How to Pass the PLAB Exam – A Guide for Ghanaian Doctors

Thinking about taking the PLAB exam to work as a doctor in the UK? You’re not alone! Every year, hundreds of Ghanaian doctors take this important step to secure better career opportunities abroad.

But how do you pass PLAB 1 & PLAB 2 on your first attempt? What resources should you use? How long should you prepare?

This practical, no-nonsense guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from eligibility requirements to study tips, recommended resources, and exam strategies to help you ace the PLAB!

What Is the PLAB Exam?

The Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) exam is a two-part test that international medical graduates (IMGs) must pass to practice medicine in the UK.

✅ PLAB 1 – A multiple-choice written exam (180 questions, 3 hours).
✅ PLAB 2 – A practical OSCE exam (real-life patient scenarios).

Once you pass both exams, you can register with the UK’s General Medical Council (GMC) and start working in the NHS (National Health Service).

Who Can Take the PLAB Exam?
You must:

Be a medical graduate from a recognized institution (e.g., KNUST, UGMS, UHAS).
Have taken IELTS or OET (to prove English proficiency).
Have at least 12 months of clinical experience (housemanship counts!).

PLAB is easier than USMLE, but it still requires serious preparation!

How Long Should You Prepare for PLAB?

Preparation time depends on your study habits and background knowledge.

⏳ PLAB 1: 3–6 months of focused study.
⏳ PLAB 2: 6–8 weeks of practice (after PLAB 1).

“I studied for 4 months, using only PLABable and PassMedicine, and I passed PLAB 1 with ease.” – Dr. Kofi, Ghanaian IMG in the UK.

Best Study Resources for PLAB 1

The PLAB 1 exam tests your clinical knowledge and decision-making—not book cramming!

✅ Top Recommended Resources

PLABable – The #1 question bank (just like the real exam).
PassMedicine PLAB 1 QBank – Excellent explanations.
Oxford Handbook of Clinical Medicine – Good for brushing up on guidelines.
NICE Guidelines & Geeky Medics – Helps with UK-based protocols.

Best Strategy? Focus on question banks (PLABable) instead of textbooks!

PLAB 1 Exam Tips (How to Pass on Your First Try!)

Study 3–4 hours per day consistently.
Do at least 3,000–5,000 practice questions from PLABable.
Read explanations carefully! Don’t just memorize answers.
Join a study group (Telegram/WhatsApp groups help!).
Simulate real exam conditions (time yourself during mocks).

PLAB 1 is high-yield and predictable, so practice is key!

How to Pass PLAB 2 – The OSCE Exam

PLAB 2 is a practical exam that tests your ability to communicate, diagnose, and manage real patients in a clinical setting.

20 patient scenarios (OSCE stations).
Tests communication skills, professionalism, and clinical decision-making.
Takes place in Manchester, UK.

Most candidates travel to the UK and take a PLAB 2 academy course.

✅ Best PLAB 2 Academies for Ghanaian Doctors

Swamy Academy – Affordable & highly rated.
Samson PLAB Academy – Excellent mock exams.
Dr. Khalid’s PLAB 2 Academy – Great for communication skills.
PLABVerse – Online OSCE practice sessions.

Best Strategy? Join an academy + practice daily with study partners.

How Much Does PLAB Cost? (Exam Fees + Budgeting)

PLAB 1: £255 (~GH₵4,500)
PLAB 2: £934 (~GH₵16,500)
GMC Registration: £420 (~GH₵7,400)
Visa & Travel to the UK: £2,000+ (~GH₵35,000)

Total estimated cost: £3,500–£5,000 (~GH₵60,000–GH₵80,000)

PLAB is cheaper than USMLE or AMC (Australia), making it a cost-effective route!

What Happens After You Pass PLAB?

✅ Apply for GMC Registration (General Medical Council).
✅ Start applying for NHS jobs (Junior Doctor positions).
✅ Secure a Tier 2 Work Visa (Sponsored by your NHS employer).
✅ Move to the UK and start your career!

Final Advice – Should You Take the PLAB Exam?

✅ PLAB is worth it if:

You want to work as a doctor in the UK.
You prefer a structured career path with postgraduate training.
You can afford the exam & relocation costs.

❌ PLAB might NOT be for you if:

You prefer specializing in Ghana before moving abroad.
You don’t want to work under the NHS system.
You’re not comfortable with relocating to a new country.

Are you preparing for PLAB? Drop your questions in the comments!

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