PLAB Exam Pathway for UK Practice After NEXT

Introduction: 

Have you ever wondered if clearing NEXT will open doors beyond India? With thousands of Indian medical graduates considering the UK for their careers, the PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) Exam remains one of the most trusted routes.

But here’s the catch—many students are confused about how NEXT fits in with PLAB eligibility. Does passing NEXT alone help? Do you still need IELTS or OET? And what exactly is the full UK pathway after PLAB?

This blog will provide a clear roadmap for Indian doctors who want to practice in the UK after completing NEXT. From eligibility and exam structure to preparation strategies and career opportunities, you’ll find practical, step-by-step guidance here.

Understanding the NEXT Exam and Its Role

The National Exit Test (NEXT) is set to replace NEET-PG and FMGE in India. It serves three purposes:

1. Licensing exam for Indian medical graduates.
2. Qualifying exam for PG admissions in India.
3. Screening test equivalent for foreign medical graduates.

But does NEXT directly impact your UK journey? Not really. For the UK, General Medical Council (GMC) registration still depends on PLAB (unless you already qualify through other routes like MRCP). However:

• NEXT ensures your MBBS degree is valid and recognized in India.
• Without passing NEXT, you can’t get permanent registration with NMC India, which is often required for migration-related documentation.

So, while NEXT itself isn’t a GMC requirement, it strengthens your eligibility and documentation process.

What is PLAB and Who Needs It?

The PLAB Exam is conducted by the GMC to assess whether an international medical graduate (IMG) has the necessary knowledge and skills to practice safely in the UK.

You must take PLAB if:

• You earned your MBBS degree outside the UK, EEA, or Switzerland.
• You don’t already have a recognized postgraduate qualification such as MRCP or USMLE Step 3.

PLAB Eligibility Criteria After NEXT

To appear for PLAB after completing your Indian MBBS:

• Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ): An MBBS degree recognized by NMC India.
• NEXT Passing Certificate: Ensures licensure in your home country.
• English Proficiency Test: IELTS Academic (7.5 overall, 7.0 in each section) or OET Medicine (Grade B in all modules).
• Internship Completion: A valid internship completion certificate.

PLAB Exam Structure: Step-by-Step

The PLAB exam has two parts:

PLAB 1: Knowledge Assessment

• Format: 180 multiple-choice questions
• Duration: 3 hours
• Focus: Clinical scenarios testing your ability to apply knowledge
• Frequency: Conducted four times a year in India and worldwide

PLAB 2: Skills Assessment

• Format: OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination)
• Scenarios: 16 stations involving real-life patient cases
• Location: Only conducted in the UK (Manchester)
• Focus: Communication, ethical decision-making, and clinical skills

Once you clear both stages, you can apply for GMC registration.

Pathway to UK Practice After NEXT

Here’s the streamlined pathway Indian doctors should follow:

1. Clear NEXT → Secure license in India.
2. English Test → IELTS/OET for GMC eligibility.
3. PLAB 1 → Attempt in India or abroad.
4. PLAB 2 → Travel to the UK for the OSCE exam.
5. GMC Registration → Apply after clearing PLAB 2.
6. Job Applications → Apply for NHS jobs or residency posts.
7. Visa & Relocation → Secure Tier 2 (Health & Care Worker) visa.

Think of NEXT as your foundation, and PLAB as the bridge to your UK dream.

Preparation Tips for PLAB

How to Prepare for PLAB 1?

• Use GMC’s official blueprint and sample questions.
• Follow resources like PLABable, PassMedicine, and PLAB keys.
• Focus on clinical decision-making over rote memory.

How to Prepare for PLAB 2?

• Join UK-based academies offering mock stations.
• Improve communication skills through roleplay with peers.
• Practice ethical scenarios, as GMC heavily emphasizes professionalism.

Career Opportunities in the UK After PLAB

Doctors who clear PLAB and register with GMC can work in the NHS (National Health Service). Entry-level positions are usually at FY2 (Foundation Year 2) or SHO (Senior House Officer) levels.

Potential benefits include:

• Salary range: £32,000–£50,000 annually at entry level.
• Pathways to postgraduate training (e.g., MRCP, MRCS).
• Permanent settlement opportunities after 5 years.

For many doctors, PLAB is not just an exam—it’s a ticket to international exposure, advanced training, and financial stability.

Common Myths About PLAB

• “NEXT replaces PLAB for the UK.”
  False. NEXT is only for India’s licensing. GMC still requires PLAB or equivalent.
• “You don’t need IELTS if you’ve studied medicine in English.”
  False. GMC mandates IELTS/OET regardless of your MBBS medium.
• “PLAB is harder than USMLE.”
  Not exactly. PLAB is shorter and more clinically focused, while USMLE has more depth and research-oriented content.

FAQs on PLAB Pathway After NEXT

1. Do I need to pass NEXT before attempting PLAB?
   Not necessarily. But you’ll eventually need NEXT for valid licensure documents from India.
2. How many attempts are allowed for PLAB?
   PLAB 1: Four attempts. PLAB 2: Four attempts (with extensions possible under special circumstances).
3. Can I practice in India after PLAB?
   Yes, but only if you’ve passed NEXT for Indian licensure.
4. Is PLAB valid for other countries?
   Primarily for the UK, but some Gulf countries like UAE accept PLAB as equivalence.
5. How long is PLAB validity?
   After PLAB 1, you must clear PLAB 2 within 2 years. GMC registration after PLAB 2 is a lifetime credential.

Conclusion: Taking the Next Step

For Indian doctors, the NEXT exam validates your MBBS, while PLAB opens doors to practicing in the UK. Think of it as a two-step passport: NEXT for India, PLAB for the UK.

If your dream is an international career with the NHS, start planning now. Focus on building language proficiency, preparing thoroughly for PLAB, and mapping your career goals clearly.

With the right strategy and guidance, your journey from NEXT to PLAB to GMC registration can be smooth and rewarding.

At Career Plan B, we specialize in guiding medical graduates through complex pathways like PLAB and NEXT. From English test prep to PLAB coaching, we help you take confident steps toward your global medical career.