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MRCP vs PLAB: Which is more difficult?

TL;DR

When comparing MRCP vs PLAB: which is more difficult, PLAB is usually considered easier because it only assesses whether international graduates are safe to practise at an FY2 level in the UK. MRCP, by contrast, is a postgraduate specialty exam testing higher-level clinical reasoning and knowledge across internal medicine. In short: PLAB is a licensing test for entry, while MRCP is an advanced qualification that is far more challenging academically and clinically.


Why this matters

International medical graduates (IMGs) often face a major decision: should they attempt PLAB to register with the General Medical Council (GMC) and begin training in the UK, or pursue MRCP (UK) directly to advance in internal medicine? Both exams open doors, but they serve different purposes, require different levels of preparation, and are recognised differently worldwide. Knowing which one aligns with your career goals—and which is more difficult—can save years of effort.


Overview of MRCP and PLAB


  • PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board test): Conducted by the GMC, PLAB ensures international graduates meet the knowledge and skills equivalent to a UK FY2 doctor before joining the medical register.

  • MRCP (Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians of the UK): Run by the Federation of the Royal Colleges of Physicians, MRCP is a postgraduate qualification that demonstrates advanced knowledge and clinical acumen. It is essential for progressing into specialty training in internal medicine.

👉 Key difference: PLAB is an entry-level licensing exam; MRCP is a postgraduate specialty qualification.


Eligibility

  • PLAB: Requires a recognised primary medical qualification and proof of English proficiency (IELTS or OET). See GMC eligibility criteria.

  • MRCP Part 1: Requires at least 12 months of postgraduate experience after graduation. Full details on MRCP(UK) eligibility.


Exam Structure

Aspect

PLAB

MRCP

Parts

PLAB 1 (MCQ, 180 SBAs); PLAB 2 (OSCE)

Part 1 (MCQ), Part 2 Written (MCQ), PACES (clinical)

Focus

Applied clinical knowledge & safe practice

Deep reasoning, advanced medicine, bedside skills

Duration

PLAB 1: 3 hours; PLAB 2: OSCE format

Part 1: 2×3 hrs; Part 2 Written: 2×3 hrs; PACES: 5 stations

Level Tested

Equivalent to UK FY2

Postgraduate (Core Medical Training/IMT level)

Cost and Time

  • PLAB: Cheaper and faster. PLAB 1 (£255) and PLAB 2 (£993), total ~£1,200. Most IMGs prepare in 6–9 months. GMC PLAB fees.

  • MRCP: More expensive and time-intensive. Part 1 (£616), Part 2 (£616), PACES (£1,202), total ~£2,400+. Preparation often takes 1–2 years. MRCP(UK) fees.


Recognition

  • PLAB: Recognised only in the UK, and solely for GMC registration.

  • MRCP: Recognised internationally (UK, Middle East, Asia, Africa) as a postgraduate qualification in internal medicine.


Which is more difficult?

  • PLAB: Tests safe practice at a junior doctor level. With focused prep, many candidates clear it within 1–2 attempts.

  • MRCP: Significantly harder, with pass rates much lower (often 40–50%). PACES especially is challenging, requiring refined bedside skills. Preparation is deeper and longer.

👉 Summary: PLAB is easier and faster; MRCP is academically and clinically much more demanding.


Doctor comparison symbolising PLAB as entry exam and MRCP as postgraduate exam.

Who should take which?

  • PLAB is best for:

    • IMGs seeking UK GMC registration quickly.

    • Junior doctors without much postgraduate experience.

  • MRCP is best for:

    • Doctors pursuing careers in internal medicine or subspecialties.

    • Candidates wanting international recognition beyond the UK.


Practical examples

  • Example 1: An MBBS graduate in India aiming to enter UK core training → Take PLAB first.

  • Example 2: A doctor with 3 years of internal medicine experience aiming to apply for medical registrar posts → Take MRCP.


Common pitfalls

  • Believing MRCP exempts you from PLAB automatically (check GMC rules first).

  • Attempting MRCP too early without postgraduate experience.

  • Underestimating PLAB 2’s OSCE-based format.

  • Ignoring English language requirements (IELTS/OET).

  • Not budgeting—MRCP costs more than double PLAB.


FAQs

1. Do I need PLAB if I have MRCP?

Not always. GMC allows some doctors with MRCP to bypass PLAB, but you must meet GMC’s full criteria for registration.

2. Which exam is recognised internationally?

MRCP. PLAB is UK-only and cannot be used abroad.

3. How long should I prepare?

PLAB usually requires 6–9 months. MRCP takes 1–2 years due to its complexity.

4. Which costs more?

MRCP (~£2,400+) is significantly more expensive than PLAB (~£1,200).

5. Can I sit MRCP directly after MBBS?

No. You need at least 12 months of postgraduate experience before attempting MRCP Part 1.


Ready to start?

Both exams serve different purposes: PLAB for licensing, MRCP for specialisation. If you’re early in your career, PLAB is the gateway. If you’re pursuing internal medicine, MRCP is essential.

👉 Begin with our MRCP Part 1 overview, practise with Free MRCP MCQs, and Start a mock test to track your progress.


Sources

  • GMC – PLAB overview

  • MRCP(UK) official examinations page

  • GMC – Knowledge of English requirements

 
 
 

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