What is the PRES Level 3?

PRES Level 3 is a clinical based assessment of Communication, Interpretation and Practical Skills.

The PRES Level 3 is split into two parts:

  • Interpretation skills are examined in ONE examination, which may be a paper based written exam or a computer based exam.
  • Practical and Communication Skills are examined in ONE clinical examination, where candidates rotate through a series of clinical scenarios or skill stations.

Please refer to the PRES Handbook and Blueprint for further details on the structure and content of the PRES Level 3 exam. The Blueprint sets out the knowledge, skills and behaviours candidates are expected to demonstrate in the exam.

Information on the upcoming PRES Level 3 exams and how to book a place in the exam can be found here.

PRES Alternative Exam

You can be exempted from the PRES if you have passed the UK General Medical Council’s Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board (PLAB) Part 2.

IMPORTANT – PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
Candidates seeking to sit the PLAB must meet with all of the GMC’s eligibility and language requirements, which differ from those of the Medical Council of Ireland.

Please note that you must pass PLAB 1 before you are permitted to sit PLAB 2.

PLAB 1 - Information regarding eligibility requirements and how to book a PLAB 1 place can be found here.

PLAB 2 - Information regarding eligibility requirements and how to book a PLAB 2 place can be found here.

Important: There is no reciprocal arrangement with the GMC to recognise the PRES exams. The GMC does not recognise either PRES 2 or PRES 3 for the purpose of registration.

What you need to apply

Before submitting your application online, you will need to prepare the required documents. Please read the information outlined below and in the PRES checklist before submitting your application. If you apply without the required documents, or if you do not meet the requirements for the PRES route, your application will be closed, and the application fee will not be refunded.

The following documents must be uploaded to EPIC and verified before submitting your application.

The following documents must be uploaded to your Doctor’s Portal before you have submitted your application. Please refer to the PRES checklist for information on document requirements and how to upload documents to your Doctor’s Portal.

  • Notarised/attested copy of your current passport
  • Documentary evidence of effective communication skills
  • If you have not passed the PRES Level 2 exam, you must provide evidence that you have passed an accepted alternative exam, as listed below.

An original Certificate of Good Standing/Current Professional Status, dated within the last 3 months, to be sent directly to the Medical Council from every registration body with whom you have held registration in the past five years.

Please do not submit any documents via postal services.

Please see instructions on how to submit your application in the drop down below.

Accepted Alternatives to the PRES Level 2 Exam

  • Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board (PLAB) Part 1

A pass will be accepted as valid for the same period considered by the awarding body. From 31st March 2025 the PLAB Part 1 will be valid for 2 years from the date of the exam.

  • United States Medical Licencing Exam (USMLE) Step 1 and 2 CK

A pass will be accepted as valid for the same period considered by the awarding body i.e. dated within 7 years 

  • Medical Council of Canada Evaluating Examination (MCCQE) Part 1

A pass will be accepted as valid for the same period considered by the awarding body.

  • Australian Medical Council MCQ (AMC MCQ)

A pass will be accepted as valid for the same period considered by the awarding body.

How to apply

  • To apply for registration, you must create an online account on the Medical Council’s website. This will allow you to complete an online application form.
  •  On the Login page, click on “Register Now”. Verify your email address and enter your personal details.
  •  Once your account is created you will be assigned a 6-digit reference number.
  •  You will then proceed to the home page of your online account.
  •  A notification will appear in your outstanding tasks. Open this notification and select “Start Application” to begin your application for registration.
  • Select the category which applies to you, that is “Medical practitioners who do not meet the criteria for any of the above categories”.
  •  Select “General” Division and Sub Route “Pre-Registration Examination System (PRES) Route”.
  •  From the “PRES Examination” drop-down menu, select the relevant exam you have completed.
  • Proceed through the application form.
  • Review your application Summary and ensure all required documents are ready to be submitted. The Document Checklist is also available here.
  • Proceed to the next step and upload your documents.
  • Pay the application fee of €451.00 to submit your application.
  • Proceed to the next step and pay the application fee to submit your application. The fee for the PRES exam can be found on the Fees Section of our website here.
  • Please note your application will not join the queue for assessment until all documents outlined in the PRES checklist are available for viewing through the appropriate channels.
  • If you apply without the required documents, or if you do not meet the requirements for the PRES route, your application will be closed, and the application fee will not be refunded.
  • Once your complete application has been received and assessed, your assessor will provide you with information on how to book your place in the PRES exam.

Additional Information