PLAB 1

PLAB 1 exam and result dates

Four sittings a year. Results are published six weeks after the exam.

Next sitting5 November 2026
Its results17 December 2026
Then11 February 2027
Its results25 March 2027

Dates the GMC has published

ExamResults
6 August 202617 September 2026
5 November 202617 December 2026
11 February 202725 March 2027

After you pass

You can book PLAB 2 once your result is out, and you must pass PLAB 2 within two years of the date you sat PLAB 1.

Try 3 questions

Question 1MLA content map: Phobias (including agoraphobia)
A 46-year-old man has stopped using buses and trains and avoids supermarkets and cinemas. In these places he becomes intensely anxious, fearing he will be unable to get out or get help, and he now only leaves home with his wife. He has no fear of social judgement and no low mood. Physical examination is normal. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Question 2MLA content map: Vitamin B12 and/or folate deficiency
A 63-year-old man has 2 months of tiredness and tingling in both feet. Haemoglobin is 88 g/L, MCV 118 fL, vitamin B12 is low and serum folate is also low. He has no heart failure symptoms and is haemodynamically stable. What is the most appropriate initial treatment?
Question 3MLA content map: Breast cancer
A 34-year-old woman has noticed a lump in her left breast for 3 weeks. It is not painful and has not changed with her period. There is a 2 cm firm, irregular lump in the upper outer quadrant, with no skin change or nipple discharge. Axillary examination is normal. She has no family history of breast cancer. What is the most appropriate management?

Next step

The GMC's PLAB 1 guide

Questions people ask

When are PLAB 1 results out?

Six weeks after the exam, in GMC Online, by 4pm on the result date.

When does registration close?

Between two and six weeks before the test date, depending on the venue.