💬 My Honest Advice on PLAB — The Reality in 2025
If you're considering the PLAB route to work as a doctor in the UK, here’s the truth you need to hear:
📊 The Competition is Real
According to GMC data (2023–24):
Over 15,000 doctors passed PLAB and received GMC registration.
However, only about 55–60% of international medical graduates (IMGs) secured NHS jobs within the first 6 months.
Some are waiting for over a year, despite holding full GMC registration.
This is largely due to:
Increased competition (huge rise in IMG applicants).
Fewer non-training posts being advertised.
Preference often given to UK graduates or doctors with NHS experience.
✅ When is PLAB Worth It?
PLAB is a valid and practical route if:
You’re a fresh graduate with strong English skills.
You’re committed to starting from the bottom and building up.
You can financially support yourself for 6–12 months post-registration (without guaranteed income).
⚠️ When to Consider Other Options
If you're already a doctor with postgrad experience or a specialist abroad, consider membership exams like MRCP, MRCS, MRCPCH, etc.
They’re globally recognised.
They strengthen your chances of getting higher-level jobs in the UK and abroad.
They can be used for direct GMC registration (without PLAB) if combined with evidence of training (or via CESR eventually).
🛑 Avoid These Common Mistakes
Taking a long clinical gap while preparing for PLAB or UK exams.
It looks bad on your CV — especially in early years of your career.
Always stay clinically active, even part-time or unpaid.
Not preparing your CV for UK standards.
Focus on NHS values: audits, QIPs, teaching experience, leadership roles, team collaboration, and communication.
NHS employers look for more than just qualifications.
Relying solely on PLAB without researching job prospects.
Visit www.jobs.nhs.uk or www.trac.jobs regularly.
Look at person specifications and tailor your portfolio accordingly.
🔑 Final Advice
✔ Keep your options open.
✔ Don’t stop clinical work.
✔ Build a portfolio aligned with UK expectations.
✔ Understand that PLAB is an entry pass, not a guarantee of employment.
✔ If you're well into your career, membership exams or routes like MTI or CESR may suit you better.