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:

Data gathering, technical and assessment skills
Clinical management skills
Interpersonal skills

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:

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.

Show All IMG Library

Relevant Jobs

Child and Adolescent Consultant Psychiatrist

105,504 - 139,882

South East

Fixed Term

A UK-based mental health service is seeking a Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist to join their Neurodevelopmental Team. This is a part-time (0.8 FTE), permanent post, offering an exciting opportunity to take on a senior clinical leadership role within a well-established specialist service for children and adolescents with complex neurodevelopmental conditions.

The team operates within a multidisciplinary framework, delivering comprehensive assessments, pharmacological treatment, and evidence-based care for young people. The role is ideal for experienced consultants looking to shape service delivery while maintaining strong clinical involvement.

This opportunity is also open to international applicants, particularly those eligible for inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register and who will be applying via CESR.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

Job Title: Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist – Neurodevelopmental Team
Contract: 8 Programmed Activities (PAs) per week – Part-Time
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £105,000 – £139,000 (pro rata, dependent on experience)

Applicants must have:

Full GMC registration with a licence to practise
GMC Specialist Register in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Section 12(2) MHA approval, or a willingness to complete this upon appointment
Experience working in child, adolescent, or neurodevelopmental psychiatric services
Strong leadership, multidisciplinary collaboration, and communication skills
The ability to travel independently across service sites, including schools and service users\' homes

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

Lead on psychiatric assessments, diagnosis, and pharmacological treatment planning for young people with complex and/or high-risk neurodevelopmental presentations.
Provide consultation and guidance to the multidisciplinary team, as well as external agencies including paediatrics, schools, Tier 4 providers, and primary care.
Maintain clinical oversight for young people under the care of the team, participating in emergency assessments and the consultant out-of-hours rota.
Attend and contribute to weekly multidisciplinary team meetings and clinical formulations.
Collaborate with carers, families, and professionals to co-create effective, evidence-based care plans.
Support transitions from child to adult mental health services in line with protocol.
Fulfil duties under the Mental Health Act, including conducting assessments and contributing to reports and tribunals as required.
Maintain clear and timely medical documentation and support audit and quality improvement initiatives.

MANAGEMENT & STRATEGIC RESPONSIBILITIES

Provide senior clinical leadership in partnership with the non-medical Clinical Team Lead.
Contribute to the development of service-wide clinical guidelines and care pathways.
Support service planning and transformation initiatives based on emerging need.
Actively participate in governance activities, clinical audit, and performance monitoring.
Engage with stakeholders and external partners at strategic and operational levels.

LIFE IN THE REGION

This role is based in a well-connected and scenic part of the UK, ideal for those who enjoy a balance between urban accessibility and countryside living. With excellent road and rail links, London is just 1 hour by train and car, offering easy commuting and travel.

The area is highly attractive for families, with access to top-rated schools, green open spaces, and a vibrant local community. Whether you\'re seeking historic towns, cultural attractions, or tranquil rural retreats, this region offers something for everyone.

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 interview preparation sessions.
Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more.

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:

Document gathering and checking.
COS and Visa Application support, if applicable.
Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation.
Travel arrangements and family support for finding schools and other aspects of pastoral care.

Consultant Clinical Oncology (Urology)

105,504- 139,882

Fixed Term

An NHS teaching hospital in Kent is looking for a Consultant in Clinical Oncology with an interest in urology. The Oncology department comprises a team of over 40 Clinical and Medical Oncology consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors, fellows, and trainees.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

This Clinical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.CCT in Clinical Oncology or equivalent experience, including CESR pathway candidates.
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

Provide high-quality specialist care to melanoma patients attending the Kent Oncology Centre.
Attend relevant MDT meetings and coordinate treatment planning with other specialists.
Participate in departmental research initiatives and contribute to national and local clinical trials.
Contribute to training and supervision of junior doctors and participate in clinical governance activities.

Life in Kent

The area offers the best of both worlds: urban living in towns like Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, and tranquil countryside villages such as Lenham or Goudhurst.

Kent boasts a wide range of excellent primary and secondary schools, including several grammar schools, and is well connected to London via high-speed rail and road. Residents enjoy easy access to historic castles, the coast, national parks, shopping, and outdoor activities—perfect for both adults and families.

Known as the “Garden of England,” Kent holds historical significance with its Roman heritage, medieval cathedrals, and coastal defense legacy, offering a unique blend of culture and natural beauty.

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 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

Geriatric Medicine Consultant

£116600

Wales

Fixed Term

An NHS general hospital in Wales is seeking a Locum Consultant in Geriatric Medicine with a special interest in Orthogeriatrics. The department includes a team of 9 consultants and is supported by a large middle grade doctor team. This Geriatric Medicine role welcomes both UK-based and international applicants, especially those holding MRCP(UK) or equivalent qualifications.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

Applicants should hold full GMC registration and MRCP, with solid experience in general and geriatric medicine. Subspecialty interest in Geriatric Medicine is desirable

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

Oversee inpatient care for 15–20 patients alongside a multidisciplinary team
Supervise and collaborate with junior medical staff and allied professionals.
Provide one outpatient clinic per week in geriatric medicine or a relevant subspecialty.
Take part in education, audits, and continuous service improvement projects.

LIFE IN WALES

This role is based in a picturesque Welsh town offering both urban convenience and rural tranquility, with popular residential areas including charming market towns and countryside villages.
The region provides great schooling options, strong transport connections, and plenty of family-friendly leisure activities.
Historically rich, the area features medieval architecture and has played a significant role in Welsh and British 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:

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 to 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

Consultant Clinical Oncologist (Gynae and Upper GI)

105,504- 139,882

Fixed Term

An NHS specialist cancer centre in Lancashire and South Cumbria is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in gynae and upper GI cancers. The oncology department comprises a team of 8 consultants and is supported by a large team of middle grade doctors.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case by case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

This oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist registration or FRCR are most encouraged to apply.

Anyone with an interest in gynae and upper GI oncology should apply.
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

Provide systemic therapy services for patients across UHMB sites.

Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and support associated administrative duties.

Lead and contribute to acute oncology services across the Trust (no on-call required).

Support teaching, supervision, and mentorship for junior medical staff and trainees.

LIFE IN LANCASHIRE AND SOUTH CUMBRIA

The area is rich with excellent schools, convenient rail and road links, and beautiful scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically, the region has played a key role in British shipbuilding and industrial development and today combines coastal charm with cultural heritage and modern living.

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 to 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

Consultant Medical Oncologist (Melanoma)

105,504- 139,882

Fixed Term

An NHS teaching hospital, in Kent is looking for a Consultant in Medical Oncology with an interest in Melanoma. The Oncology department comprises a team of over 40 Clinical and Medical Oncology consultants and is supported by a large team of middle-grade doctors, fellows, and trainees.

Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS

This Medical Oncology job is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, though those with European Specialist qualifications or MRCP are most encouraged to apply.CCT in Medical Oncology or equivalent experience, including CESR pathway candidates.
The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882 dependent on experience or grade.

CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE

Provide high-quality specialist care to melanoma patients attending the Kent Oncology Centre.
Attend relevant MDT meetings and coordinate treatment planning with other specialists.
Participate in departmental research initiatives and contribute to national and local clinical trials.
Contribute to training and supervision of junior doctors and participate in clinical governance activities.

Life in Kent

The area offers the best of both worlds: urban living in towns like Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, and tranquil countryside villages such as Lenham or Goudhurst.

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 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

See All