Get ready to book a PLAB 1 place
Eligibility requirements to book PLAB 1
You’ll need an acceptable overseas primary medical qualification. If you haven’t graduated yet, we will need confirmation you have passed your final examinations and have met all other requirements to be eligible for the qualification.
You’ll also need to demonstrate you have the necessary knowledge of English by providing your English language evidence to us:
- If you've taken the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) test or the Occupational English Test (OET), you can submit this to us in the 'My Tests' section in GMC Online. We will verify these with the relevant testing organisation and we aim to do this within two working days. Once verified, you'll be able to book a test.
- Because not all countries are currently holding in-person English language exams, we’ll accept the online IELTS indicator test as an additional option when booking your PLAB 1 test. Indicator tests are accepted for PLAB 1 only and won't be accepted as evidence when applying for registration.
- You can also use the OET@Home service to demonstrate English language proficiency for both PLAB and registration.
- Our Influences on pass rates in PLAB examinations 2022 report shows that candidates who have passed IELTS or OET have more chance of passing PLAB 1 at the first attempt than those who have not. We, therefore, recommend you strongly consider taking IELTS or OET, even if you are able to provide alternative English language evidence.
Once you have the above information you can set up a GMC Online account to book or cancel a place. You can view available dates and book under the 'My Tests' section. If you have a GMC reference number but have not logged in to GMC Online since August 2021, you will need to update your account.
How much does it cost?
Please visit our Fees page for price listings. You can view these on the PLAB fees tab.
Are there any concessions for refugees?
If you are a refugee doctor living in the UK, the fee for PLAB 1 will be free of charge for your first two attempts. Please book the exam online and contact us to arrange a refund.
If you are having trouble booking a test date, please email the PLAB team for help.
Read our information for refugee doctors living in the UK.
Can I book a PLAB place through anyone else other than the GMC?
No. Candidates can only book a PLAB place through their GMC Online account, and only the account holder must access the account.
Candidates must not share their information with any third party or attempt to book a place anywhere other than through GMC Online.
Sharing your account details with any third party is misconduct and may impact your PLAB booking or any future registration application. Doing so can also put your personal, financial and other online account information at risk.
