Cancelling or amending your booking, and our approach to other exam disruptions

How do you cancel your exam booking? 

You can cancel your exam booking via our PLAB booking service, which you can access by logging into your GMC Online account.

We will deduct a PLAB cancellation fee when you cancel your place.

Can I swap my existing booking?

If you hold a booking already, you can view other dates currently available in our PLAB booking service in GMC Online.

If you want to book an alternative place, you must first cancel your current booking. Please be aware that we will deduct a PLAB cancellation fee at the time of cancellation.

Once you’ve done this, you can book any other place you’re eligible for.

Please read the guidance in the PLAB booking service carefully before doing so.

Are you entitled to a refund of the cancellation fee?

We'll consider giving you a full refund where exceptional circumstances arise that prevent you from attending your exam such as visa refusal, the introduction of travel restrictions, ill health or bereavement.

If you believe you are entitled to a refund, you should first cancel your place and then email evidence of your circumstances. We will then consider whether we can refund your cancellation fee. 

What if the exam is cancelled by the GMC or their exam providers?

We’re committed to offering PLAB 1 dates throughout the year at a wide number of venues, and we always plan to run these as scheduled.

There may be rare occasions where it’s not possible for us to run an examination and it’s necessary for us to cancel. Should this occur, all affected candidates will be contacted with as much notice as possible. Any booking fees will be automatically refunded, and where possible, the opportunity to book an alternative date will be offered.

The GMC will not be responsible for any expenses (such as costs for visas, travel or accommodation) incurred by any candidates in such an event, and we’re unable to offer reimbursement or compensation.   

What if your eligibility to attempt PLAB runs out due to exceptional circumstances beyond your control?

Our eligibility periods allow candidates significant time and opportunity to attempt the exam.

However, we are aware that occasionally there are exceptional circumstances which impact a candidate’s ability to attempt the exam within these periods. These include things such as the outbreak of war, severe and ongoing health issues, challenges related to pregnancy/maternity, ongoing travel restrictions, and mandatory military service.

If any of these issues impact you, please contact us as soon as possible. We will then consider what support we can offer you, such as arranging for you to sit an earlier date or extending your eligibility period to attempt the exam.