Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board Part 2
Administered by General Medical Council (GMC)
The clinical skills assessment for UK medical registration. PLAB 2 is an OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) that tests your ability to communicate with patients, examine, diagnose, and manage clinical scenarios in a simulated NHS environment.
Quick Facts
Format
Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) with 16 stations
Duration
Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes (16 stations at 8 minutes each, plus changeover time)
Passing Score
Minimum competency standard set by the GMC each sitting
Valid For
You must apply for GMC registration within 2 years of passing PLAB 2
Cost
GBP 998
Cost in Naira
Approximately N1,940,000
What is Tested
History Taking Stations
Take a focused clinical history from a simulated patient, identify key problems, and formulate a management plan.
Examination Stations
Perform focused clinical examinations on manikins or simulated patients and interpret findings.
Communication Stations
Explain diagnoses, procedures, or results to patients. May include breaking bad news or discussing sensitive topics.
Practical Skills Stations
Demonstrate clinical procedures such as suturing, IV cannulation, catheterisation, or basic life support.
How to Register
- 1
Pass PLAB 1 first (result valid for 3 years).
- 2
Log into your GMC Online account and apply for PLAB 2.
- 3
Pay the GBP 998 exam fee.
- 4
Select an available date at the GMC Assessment Centre in Manchester.
- 5
Apply for a UK Standard Visitor visa (you need a confirmed PLAB 2 booking for this).
- 6
Travel to Manchester and attend the exam at the GMC Assessment Centre.
- 7
Results are typically available within 10 working days.
Tips for Nigerian Candidates
PLAB 2 can ONLY be taken in Manchester, UK. You must travel.
Apply for a UK Standard Visitor visa early. State clearly that you are attending a professional exam.
Budget GBP 2,500 to 4,000 total for flights, accommodation, visa, and the exam fee.
Many Nigerian doctors stay in Manchester for 2 to 4 weeks before the exam to attend prep academies.
Join the Telegram group 'PLAB 2 Nigerians' for accommodation tips and study partners in Manchester.
Book your exam at least 4 to 6 months in advance. Popular dates sell out fast.
Consider combining your trip with PLAB 2 academy attendance for structured OSCE practice.
Preparation Tips
Practise with OSCE partners regularly. Communication skills are heavily weighted.
Learn the structured approach: introduce yourself, confirm patient identity, explain, check understanding.
Master UK consent and safeguarding protocols.
Practise time management strictly. You have exactly 8 minutes per station.
Study common OSCE scenarios from resources like Samson's PLAB 2 book.
Book a spot at a PLAB 2 academy in Manchester for structured practice.
Watch YouTube OSCE demonstrations for station flow and examiner expectations.
Recommended Resources
Cost Breakdown
Exam Fee
GBP 998
In Naira
Approximately N1,940,000
Travel required. This exam cannot be taken in Nigeria. Budget additional funds for flights, accommodation, visa, and living expenses.
Who Needs This Exam
International medical graduates who have passed PLAB 1 and want to complete their GMC registration
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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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