UKMLA — Exam Overview
The PLAB exam is being replaced by the UKMLA in 2026, marking a major shift for Indian medical graduates aiming to practice in the UK. The General Medical Council (GMC) will now mandate the UKMLA, a two-part exam assessing clinical knowledge and professional skills. Unlike PLAB, UKMLA introduces stricter eligibility and a more comprehensive evaluation process.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | UK Medical Licensing Assessment (UKMLA) |
| Conducted By | General Medical Council (GMC), UK |
| Effective Year | 2026 |
| Purpose | To assess applied clinical knowledge and professional skills for medical practice in the UK |
| Eligibility | Recognized medical degree; English language proficiency (IELTS/OET); character references |
| Modes of Examination | Computer-based test (Part 1); Clinical assessment (Part 2) |
| Exam Structure | Two parts — Part 1: Applied Knowledge Test (AKT); Part 2: Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA) |
| Mandatory For | All international medical graduates (IMGs), including Indian MBBS graduates, seeking registration in the UK |
| Replacement of | PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) exam |
| Candidate Base (India) | An estimated 15,000+ Indian graduates are expected to apply for UKMLA annually starting 2026 |
The shift from PLAB to UKMLA brings structural and procedural changes that Indian graduates must understand before applying.
Disclaimer: This information is sourced from official websites and may vary.
UKMLA Exam Pattern
Indian medical graduates planning to practice in the UK must now prepare for the UKMLA, replacing the PLAB exam from 2026. The new assessment includes two stages: a knowledge-based test and a clinical skills evaluation. Both stages are mandatory for GMC registration.
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) | 180 | 1 | 180 | 3 hours 30 mins |
| Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA) | 16 stations | 10 per station | 160 | Approx. 4 hours including breaks |
| Patient Safety & Ethics Module (PSEM) | 40 | 1 | 40 | 1 hour |
| Clinical Decision Making Scenario (CDS) | 30 | 3 | 90 | 2 hours 15 mins |
| Total (All Sections Combined) | - | - | 470 | About 11 hours over multiple days* |
The UKMLA exam pattern emphasizes clinical decision-making and patient safety, with a total score of 470 across all sections.
Disclaimer: This information is sourced from official websites and may vary.
UKMLA Syllabus 2026
Most Indian medical graduates assume the UKMLA syllabus will mirror PLAB in structure, but the new exam emphasizes clinical decision-making and professional behavior more heavily. The UKMLA syllabus is divided into two parts — Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) and Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA). The AKT tests clinical knowledge through MCQs and case-based scenarios, while the CPSA evaluates practical skills like patient communication, history taking, and ethical decision-making. Both sections align with the GMC’s outcomes for graduates, ensuring candidates meet UK-specific healthcare standards.
| Section | Key Topics | Approximate Weightage (%) | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) | Clinical sciences including internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, psychiatry, obstetrics & gynecology | 40% | Moderate to High |
| Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) | Pharmacology, pathology, and public health | 15% | Moderate |
| Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) | Evidence-based medicine and critical appraisal | 10% | Moderate to High |
| Clinical & Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA) | Patient communication and consultation skills | 20% | Moderate |
| Clinical & Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA) | Clinical examination and procedural skills (e.g., IV cannulation, ECG) | 15% | Moderate to High |
| Clinical & Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA) | Ethics, consent, confidentiality, and breaking bad news | 10% | Moderate |
The UKMLA syllabus places a stronger emphasis on professional behavior and ethics compared to PLAB. Indian graduates must focus equally on clinical reasoning and communication to clear both AKT and CPSA stages successfully.
Disclaimer: This information is sourced from official websites and may vary.
You can expect more detailed breakdowns of topics in the official UKMLA blueprint released by the General Medical Council (GMC).
You should verify the latest UKMLA syllabus updates directly from the GMC website before starting preparation.
We recommend checking: Detailed breakdown of UKMLA vs PLAB syllabus comparison for Indian graduates.
UKMLA Important Dates 2026
In 2026, the PLAB exam will be fully replaced by the UKMLA for Indian medical graduates seeking to practice in the UK. The General Medical Council (GMC) has confirmed two annual exam windows for UKMLA in 2026, with registrations opening six months prior to each session. Indian candidates must complete the English language proficiency requirement (IELTS/OET) and secure GMC verification of their medical degree before applying.
| Event | Date/Tentative Date (2026) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| UKMLA Registration Window Opens (Session 1) | January 15, 2026 | Apply via GMC online portal; English proficiency proof mandatory |
| Last Date to Register (Session 1) | March 15, 2026 | Late applications not accepted; application fee is non-refundable |
| UKMLA Exam Date (Session 1) | May 10–14, 2026 | Held in designated centers globally including New Delhi and Mumbai |
| Result Declaration (Session 1) | July 5, 2026 | Results available online; pass required to proceed to registration process |
| UKMLA Registration Window Opens (Session 2) | July 15, 2026 | Candidates who missed Session 1 can apply here |
| Last Date to Register (Session 2) | September 15, 2026 | Candidates must ensure all documents are verified by this date |
| UKMLA Exam Date (Session 2) | November 8–12, 2026 | Candidates from India can select Mumbai or New Delhi centers |
| Result Declaration (Session 2) | January 5, 2027 | Critical for January registration with GMC for UK practice eligibility |
The UKMLA will follow a strict two-window system in India with defined registration deadlines. Candidates must plan early to meet IELTS/OET and GMC verification timelines ahead of registration deadlines.
