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STEP 1 OF 5 · INTERNATIONAL GRADUATES (PLAB)

PLAB and the UKMLA

Two doors, one standard.

  • ⏱ 3 min read
  • International graduates (PLAB)
  • Step 1 of 5
  • Reviewed 27 October 2026
UK medical schoolAKT+CPSAOverseas medical degreePLAB 1+PLAB 2GMC licencesame standard, two doors
UK graduates take the UKMLA; most overseas graduates currently take PLAB.
  • PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 are the GMC’s route for most overseas graduates today.
  • Their content is aligned with the UKMLA content map.
  • The GMC has said IMGs will in future sit the UKMLA AKT. Watch its announcements.

What this means for you

  • Keep following the GMC’s current PLAB guidance until it announces a change.
  • Do not rely on forums or agents for dates and fees. Use the GMC site.
  • Build your knowledge from the same content map UK students use.

Your checklist

  • Checked the GMC’s latest PLAB and UKMLA update

Fees, English-test scores and dates were last checked against official sources on 27 October 2026.

This page is general education, reviewed 27 October 2026. Rules, fees and dates change: always confirm with the official sources below. It is not medical, legal or immigration advice.