Take a deep breath. No, seriously. Do it. Inhale. Exhale. Good. Calm? Cool? Collected? Let’s proceed. You’ve completed PLAB/UKMLA 1, congratulations!! What do you mean, the results aren’t out yet? I already know you’ve passed. Now we must work on what is next- PLAB/UKMLA 2, GMC registration and your life as a doctor in the UK.

I know it may seem daunting, but don’t worry. Many have gone down this road, and there is always someone to help if you need it.

Planning for PLAB 2 and course

First and foremost, you have to take into consideration when you want to take the next exam, because at least 4-6 weeks before that date, you should start a PLAB/UKMLA 2 preparatory course (the course takes ~2-3 weeks, you practice for 2-4 weeks- that makes it 4-6 weeks). And don’t forget, you need to apply for a Standard Visitor visa (PLAB 2 Visa) as soon as you’ve booked your exam and course. I’ve discussed both topics here in how to plan for PLAB 2 & course.

Planning for UK Visa for PLAB/UKMLA 2

Applying for a UK Visa to appear in PLAB/UKMLA 2 is a huge ordeal. Please check out the UK Visa Guidance for PLAB 2 for further details, and be very certain about the finances that will be shown.

Planning for the documents for GMC registration

After visa things sorted out, you need to figure out all the papers you will need for your GMC registration after you successfully pass the second part. Here’s a post about the evidences needed for GMC registration application.

Arranging for EPIC verification

Your primary medical qualification will need to be verified by EPIC, a service by ECFMG. If you already haven’t done so, go ahead and start working on that now.

Here you will find how to go about doing this with ‘EPIC’ for GMC registration.

Planning for this and that

Next, all things considered, you need to sketch out a tentative expenditure guideline for while you will be in the UK. You need to find a place to stay, if you don’t have any family or friends to stay with, and also figure out how much you could potentially be spending on food, and future costs relating to travel expenses around London,and onward to Manchester for your PLAB 2 exam.

To summarize

  • Relax a little. You won’t have to actively do anything before your results come out.
  • Start planning for your UK visa application. Arrange for the documents you may need.
  • Gather enough resources to ensure you will have a comfortable stay.
  • Don’t think you need to start preparing for PLAB/UKMLA 2. The course you’ll take will be more than sufficient.

And most importantly!

Take a break. You deserve it!