that provide excellent educational opportunities for children. There are numerous things to do, from exploring beautiful parks and natural areas to enjoying a vibrant arts and culture scene.
The area also benefits from excellent transport connections, with easy access to major cities via road and rail. Additionally, the region is diverse and multicultural, making it a welcoming place for people from all backgrounds.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
- Experience in Histopathology
EEA candidates:
- Experience in Histopathology
- European Specialist Qualification
Non-EEA candidates:
- FRCPath
- Experience in Histopathology
A fantastic NHS job opportunity has arisen for an experienced Consultant in COTE Acute Frailty to join a well-established Elderly Care team. This role provides a great chance to further your medical career in the United Kingdom. The job offers CESR Portfolio Pathway support, and international applications from IMGs are welcome.
What is the NHS Trust like?
This NHS Trust is respected and provides a wide range of services, including acute and community healthcare. The Trust operates hospitals that deliver high-quality care to patients in various specialisms, including Elderly Care. With a reputation for excellence in patient care, the Trust has a strong focus on medical education and research, offering a collaborative environment for doctors at all levels of their career. The Trust takes pride in its multidisciplinary approach to healthcare, ensuring patients receive integrated, holistic care. This NHS job is perfect for doctors seeking to join a supportive, innovative team that encourages professional growth and development.
What is the department & team like?
The Elderly Care department at this NHS Trust is renowned for its specialized services in Acute Frailty. The team consists of skilled healthcare professionals, including consultants, nurses, therapists, and social care workers, all working together to provide outstanding care to older patients. This NHS job will involve working within a well-established Acute Frailty Service, focusing on delivering early interventions for frail older adults, ensuring timely treatment, and effective discharge planning. Joining this department means being part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to optimizing elderly patient care in a dynamic hospital setting.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training & accreditation within Elderly Care, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop a sub-specialist interest. The department encourages ongoing professional development through a variety of training programs and educational opportunities, including conferences, workshops, and mentoring roles. Doctors are supported in their career progression, making this an ideal opportunity for those looking to advance their expertise in Elderly Care in the UK.
What is the location like?
Located in the United Kingdom, this area is an attractive option for international doctors and their families. With affordable living costs, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community, the region offers a high quality of life. There are plenty of things to do, from exploring beautiful parks and natural landscapes to enjoying cultural events and festivals. The area is well-connected to major cities, with easy access to London and international airports, ensuring convenience for both work and travel. The region’s blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and family-friendly amenities make it a great place to live and work in the UK.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
- Experience of working in Geriatric Medicine
- Board Certified Specialist in Geriatric Medicine
Non-EEA Candidates:
- MRCP
- Experience of working in Geriatric Medicine
UK based applicants
- Experience of working in Geriatric Medicine
- Within 6 - 12 months of completing CCT
An excellent NHS job opportunity for an experienced Locum Consultant Interventional Radiologist has arisen at an excellent NHS Foundation Trust. This role offers an exciting chance to develop your medical career within the UK, working in a progressive and dynamic healthcare environment. The position involves delivering a range of interventional radiology services, including vascular and non-vascular procedures. You will be joining a highly skilled team and working alongside radiographers, nurses, and surgeons to provide the best possible care to patients. The Trust is committed to offering a supportive environment for international medical graduates (IMGs), and applications from overseas doctors are welcomed.
This NHS job provides full support for the CESR Portfolio Pathway, enabling you to achieve your Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration. Whether you are looking to further develop your expertise in interventional radiology or explore sub-specialist interests, this role offers a fantastic platform for professional growth. With a focus on both patient care and career development, this is an excellent opportunity to advance your career within the NHS.
The NHS Trust
This NHS Foundation Trust is a leading healthcare provider known for its commitment to delivering high-quality patient care. Serving a population of over 657,000 people, the Trust offers a wide range of medical specialties, including vascular surgery, neonatal intensive care, and stroke services. Formed through a merger in 2020, the Trust now operates across multiple sites and has quickly established itself as a center of excellence in the region. The Trust’s state-of-the-art facilities include cutting-edge imaging and diagnostic equipment, allowing staff to provide advanced medical care to a diverse patient population. The Trust is also at the forefront of medical innovation, having introduced robotic surgery and other advanced treatment modalities in recent years. With over 9,000 staff members, the Trust places a strong emphasis on continuous professional development, ensuring all healthcare professionals have access to the latest training and education opportunities. The Trust\'s dedication to both patient care and staff development makes it an attractive employer for UK-based and international doctors?.
The Radiology Department & Team
The Radiology Department at this NHS Foundation Trust offers a comprehensive imaging service that supports both emergency and elective care. With a dedicated team of consultants, radiographers, and support staff, the department performs over 172,000 imaging examinations each year, including CT, MRI, and ultrasound scans. As a Locum Consultant Interventional Radiologist, you will be responsible for delivering a range of procedures, including biopsies, drainages, and complex hepatobiliary interventions. The department also plays a key role in supporting multidisciplinary team meetings, working closely with other specialties such as vascular surgery, gastroenterology, and urology to ensure seamless patient care.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training and accreditation within Radiology, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interests. The Trust is committed to professional development, offering opportunities to engage in research and teaching, ensuring you stay at the cutting edge of medical practice.
Location
This position is based in a thriving region in the UK, known for its balance of urban amenities and natural beauty. The area offers excellent transport links, making it an ideal choice for professionals and their families. The region also boasts affordable living, top-tier schools, and a wide array of recreational activities, making it a highly desirable location for both UK-based and international candidates.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
UK based applicants:
- Consultant experience in Interventional Radiology
- Or within 6 months of completing CESR or CCT in Radiology
- Consultant experience in Radiology
- Recognised European Medical Degree or Specialist Qualification in Radiology
- FRCR
- Consultant experience in Interventional Radiology