what is the PLAB Exam pattern?

PLAB 1:

The PLAB 1 exam is a computer-based written examination that consists of 180 single-best-answer multiple-choice questions. The questions are divided into two papers, each containing 90 questions. You have three hours to complete both papers, with a break of 20 minutes in between.

The questions in PLAB 1 cover a wide range of topics in medicine, including basic medical sciences, clinical knowledge, and the principles of good medical practice. The questions are designed to test your understanding of these topics, as well as your ability to apply your knowledge to clinical scenarios.

PLAB 2:

The PLAB 2 exam is a practical examination that assesses your clinical skills and your ability to communicate effectively with patients and colleagues. The exam consists of 18 scenarios, each lasting 14 minutes. You will have two minutes to read the instructions before each scenario.

The scenarios in PLAB 2 are designed to reflect common clinical situations encountered in UK medical practice. You will be assessed on your ability to take a history, perform a physical examination, and formulate a management plan. You will also be assessed on your communication skills, including your ability to explain diagnoses and treatments to patients and their families.

Each scenario in PLAB 2 is observed by two examiners. One examiner will assess your clinical skills, while the other will assess your communication skills.

Passing the Exam:

pass the PLAB exam, you must pass both PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 within a maximum of four attempts each.

In PLAB 1, you must score at least 120 out of 180 to pass. The result of PLAB 1 is valid for a period of two years from the date of the exam. If you do not pass PLAB 1 within four attempts, you must wait for a period of two years from the date of your last attempt before you can take the exam again.

In PLAB 2, you must achieve an overall score of at least 117 out of 180 to pass. The result of PLAB 2 is valid for a period of two years from the date of the exam. If you do not pass PLAB 2 within four attempts, you must wait for a period of two years from the date of your last attempt before you can take the exam again.

It is important to note that the number of attempts you have taken and the results of your previous attempts will be disclosed to the General Medical Council (GMC), the regulatory body for doctors in the UK. This information may be taken into account when you apply for registration with the GMC or for jobs in the UK.

how many attempts takes PLAB Exam?

You are allowed a maximum of four attempts for each component of the PLAB exam – PLAB 1 and PLAB 2. If you do not pass PLAB 1 or PLAB 2 within four attempts, you will need to wait for two years from the date of your last attempt before you can take the exam again.

For example, if you have attempted PLAB 1 three times and were unsuccessful, you have one more attempt remaining. If you fail that fourth attempt, you must wait for two years from the date of that fourth attempt before you can retake PLAB 1.

Similarly, if you have attempted PLAB 2 three times and were unsuccessful, you have one more attempt remaining. If you fail that fourth attempt, you must wait for two years from the date of that fourth attempt before you can retake PLAB 2.