- Register Early. As soon as you pass your exam, book your PLAB 2 slot. Demand for PLAB 2 is high and spaces are limited. By registering in advance, you can tailor your study to the exam schedule and reduce the likelihood of missing out on your preferred time slot.
- Start revising early. Usually, 6-8 weeks of intense preparation is needed to pass the PLAB 2 exam. Although some pass with less preparation time, don’t risk it. We recommend starting as early as possible on practising, polishing your communication skills and reviewing common clinical and ethical scenarios as many times as possible.
- Check the regulations. Available at https://www.gmc-uk.org/registration-and-licensing/join-the-register/plab/plab-2-guide/what-can-you-expect-on-the-day
- Don’t forget to bring your identity card. GMC accepts any of the following; Passport, UK driving licence or EU identity card. If your name on your identification is different from that on the booking confirmation from the GMC, you must bring original evidence that you are the person named in that letter. GMC will accept; marriage certificate a declaration from the awarding body which granted your primary medical qualification, stating that both names relate to you.
- Plan your route. Either book a taxi for the morning of the exam or plan ahead very early – particularly if you have to get to the exam venue in rush hour.
- Come to manchester early. Come to Manchester at least 2 nights before. When you spend the night in an unfamiliar location, your sleep pattern may be disturbed. Allow yourself at least one additional night to adjust.
- Be prepared. Bring at least two sets of exam clothes and shoes. Disaster might happen.
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meal before the exam. Don’t try to treat your stress with alcohol or heavy meal and snacks.
- Go to bed early the night before. Even if you cannot sleep, stay in bed and try to relax. You have done your best. At this point, a good night’s sleep will be more beneficial than cramming a few facts in a hurry.
- Avoid too much caffeine on exam day. Caffeine is not a magic pill. If you get excess caffeine in an already stressful situation, this may exacerbate your nervousness. The last thing you’d want, appearing nervous in front of your patient.
- Dress conservatively. For males, a shirt and trousers (make sure it is ironed), bare below the elbow, meaning no watches or excessive pieces of jewellery. And no ties. Simple professional-looking shoes. For females, be modest, even though simple earrings and wedding rings are okay, long necklaces, and excessive pieces of jewellery will make you look unprofessional and may present possible hazards for patients and yourself. Do not wear anything too likely to alarm your grandmother.
- Arrive early. Get to your exam venue at least an hour before your exam start time.
- Do not bring books, google glasses or smart watches.
- Chat to other candidates. Once you’re in the exam centre you will still have a large amount of time before being called to start. This will be a lot less painful if you can take your mind off things by chatting with the other candidates than if you sit ruminating on everything that can go wrong. You will be offered tea and coffee, and some snacks. Try not to drink too much tea or coffee.
- Plan a treat for yourself after your exam. This is the last exam you will have to sit before being fully registered with the GMC. You have come so far. You should award yourself whatever the result is.
