Program Overview

PLAB 2/Medical Licensing Assessment Preparation, PGCert

Overview

The PGCert in PLAB 2/Medical Licensing Assessment (MLA) preparation is designed to prepare International Medical Graduates to complete the external General Medical Council (GMC) MLA and therefore be eligible to work in the UK.

Course Details

• Duration: 13 weeks
• Attendance: Part-time
• Location: Online learning
• Start: January 2026, June 2026

Why Study with Us

• The first PLAB2/MLA preparation course run by a British university.
• Taught by university academics with extensive clinical experience.
• Small class sizes allow you to get personal attention and support.

Important Information

• This course is only available to international students.

What You'll Do

• During course weeks 1-12, you will undertake blended learning including on-demand and in-person teaching online.
• In the final week of the course, you will come to Preston to undertake practice assessments for the PLAB 2/MLA Clinical and Professional Skills Assessment (CPSA).
• You will also have access to a wealth of online resources via our virtual learning environment.

Modules

Compulsory Modules

• Medical Licensing Assessment Preparation
  • Module code: MB4000
  • Description: To develop evidence-based knowledge, skills, attributes, and behaviors that are expected of a safe and effective clinician and demonstrate the concept of professional practice within the healthcare team as outlined in the current Medical Licensing Assessment GMC (regulatory body) requirements.

Entry Requirements

• Minimum Qualifications:
  • IELTS score of 7.5 or OET score of minimum 350 (Grade B) in all four of the OET sub-tests
  • International equivalent of MBBS (2:2 or above) which is not on the list of institutions from which medical qualifications are deemed not acceptable by the GMC

Fees and Funding

• 2024/25:
  • International: Online part-time £1000 per 20 credits
• 2025/26:
  • International: Online part-time £1,050 per 20 credits

Additional Costs

• As part of your course, there may be additional costs to consider that are not included in your tuition fees. Most of these will be optional, but some courses have essential additional costs.

Scholarships and Bursaries

• We offer many scholarships, bursaries, and funds to support you during your studies. Select your country or region to see if you are eligible and how to apply.

Learning and Assessment

• The module is delivered through a blended approach to learning, combining online asynchronous lectures and online in-person tutorials with peer-supported one-to-one learning when required.
• Assessment is in the form of a practical OSCE examination.

Pathway Opportunities

• On successful completion of the course, you will be awarded a Postgraduate Certificate in PLAB 2/MLA preparation course. This award is 60 credits at postgraduate study level.
• Students may continue in their studies towards a PGDip and MSc in Clinical Practice, Management, and Education.

Further Information

• You will need to apply for a standard visitor visa, and once all course requirements have been met, the University will provide you with a course offer letter that you will need to evidence for your visa application.
• You need to independently book your travel requirements and your accommodation in Preston near the University campus, with arrival at your accommodation at least 1 day before the start day of the final week (week 13) of the course.
• You’ll have access to personal tutors within the School, wider University support services, and to the School of Medicine bespoke team of Pastoral Tutors.

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Future Careers

• Successful completion of the GMC PLAB 2/MLA is necessary for all international doctors who wish to work in the UK.
• This program can enhance IMGs’ applications for UK employment, enhance their medical education profile, and lead to further study.