PLAB 2 stations list: what you will meet
The PLAB 2 stations list is 16 scenarios of 8 minutes each plus at least 2 rest stations, according to the GMC. So PLAB 2 has 16 marked stations. Back to the PLAB 2 exam guide.
How many stations in PLAB 2
The exam lasts about 3 hours. You have 1 minute 30 seconds between stations to read the instructions. The GMC does not publish which scenarios appear, and we do not collect or publish real exam stations.
Some third-party sites say 18 stations or an 11 of 18 pass rule. The GMC page does not say that. The pass rule is explained on PLAB 2 mark scheme.
PLAB 2 stations types
The GMC describes the stations by how they are delivered and by the skills they test.
| Type | What the GMC describes |
|---|---|
| Simulated patient | An actor plays the patient. This covers most stations. |
| Model or simulator | A model, manikin or simulator shows normal and abnormal signs, and a role player speaks through a microphone. |
| Telephone | The call is already connected. Do not touch the phone. |
| Rest | At least 2 rest stations with no task. |
Skills the GMC says can be tested include abdomen, breast, chest, hand, heart, joint, and neurological, eye and ear examination, rectal and bimanual vaginal examination, and mental state examination. Practical skills include blood pressure, venepuncture, cannulation, drug dose calculation, IV, IM and SC injections, CPR for adults and children, suturing, ECG, X-ray and spirometry interpretation, catheterisation, cervical smear and sharps disposal.
Practise by theme
Our station themes are original and built from the Medical Licensing Assessment content map, not from recalled cases. Themes include history taking, spoken examination, counselling, breaking bad news, ethics, acute management and telephone calls. See PLAB 2 history taking, breaking bad news in PLAB 2, PLAB 2 ethical scenarios and the PLAB 2 mock test page.
Common questions
How many stations in PLAB 2?
16 scenarios of 8 minutes each, plus at least 2 rest stations, according to the GMC.
What are the PLAB 2 station types?
Simulated patient, model or simulator, and telephone consultations, plus rest stations.
Is there a PLAB 2 stations list pdf?
The GMC does not publish a list of scenarios. We do not publish real exam stations, but our themes are original practice.
Practise every day until it feels routine.
One pass opens every exam on the site, including the PLAB 2. From US$25 for 7 days, with no automatic renewal.
See passesSources
Checked 2026-11-06. Fees and rules change, so confirm them with the regulator before you book.