Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board Part 1
Administered by General Medical Council (GMC)
The first of two exams required for international medical graduates to practise medicine in the UK. PLAB 1 tests your ability to apply medical knowledge to clinical scenarios common in the NHS.
Quick Facts
Format
180 single best answer (SBA) multiple-choice questions
Duration
3 hours
Passing Score
Approximately 62% (varies by sitting)
Valid For
3 years from the date you pass (to complete PLAB 2)
Cost
GBP 273
Cost in Naira
Approximately N530,000
Test Centres in Nigeria
- British Council Lagos (Victoria Island)
- British Council Abuja
What is Tested
Clinical Medicine
Questions covering diagnosis, investigation, and management of common medical conditions seen in UK general practice and hospitals.
How to Register
- 1
Create a GMC Online account at gmc-uk.org.
- 2
Apply for PLAB 1 through your GMC Online account.
- 3
Submit your primary medical qualification documents for verification.
- 4
Pay the GBP 273 exam fee online.
- 5
Select your preferred test centre (Lagos or Abuja) and available date.
- 6
Receive your confirmation email with exam details.
- 7
Arrive at the British Council centre on exam day with valid ID.
Tips for Nigerian Candidates
Book your exam date at least 3 months in advance as Lagos and Abuja slots fill up fast.
The British Council Lagos centre is on Victoria Island. Plan for traffic, especially if coming from the mainland.
Bring your international passport (not a national ID) as identification.
PLAB 1 sittings in Nigeria typically happen 3 to 4 times per year. Check the GMC website for exact dates.
Join the 'PLAB Nigeria' groups on Telegram and WhatsApp for peer support and exam date updates.
Consider writing in Abuja if you find Lagos dates fully booked.
Your MDCN registration certificate and medical school transcript will be needed for GMC verification.
Preparation Tips
Start with a strong foundation in clinical medicine, especially UK guidelines (NICE).
Use the Oxford Handbook of Clinical Medicine as your primary reference.
Practise at least 3,000 SBA questions before sitting the exam.
Focus on emergency management, common presentations, and patient safety.
Study UK-specific guidelines, especially for prescribing and referral pathways.
Join study groups with other Nigerian doctors preparing for PLAB.
Allow 3 to 6 months of dedicated preparation if working full-time.
Recommended Resources
Cost Breakdown
Exam Fee
GBP 273
In Naira
Approximately N530,000
Who Needs This Exam
International medical graduates (IMGs) who want to practise as doctors in the United Kingdom
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Exam fees, visa costs, and requirements change frequently. The information on this page was last reviewed in April 2026. Always confirm fees and requirements directly with the official body before making payments or decisions.
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