PLAB Registration in Nigeria

The Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) test is essential for medical professionals seeking to practice in the United Kingdom. Overseen by the General Medical Council (GMC), the PLAB exam is designed to assess a candidate’s ability to work as a doctor in the UK. Below is comprehensive information on the PLAB registration process in Nigeria, including costs, requirements, and preparation tips.

Cost of PLAB Registration for International Applicants

The PLAB exam consists of two parts, with separate registration fees for each:

• PLAB 1: £270
• PLAB 2: £990

These fees are subject to change, and it is advised to check the GMC website for the latest fee structure before registering. PLAB 1 is taken in Nigeria, while PLAB 2 must be completed in the UK.

Format, Structure, and Timing for PLAB Exam

The PLAB exam is divided into two parts:

1. PLAB 1: A written exam with 180 multiple-choice questions that must be completed in 3 hours. It focuses on clinical problem-solving and is aimed at determining whether candidates have the medical knowledge needed for working as a junior doctor in the UK.
2. PLAB 2: A practical, Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) consisting of 18 clinical scenarios, each lasting about 8 minutes. This part tests clinical skills, diagnosis, and patient interaction abilities.

PLAB 1 is held several times a year in various international locations, while PLAB 2 is conducted in the UK.

Do You Need to Register First or Receive Training and Then Register for PLAB Exam?

No prior training is mandatory to register for the PLAB exam. However, preparation is essential, especially for candidates who may be unfamiliar with UK medical standards. Many candidates choose to complete preparatory courses, particularly for PLAB 2. Candidates must register and create an account with the GMC before registering for either part of the exam.

Acceptable ID Requirements for PLAB Exam

Candidates are required to present valid identification on exam day. Acceptable forms of ID include:

• Passport (most recommended)
• National ID (in specific cases, as accepted by GMC policies)

The name on the ID must match the name provided during registration. It’s essential that the ID is unexpired on the test date.

Rescheduling Policy for PLAB Exam

The GMC allows rescheduling for the PLAB 1 exam, provided the request is made before the exam registration deadline. However, rescheduling policies and applicable fees vary based on the timing of the request. For more information, refer to your GMC account and specific test dates.

Late Registration Fee for PLAB Exam

There is generally no late registration option for PLAB exams; deadlines are strictly enforced. Candidates are encouraged to register as early as possible to secure their preferred test date and avoid last-minute issues.

Preparation for PLAB Exam

The PLAB exam requires thorough preparation, particularly for the practical elements in PLAB 2. Common preparation methods include:

• GMC Official Resources: The GMC website offers free guidance, sample questions, and recommended study materials.
• PLAB Preparation Courses: Many institutions offer courses and practice exams tailored to PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 content.
• Self-Study: Utilize online study resources, practice exams, and textbooks focused on UK clinical practices.
• Mock Exams: Completing mock exams under timed conditions is highly beneficial, especially for PLAB 2’s OSCE format.

Approved Test Centers for PLAB Exam in Nigeria

PLAB 1 can be taken in various approved locations in Nigeria, including major cities like Lagos and Abuja. However, PLAB 2 must be taken in the UK, as it is only administered in specific centers within the UK. For Nigerian-based centers, check the GMC website for a list of approved locations and the latest scheduling information.

What Items to Bring to PLAB Centers

On the day of the exam, you should bring:

• A valid, government-issued photo ID (passport or national ID)
• Your PLAB registration confirmation
• Necessary stationery (as permitted by the test center for PLAB 1)

Electronic devices, bags, and study materials are not allowed in the examination room. Be prepared to leave personal belongings in designated areas if lockers are provided.

How to Confirm Your PLAB Registration Status

Once registered, you can confirm your exam status by logging into your GMC account. Here, you can view your registration details, test date, and location. Ensure that you receive a confirmation email after completing the registration process. If you encounter any issues, contact the GMC directly to verify your registration status.

Sample of PLAB Questions

To get a feel for the PLAB exam, here are sample questions representing the type and style you may encounter:

• PLAB 1 Sample:

  • Question: A 65-year-old man presents with chest pain radiating to his left arm and jaw. What is the most appropriate initial investigation?
    • Options: (A) ECG, (B) Chest X-ray, (C) Blood Culture, (D) MRI

• PLAB 2 Sample (OSCE):

  • Scenario: A patient with diabetes arrives in the clinic, reporting dizziness and confusion. You are expected to take a history, conduct a brief physical examination, and provide an immediate management plan.

Practicing these types of questions and familiarizing yourself with the exam format can help improve your performance on test day.