PLAB 1 for international medical graduates
PLAB 1 is a 180-question single-best-answer written exam that tests knowledge you would expect a doctor about to start UK Foundation Year 2 to have. It is held in over 20 countries several times a year. To book, you need a GMC-acceptable primary medical qualification and current English evidence. Passing PLAB 1 is required before you can book PLAB 2.
What this covers
Confirm eligibility
Acceptable primary medical qualification, current English evidence, and a GMC Online account.
Book a sitting
Sitting fee is set by the GMC. Slots are released a few months ahead and popular locations fill fast.
Take the exam
Three-hour, 180-question paper. The pass mark is set for each sitting by the standard-setting group.
Plan the next step
Passing PLAB 1 opens a two-year window in which you must pass PLAB 2.
Read the guides in this cluster
- PLAB 1 preparation & bookingA practical guide to preparing for and booking PLAB 1 — eligibility checks, booking strategy, an 8–12 week study plan, and the common mistakes to avoid.
- PLAB 1 eligibilityWho can sit PLAB 1, the primary medical qualification and English evidence needed to book, and common eligibility blockers.
- PLAB 1 feesThe current PLAB 1 fee, what it includes, cancellation and transfer rules, and how to budget for a resit.
- PLAB 1 exam locationsWhere PLAB 1 is held internationally, how sitting dates are released, and how to choose the best location for your timeline.
- PLAB 1 results and pass markWhen PLAB 1 results are released, how the pass mark is set, and what your result letter is used for.
- What to do after passing PLAB 1The next steps after passing PLAB 1: booking PLAB 2, planning travel, starting EPIC, and the two-year window rule.
Official sources
Every fact above should be confirmed against the controlling source before you act on it.