Part 2 of the test is a practical assessment and takes the form of an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE).
The part 2 exam is held at our Clinical Assessment Centre in Manchester.
What should I expect on the day?
When you arrive your documents will be checked and your photograph taken. You’ll be given a photocard which you’ll need to wear throughout the exam.
You’ll enter the assessment centre where small lockers are available for you to store any personal belongings while you’re taking the exam.
You won't need to take anything with you into the exam circuit, not even your own medical equipment. Everything you require will be provided.
You cannot talk to other candidates or write down or copy any details about the exam while you’re taking it. Find out more about the exam rules.
Part 2 is a practical exam and you’ll find some scenarios will have manikins or other equipment. Others will use an actor to play the part of a patient.
During each of the exam stations you will be observed by an examiner, either in person or via a remote camera. Your exam won’t be recorded and examiners will not intervene, except in very limited circumstances.
This short candidate briefing video explains what you can expect on the day.
You should allow plenty of time to travel to the assessment centre. If you’re late you won’t be able to take the exam. If you have to cancel a place you have already booked, you will have to pay a cancellation fee.
What to bring
Identification
You must bring proof of your identity. Your documents must be original, current and bear your photograph. We accept:
Your passport
Your UK Immigration and Nationality Department identification document
Your Home Office travel document
Your UK driving licence
Your EU identity card
Booking confirmation
You must also bring your booking confirmation email.
If the name on your identification document is different from that on your booking confirmation email, you must provide original evidence that you are the person named in that email. We will accept:
Your original marriage certificate if you changed your name after marriage
Your original old and new passports, showing your names before and after the name change
Do not bring
You cannot refer to or bring into the exam:
books
mobile phones
other electronic equipment such as smartwatches.
Is there a dress code?
Dress as you would to work in a UK hospital ward or other clinical setting. This would normally mean bare to the elbow with no watches, bracelets or rings. Male candidates would be expected to wear a collared shirt with short or rolled sleeves and no tie. Candidates should not wear jeans, shorts or sandals.
It is important that patients feel able to build relationships of trust and communicate freely with their doctors. Some patients, for example, may find that a face veil worn by their doctor presents an obstacle to effective communication and the development of trust. You must be prepared to respond to a patient’s individual needs and take steps to anticipate and overcome any perceived barrier to communication.
Role players are told that they must make it clear if a candidate wearing a veil is unable to communicate effectively and examiners are told that they should mark the candidate accordingly.
What conduct is expected during the examination?
You can read the examination regulations and misconduct procedures for more information.
What if I have a disability?
You should read the reasonable adjustments we may be able to make for you.
What subjects will I be asked about?
See our section on how to prepare for the PLAB part 2 exam.