- The PLAB test has two parts: a written applied knowledge test (AKT) and a clinical and professional skills assessment (CPSA).
- Candidates must pass both parts within a maximum of four attempts at each.
- From 1 April 2026 the fees are £283 for Part 1 and £1,036 for Part 2.
- Candidates must show the necessary knowledge of English before they are allowed to take PLAB.
What the GMC says the test is for
The GMC says the PLAB test is how most international medical graduates show they have the knowledge and skills for full registration with a licence to practise. It is designed to assess what a doctor needs to work safely in a Foundation Programme year 2 training role without extra support beyond what is typically expected, including professional values and behaviours. The content comes from the Medical Licensing Assessment content map. Passing both parts means a doctor can apply for full registration with a licence to practise.
The two parts
| Part | Format | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Part 1 | Applied knowledge test (AKT), a written exam | Held at various locations around the world |
| Part 2 | Clinical and professional skills assessment (CPSA), in the style of an OSCE | The GMC's clinical assessment centre |
Fees and cancellation charges
| Item | From 1 April 2025 | From 1 April 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| PLAB Part 1 | £273 | £283 |
| PLAB Part 2 | £998 | £1,036 |
| Part 1 cancelled more than 42 days before (10%) | £27.30 | £28.30 |
| Part 1 cancelled 42 days or less before (100%) | £273 | £283 |
| Part 2 cancelled more than 42 days before (10%) | £99.80 | £103.60 |
| Part 2 cancelled 42 to 29 days before (50%) | £499 | £518 |
| Part 2 cancelled 28 days or less before (100%) | £998 | £1,036 |
The GMC says it may consider refunding a cancellation fee where exceptional circumstances stop you attending. Fees were read on the GMC fees page on 5 October 2026.
English comes first
International doctors must show the necessary knowledge of English before the GMC lets them take PLAB. The GMC says most do this with its minimum scores in IELTS or in the medicine version of the OET. The requirements are set out at GMC English language requirements.
A sensible order of work
- Confirm your English evidence meets the GMC's current minimum.
- Read the GMC's PLAB pages and the Medical Licensing Assessment content map.
- Book Part 1 through your GMC account, noting the 42-day cancellation point.
- After passing, book Part 2 and plan travel to the clinical assessment centre.
- Keep count: four attempts at each part is the ceiling the GMC gives.
Where scams come in
The GMC runs the test and the GMC decides who passes. Nobody else can sell you a place, a result or a shortcut, and a fee to an “agent” for arranging a pass is not buying anything the GMC provides. Employers who rely on a PLAB claim should check the register, not a certificate; see how employers verify doctors. The whole process for doctors is at registering as an overseas doctor, and fake claims are covered at fake doctor cases.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the PLAB test?
From 1 April 2026, PLAB Part 1 costs £283 and Part 2 costs £1,036, according to the GMC. The GMC reviews fees each April, so check its fees page before booking. Cancellation charges and refunds are on the same GMC page and depend on how early you cancel.
How many times can I take PLAB?
Candidates must pass both parts within a maximum of four attempts at each part, according to the GMC. Plan your booking and preparation with that limit in mind. The GMC does not offer a shortcut around those attempts, and no agent can add extra ones.
Where are the two parts held?
Part 1, the applied knowledge test, is a written exam held at various locations around the world. Part 2, the clinical and professional skills assessment, is held at the GMC's clinical assessment centre. Check the GMC's own pages for the locations offered and the booking rules at the time you apply.
What does the GMC charge if I cancel?
For Part 1, 10% (£28.30) if more than 42 days before, and the full £283 within 42 days. For Part 2, 10% (£103.60) over 42 days, 50% (£518) between 42 and 29 days, and the full £1,036 within 28 days. The GMC says it may consider refunding a cancellation fee in exceptional circumstances.
Can an agent get me a PLAB pass?
No. The GMC sets, runs and marks PLAB, and only the GMC decides a result. Anyone selling a pass or an unofficial place is offering something the GMC does not provide, and you should not pay. Book only through your own GMC account, and treat any other seller as a warning sign.