UKMLA vs PLAB: Key Differences and How to Prepare for Each

If you’re planning to practise medicine in the UK, you’ll need to pass a licensing exam to gain GMC registration. For UK medical students, this is now the UK Medical Licensing Assessment (UKMLA), while international medical graduates (IMGs) have traditionally taken the PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) exam.

However, the UKMLA will eventually replace the PLAB for IMGs as well. Understanding the differences between the two exams and how to prepare effectively is essential for success.

What Is the UKMLA?

The UKMLA is a national licensing exam designed by the General Medical Council (GMC) to ensure all medical graduates meet the same clinical and professional standards.

Who takes it?

UK medical students
IMGs (from 2024 onwards)

Exam format:

Applied Knowledge Test (AKT): A computer-based exam with Single Best Answer (SBA) questions
Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA): A practical exam similar to an OSCE

Content:

Aligned with the GMC UKMLA content map covering core clinical conditions, presentations, ethics, and professionalism.

What Is the PLAB?

The PLAB exam has been the standard pathway for IMGs to demonstrate their medical knowledge and skills before working in the NHS.

Who takes it?

International medical graduates who trained outside the UK or EEA

Exam format:

PLAB 1: A written exam with 180 SBA questions
PLAB 2: A practical OSCE-style exam with 16 stations testing clinical and communication skills

Content:

Based on UK clinical practice guidelines and scenarios relevant to an FY1 doctor.

Key Differences Between UKMLA and PLAB

Audience: UKMLA is for both UK graduates and IMGs, while PLAB is only for IMGs
Content map: UKMLA uses a standardised GMC content map, while PLAB is based on PLAB blueprints
Exam structure: UKMLA AKT has fewer questions per sitting than PLAB 1, but focuses more on applied reasoning
Timeline: UKMLA integrates with UK medical school finals, whereas PLAB is a separate process

How to Prepare for UKMLA and PLAB

Utilise structured question banks: Platforms like Quesmed offer thousands of UKMLA and PLAB SBA questions, accompanied by detailed explanations
Practise OSCE/CPSA scenarios: Video demonstrations and interactive mock stations help build confidence for practical exams
Review national guidelines: Familiarise yourself with NICE and GMC guidelines, as they are frequently tested
Simulate exam conditions: Take timed mock tests to improve your speed and accuracy
Track progress: Utilise analytics to identify weaker areas and reinforce challenging topics

Conclusion

While the UKMLA and PLAB share similar goals, the UKMLA is a more standardised exam that integrates directly with UK medical education. Both require thorough preparation with high-quality resources and structured revision plans.

Quesmed offers tailored question banks, mock exams, and practical station resources designed to help you succeed in either pathway. Start your preparation today to take the next step in your medical career.

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