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The USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) and the PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board) are gateway examinations for medical practice in the United States of America and the United Kingdom respectively. Although alternate paths exist, these pathways are opted by most medical professionals wishing to emigrate due to their popularity and ease of getting a licence.

USMLE Exam Overview

 The USMLE exam consists of three parts effectively known as USMLE steps. The first part is USMLE step 1, which evaluates the ability of aspirants to apply basic sciences to a medical setting. It is divided into seven blocks of 60 minute sessions. With a total number of questions not exceeding 280.

The next part of the exam is USMLE Step 2 CK, which assesses an aspirant’s ability to apply their skills and medical understanding in clinical science for patient care. This Step is divided into 8 blocks of 60-minute sessions.

The last and third step is called USMLE Step 3, which is a 2 day examination that includes up to 232 questions in a span of 6 blocks of 60 minutes. The second includes 180 questions and 13 case simulations.

PLAB Exam Overview

The PLAB exam consists of two parts, effectively known as PLAB 1 and PLAB 2. In which PLAB 1 is a computer-based exam that assesses the candidates’ foundational knowledge and understanding of the core principles of clinical practice.

The PLAB 2 exam is a clinical exam that evaluates the students clinical and communicational prowess in a clinical setting. The exam evaluates these core skills through a series of 16 stations.

Choosing the right pathway

Choosing the right exam to prepare for depends on many factors like your country of interest and professional aspirations but the primary factor is your interest to practise medicine in which country.

Tips to make the manageable Study schedule for USMLE or PLAB

• Understand the Exam Format and Syllabus: Get a clear understanding of the exam format and syllabus in order to grasp the essentials of the exam.
• Personalised learning plan: Based on your thorough understanding of the syllabus and create a personalised learning plan leveraging your strengths.
• Guidance from expert mentors: guidance from mentors can seamlessly let you take the right steps without any deviations or confusions. All the while they can act as your moral support throughout your study.
• Practice questions: Keep on taking mock exams at regular intervals mirroring the exam to get a grasp of your progress all the while covering your weak spots.

Feel free to contact our team for further assistance

Authored By: Sanad Beevi