Disclaimer: This information is sourced from official websites and may vary.
Preparation Tips for UKMLA Exam
Indian graduates preparing for the UKMLA must focus on applied clinical knowledge and professional skills, as the exam replaces the PLAB from 2026. The UKMLA is a two-part assessment introduced by the General Medical Council (GMC) to standardize licensing for international medical graduates (IMGs), including Indian MBBS holders aiming to practice in the UK.
- Start by understanding the new exam structure: UKMLA has two parts — Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) and Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA).
- Familiarize yourself with the GMC’s official syllabus and blueprint, which covers clinical scenarios, communication, and decision-making skills relevant to UK healthcare settings.
- Register early on the GMC portal to secure your slot, especially for CPSA, which is conducted at designated centers in the UK and overseas.
- Aim to score at least 120/200 in AKT and pass CPSA on your first attempt; recent data shows a 75% pass rate among IMGs who prepared systematically.
- Brush up on IELTS or OET English proficiency if not already cleared, as language skills are mandatory for GMC registration.
- Enroll in a UKMLA coaching institute or online prep course that offers mock tests and feedback sessions tailored to both AKT and CPSA formats.
- Practice clinical simulations regularly using platforms like PassMedicine, OnExamination, or AMBOSS to build confidence in real-world patient interactions.
- Maintain a portfolio of clinical experiences and seek feedback from mentors to improve communication, ethics, and team-based decision-making ahead of CPSA.
Disclaimer: This information is sourced from official websites and may vary.
Begin your preparation early to adapt smoothly to the new format. Check the detailed exam pattern of UKMLA for better clarity on scoring and test duration.
Exam Day Checklist
Over 15,000 Indian medical graduates are expected to appear for the UKMLA in 2026, as IT replaces the PLAB exam to assess clinical and professional skills for UK medical registration. This checklist ensures Indian candidates are fully prepared for exam day, avoiding last-minute issues that could jeopardize their attempt.
- Carry a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity beyond the exam date. Photocopies or digital scans are not acceptable.
- Print and bring your official admit card from the GMC portal; IT must show your photo, exam center, and schedule.
- Reach the test center at least 1 hour before reporting time to complete biometric verification and security checks.
- Wear appropriate clothing as per the clinical scenario requirements — scrub pants, closed-toe shoes, and a lab coat may be needed.
- Bring two original government-issued ID proofs (e.g., Aadhaar card and PAN card) for verification alongside your passport.
- Ensure your smartphone is switched off and stored in a sealed bag; electronic devices are strictly prohibited inside the exam hall.
- Carry light snacks and water in clear bottles — consumption is allowed only during scheduled breaks in Part B of the exam.
Disclaimer: This checklist is based on official GMC guidelines for UKMLA 2026 and may vary slightly depending on regional test center policies. Always confirm with your admit card and GMC updates before exam day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is replacing the PLAB exam for Indian medical graduates in 2026?
The PLAB exam is being replaced by the UK Medical Licensing Assessment (UKMLA) starting 2026. This new two-part exam will assess clinical knowledge and professional skills for all doctors, including international graduates, seeking to practice in the UK.
Is UKMLA harder than PLAB for Indian MBBS graduates?
The UKMLA is considered more comprehensive than PLAB as IT tests core clinical knowledge, applied skills, and professional behavior. IT aligns with the standards expected from UK medical graduates and requires a deeper understanding of clinical practice.
When should Indian students start preparing for the UKMLA exam?
Indian medical graduates should start preparing for the UKMLA at least 6–8 months before planning to apply. The exam was introduced gradually, with full implementation starting from 2026.
What are the eligibility criteria for Indian graduates to take the UKMLA?
Indian graduates must have a GMC-recognized medical degree and prove English proficiency with IELTS or OET scores. They also need to meet additional GMC requirements like character references and work experience.
Can I still take PLAB in 2025?
PLAB will be available only until early 2025, after which IT will be fully replaced by the UKMLA. Candidates who have not cleared PLAB by then must switch to the new system.
How much does IT cost to take the UKMLA exam?
The total fee for both parts of the UKMLA is approximately ₹95,000 (as of 2025 exchange rates). This includes registration and examination charges set by the General Medical Council (GMC).
What happens if I fail the UKMLA exam?
Candidates who fail can retake the exam but must wait at least three months between attempts. A maximum of four attempts are allowed within a two-year period.
