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Do I need to pass PLAB before MRCP?

TL;DR

You do not need to pass PLAB before sitting the MRCP exams. PLAB is required for international doctors who want GMC registration to practise medicine in the UK. MRCP Part 1, however, is a postgraduate qualification and can be taken overseas without PLAB, provided you meet eligibility requirements. In short: PLAB = licensing exam, MRCP = postgraduate membership exam.


Why this matters

Many international doctors are unsure whether PLAB is a prerequisite for MRCP Part 1. The confusion comes from the overlap between licensing (to practise in the UK) and postgraduate exams (to advance specialty training). Understanding the difference helps you avoid wasted effort and plan a clear pathway tailored to your goals.


PLAB vs MRCP: Key differences

Feature

PLAB

MRCP

Purpose

To prove eligibility for GMC registration

To demonstrate postgraduate-level knowledge for higher training

Eligibility

Primary medical qualification + English proficiency (IELTS/OET)

Primary medical qualification + 12 months’ clinical experience

Where it applies

Required for practising in the UK (if no exemption applies)

Recognised internationally for specialty training and career advancement

Exam style

PLAB 1 (written MCQ) + PLAB 2 (OSCE)

Part 1 & 2 (written), PACES (clinical)

Outcome

GMC registration to work in the UK

MRCP(UK) Membership, progression to specialty training

References: GMC PLAB Guidance, MRCP(UK) Eligibility

Step-by-step: Do you need PLAB before MRCP?

  1. If your goal is to practise in the UK immediately after MBBS/internship → you need PLAB for GMC registration.

  2. If you already have GMC-recognised qualifications or sponsorship (e.g. MTI, sponsorship schemes) → you may bypass PLAB and proceed directly to MRCP.

  3. If you only want MRCP for career progression in your home country → PLAB is unnecessary.

  4. If your aim is UK specialty training → you’ll need MRCP for higher training, but PLAB may still be required for initial registration.

  5. Always check the GMC’s list of acceptable overseas qualifications before

    making your decision (GMC Overseas Applications).


    Flowchart showing when PLAB is required before MRCP.

Practical examples

  • Case 1: Dr A (India) finishes internship and wants to start work in the NHS. He must clear PLAB to register with the GMC, then later attempt MRCP Part 1.

  • Case 2: Dr B (Nigeria) is already a registrar in internal medicine and wants MRCP for recognition and promotion at home. She can attempt MRCP Part 1 abroad without PLAB.

  • Case 3: Dr C (Pakistan) secures an NHS trust-sponsored post. With sponsorship, he can register with the GMC without PLAB, and then progress to MRCP Part 1.


Common pitfalls (and fixes)

  • Confusing licensing with postgraduate exams → Fix: Separate “entry to practise” (PLAB) from “career advancement” (MRCP).

  • Not checking GMC eligibility early → Fix: Use the GMC website before booking exams.

  • Taking MRCP too soon → Fix: Ensure at least 12 months’ clinical experience before applying.

  • Ignoring local career goals → Fix: Decide whether MRCP is for UK training or home-country advancement.

  • Trying to prepare for PLAB and MRCP simultaneously → Fix: Sequence them: PLAB → GMC registration → MRCP, unless MRCP alone suffices for your path.


FAQs

1. Can I take MRCP Part 1 without PLAB?

Yes. PLAB is not required for MRCP Part 1. You only need a recognised medical degree and 12 months of clinical experience.

2. Which is harder: PLAB or MRCP?

PLAB is an entry-level licensing exam; MRCP is postgraduate-level and much more advanced. They test different skill sets.

3. Do I need PLAB if I only want MRCP for my home country?

No. PLAB is only needed if you want GMC registration to practise in the UK.

4. Does PLAB count towards MRCP?

No. PLAB grants registration; MRCP is a separate qualification needed for higher training.

5. Where can I start MRCP preparation?

Try our Free MRCP MCQs or Start a mock test to benchmark your readiness.


Ready to start?

In summary: You don’t need PLAB before MRCP unless you want to practise in the UK straight after graduation. MRCP is a postgraduate qualification; PLAB is a licensing route.

👉 Learn more with our MRCP Part 1 overview, practise with Free MRCP MCQs, or Start a mock test to measure your progress.


Sources

  • GMC: PLAB route

  • GMC: Overseas doctor eligibility

  • MRCP(UK): Part 1 eligibility

 
 
 

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