No, PLAB 1 is a linear, fixed-form exam, not computer-adaptive. It is a fixed set of multiple-choice questions in which the difficulty does not respond to how you answer, and every candidate sitting that paper faces the same questions.
What the PLAB 1 format actually is
PLAB 1 is 180 single-best-answer questions to be answered in three hours, delivered as a fixed paper. From September 2026 it is based on the updated 2026 MLA content map, so it shares the same standard as the UKMLA. It is fixed-form, so you can review and return to questions within the paper, which an adaptive test does not allow.
How the pass mark is really set
PLAB 1 uses the Angoff method, where a panel estimates how a just-competent candidate would perform on each question to set the pass mark, historically in the region of 110 to 118 out of 180 depending on the paper's difficulty. Because the standard is set per paper, the exact mark needed varies between sittings while the competence bar stays constant. For the wider picture, see how medical exam pass marks are set.
What would be different if it were adaptive
If PLAB 1 were adaptive, it would adjust each question to your running ability and every candidate would see a different paper, with difficulty climbing as you answered well, as in the AMC CAT. We cover that in how computer-adaptive testing works. PLAB 1 is not adaptive: it is one fixed paper judged against one standard.
How to prepare given the linear format
Since the exam is fixed-form, put the adaptivity into your revision. Target the topics you are weak in and space your practice to retain them, rather than doing undirected volume. iatroX's adaptive engine surfaces your weakest areas first, with free sample questions at iatroX.
Frequently asked questions
Is PLAB 1 adaptive? No. It is a linear, fixed-form paper of 180 single-best-answer questions. Difficulty does not respond to your answers.
How many questions are on PLAB 1? 180 single-best-answer questions in three hours, based on the 2026 MLA content map from September 2026.
Does the pass mark change? Yes, slightly, because the Angoff standard is set per paper for difficulty. The competence standard itself stays the same across sittings.