PLAB Exam Fees 2025: Costs, Payment Methods & Refund Policies

The PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) exam is a crucial test for international medical graduates (IMGs) who wish to practice medicine in the UK. It assesses whether doctors trained outside the UK have the necessary knowledge and skills to work safely in the National Health Service (NHS).

The PLAB exam is essential for IMGs who do not hold a recognized medical qualification from the UK, European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland. Passing this exam allows candidates to apply for registration with a license to practice in the UK.

Anyone who has completed a primary medical qualification from a medical school recognized by the General Medical Council (GMC) and does not have automatic recognition in the UK must take the PLAB exam. 

The PLAB exam consists of two parts:

• PLAB 1 – A multiple-choice exam with 180 questions, lasting 3 hours, that tests medical knowledge and understanding.
• PLAB 2 – A practical Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), lasting around 3 hours and 10 minutes, that assesses clinical and communication skills.

The PLAB exam fees vary depending on the test stage, with separate charges for PLAB 1 and PLAB 2.

Scroll down to understand the PLAB exam 2025 in detail—including its fees, eligibility, syllabus, and other key details!

Also Read: PLAB Exam Eligibility

PLAB Exam Fees 2025

The PLAB exam fees vary for each part of the test and are subject to periodic updates by the General Medical Council (GMC). Candidates must pay separate fees for PLAB 1 and PLAB 2, along with additional charges for cancellations and rescheduling.

Exam Fees for PLAB 1 & PLAB 2 (Effective from April 1, 2025):

Note: The fees mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the currency exchange rates.

Also Read: PLAB Exam Dates

Refund Policies and Procedures for PLAB Exam Cancellations or Rescheduling

If you need to cancel or change your PLAB exam date, it's important to understand the refund rules and the applicable charges. The PLAB exam fees vary depending on when you cancel, and certain deductions will apply.

The GMC does not allow exam dates to be rescheduled. If you need to change your exam date, you must cancel your existing booking and rebook a new slot, subject to availability.

PLAB 1 Refund Policy:

• More than 42 days before the exam – You will receive a 90% refund, with a 10% deduction.
• 42 days or less before the exam – No refund is provided, and the full PLAB 1 exam fee will be charged.

PLAB 2 Refund Policy:

• More than 42 days before the exam – You will get a 90% refund, with a 10% deduction.
• Between 42 and 29 days before the exam – A 50% refund is given, and the remaining 50% is deducted.
• 28 days or less before the exam – No refund is provided, and the full PLAB 2 exam fee will be charged.

Here is the detailed breakdown of the PLAB Exam Cancellation Fees:

Note: The fees mentioned in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the currency exchange rates.

Candidates should always check the GMC website for the latest fee updates before booking their exam.

Related Article: PLAB Exam Preparation

Payment Methods Accepted for PLAB Exam Fees

Paying for the PLAB exam is straightforward, and multiple payment options are available to suit different candidates. The General Medical Council (GMC) accepts both online and offline payment methods for PLAB exam fees.

1. Online Payment Options

Candidates can conveniently pay through:

• Credit or Debit Cards – Visa, MasterCard, and Maestro are accepted. Payments can be made via GMC Online or by contacting GMC directly.
• Internet Banking & Bank Transfers – Candidates can transfer the fee directly to the GMC’s bank account. The bank details are available on GMC Online or the printed fee bill.

2. Offline Payment Options

For candidates who prefer traditional payment methods, the GMC accepts offline payments through the following options:

• Cheques, Bank Drafts, and Postal Orders: Payments must be made payable to the General Medical Council (GMC).
• Mandatory Details: Candidates must write their full name and GMC reference number on the back of the cheque, bank draft, or postal order.
• Currency Requirement: Only UK bank drafts in pounds sterling are accepted.
• Restrictions: Post-dated cheques are not accepted under any circumstances.

After successful payment, candidates will receive:

• An email confirmation from GMC with payment details.
• A receipt in their GMC Online account for reference.
• Exam slot confirmation for PLAB 1 or PLAB 2 (if available).

Candidates should check their GMC Online account to ensure the payment has been processed successfully.

Also Read: List of Countries Accepting PLAB

How to Save Money on PLAB Exam Fees?

The PLAB exam can be expensive, but with careful planning, you can reduce costs. By making smart financial decisions, you can avoid unnecessary expenses and manage your budget effectively. 

Here are some tips to help you save money on PLAB exam fees:

• Book Early – Register for the exam as soon as possible to avoid last-minute price hikes or additional rescheduling fees.
• Prepare Well – Study thoroughly to pass on the first attempt and avoid paying again for a retake.
• Check Refund Policies – Be aware of GMC’s refund policy to minimize financial loss if you need to cancel or reschedule.
• Use Affordable Study Materials – Instead of expensive coaching, consider free or low-cost online resources, mock tests, and study groups.
• Plan Your Visa & Travel Smartly – Apply for your visa early and look for budget-friendly travel and accommodation options for PLAB 2 in the UK.
• Look for Financial Assistance – Check if your country’s government or medical organizations offer scholarships or sponsorships for the PLAB exam.
• Avoid Payment Issues – Ensure your payment method is valid and supports international transactions to prevent failed payments and booking delays.
• Consider Group Study – Joining a study group can help you share resources and cut down on individual expenses for study materials.

By following these steps, you can manage your finances better and reduce the overall cost of taking the PLAB exam.

Conclusion

The PLAB exam is a significant milestone for international medical graduates aiming to practice and study in the UK. Proper planning and understanding of the PLAB exam fee, payment options, and refund policies can help candidates avoid unnecessary complications. Since rescheduling is not allowed, careful selection of exam dates is crucial. 

Additionally, being aware of cancellation fees and accepted payment methods ensures a smooth process.

By staying informed and managing their bookings through GMC Online, candidates can confidently navigate the PLAB journey and take a step closer to their medical careers in the UK.

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