PLAB & GMC Support
PLAB support for
international
doctors.
Structured guidance for PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 applicants — eligibility, exam preparation, GMC registration, visa processing and UK career planning from start to finish.
Know the difference
PLAB 1 vs PLAB 2 — what to expect.
PLAB 1
Our prep advice
Typically 3–6 months of structured revision. Past papers and question banks are essential.
PLAB 2
Our prep advice
Hands-on coaching. Practising with clinical partners is essential — purely academic revision is not enough.
Step by step
From your overseas degree to GMC registration.
Eligibility Check
Verify your primary medical qualification meets GMC requirements and confirm English language eligibility.
English Language Test
Achieve IELTS 7.5 (7.0 each band) or OET B in all sub-tests. We offer in-house OET preparation.
PLAB 1 Exam
Register for and pass the PLAB 1 MCQ examination. You have three attempts within three years.
Visitor Visa for PLAB 2
Apply for a UK Standard Visitor visa to sit PLAB 2 in Manchester. We advise on supporting documents.
PLAB 2 OSCE
Pass the 18-station OSCE in Manchester. A dedicated clinical skills coach makes a significant difference here.
GMC Registration
Apply for full GMC registration with a licence to practise. We compile the complete evidence bundle and submit on your behalf.
What we handle
End-to-end support at every stage.
Eligibility & documentation
We review your primary medical qualification and internship against GMC requirements so your application is correct first time.
PLAB 1 preparation
Advice on study resources, question banks, and scheduling your exam at a British Council centre near you.
PLAB 2 coaching
Clinical skills coaching and OSCE practice sessions — the most impactful investment before the Manchester exam.
English language (OET)
In-house OET preparation tailored to doctors. Diagnostic assessment, expert tutors, and realistic practice tests.
UK visa support
Standard Visitor visa for PLAB 2, Skilled Worker routes after GMC registration, and NHS Trust sponsorship guidance.
UK career planning
Clinical attachment guidance, trust grade posts, foundation equivalent routes and strategies for your first NHS role.
Why Global Pathways
Specialist IMGs advisors — not generalists.
Fees
How much does PLAB cost?
The full cost from your first PLAB 1 sitting to GMC registration typically falls between £2,300 and £3,500 on a first-attempt basis — before coaching fees and study materials. The largest single cost is PLAB 2 at £1,036, which also requires travel to Manchester.
After GMC registration, the Health and Care Worker Visa is the standard route to working in the UK — with no IHS, fees from £304, and a 5-year path to ILR.
PLAB cost breakdown — 2026
FAQ
Common questions about PLAB and GMC registration.
How many attempts do I get for PLAB?
You may attempt PLAB 1 up to four times and PLAB 2 up to four times. A fifth attempt is permitted in exceptional circumstances if you provide evidence of additional training and support from a responsible officer.
Can I sit PLAB 1 in Pakistan or India?
Yes. PLAB 1 is offered at British Council centres in Pakistan (Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad), India (multiple cities), Nigeria, Egypt, and many other countries. Seats are extremely competitive — book as early as possible via the GMC booking portal.
Do I need to complete my internship before PLAB?
You do not need internship evidence to sit PLAB 1 or PLAB 2. However, you must provide proof of internship (or equivalent postgraduate experience) when you apply for full GMC registration after passing PLAB 2.
What is the difference between PLAB and the UKMLA?
The UKMLA (UK Medical Licensing Assessment) is the new licensing framework for UK-trained doctors graduating from 2024 onwards. International medical graduates continue to take PLAB. Since 2024, however, PLAB content has been aligned to the UKMLA content map — meaning the knowledge tested is now the same for both UK and international doctors.
How long does GMC registration take after passing PLAB 2?
Once you pass PLAB 2 and submit all required documents (internship evidence, identity documents, English language certificate), GMC registration typically takes 2–6 weeks. You must apply within two years of passing PLAB 2 — after this, the pass lapses.
Can I work as a doctor before GMC registration?
No. You cannot legally practise as a doctor in the UK without full GMC registration with a licence to practise. Some NHS trusts offer observer or clinical attachment positions while your application is being processed — these are unpaid and do not involve clinical responsibility.
Free consultation
Ready to start your UK medical career?
Tell us your primary medical qualification and country. A Global Pathways advisor will review your PLAB eligibility and map the quickest route to GMC registration — completely free.
Email us directly
info@globalpathways.co.ukResponse time
Within 1 working day