English language tests and the NMC:
Step 1: English language test
For NMC purposes: You can take either the UKVI IELTS or Academic IELTS and score 7 in each section & 6.5 in Writing or you can take the OET and score a B in each section and a C+ in Writing.
For more information on the IELTS see here.
For more information on the OET see here.
Step 2: Initial NMC registration
You need to upload your Passport, Qualification and Registration information to the NMC website.
For more information on the NMC registration requirements see here.
Once this verification is completed, you will receive an invite to register with Pearson Vue to take your CBT.
Step 3: NMC test of competence part 1 - CBT
Once the eligibility assessment is passed, you will be asked to sit the first part of the test of competence. This will be a computer-based test (CBT) of theoretical practice-based knowledge. The test format will be multiple choice and can be taken in test centres around the world. Applicants will need to contact Pearson Vue, the test provider, to book and pay for their test.
For more information on the CBT see here.
Step 4: Completing NMC final registration
You will then provide health declaration, police clearances and English language evidence before arriving in the UK. These documents MUST be uploaded to your account before you fly to the UK.
Arriving in the UK
Once you have passed your CBT we can start the visa application and arrange a start date with you. When you arrive
in the UK you will be required to book the second part of your assessment (your employer may book this for you). This is a practical examination called an OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination). This will act out scenarios which nurses are likely to encounter when they assess, plan, carry out and evaluate care.
You can take the OSCE in the following places (speak to us about booking on to a course) :
- Oxford Brookes University. Note, this University has two locations for the test, Oxford and Swindon. You will not know which location until the test is booked, as it is based on availability. You can find out more information on their website here.
- University of Northampton. You can find out more information here.
- Ulster University. You can find out more information here.
OSCE Training
Delivered over a 4 day programme and based on the criteria set by the NMC, our course syllabus at Yeovil Hospital, equips candidates with the practical and theoretical knowledge to pass the OSCE.
Led by experienced practitioners the programme covers all core elements set out in part 2 of the NMC test of competence:
- Assessment, Implementation, Planning & Evaluation (AIPE)
- Skills stations
- Basic Life Support using QCPR technology giving real time objective feedback
- Communication including Holistic Patient Centred Care and Active Listening Skills
- OSCE Top Tips
The course also features a mock assessment to ensure candidates have the opportunity to practice their skills under exam conditions in preparation for their final exam.
Sign up for a place here.
If you would like to find out more we can also provide accommodation for our training, please contact:
Telephone: 01935 303095
Email: osce@ydh.nhs.uk
Suggested reading
We suggest you read the following:
We will support you as much as we can through this process and strongly recommend you visit the NMC website for further information.
Additional benefits at YDH only
We offer £1000 to help towards your relocation and your first OSCE test is paid for by the hospital. Contact us for more details: overseas.recruitment@ydh.nhs.uk
Code of Practice for International Recruitment
At YDH we are committed to ethical recruitment practices and fully adhere with the WHO Code of Practice. As such we are unable to recruit form the WHO list of 47 developing countries, which includes Nigeria, Ghana and Pakistan. Full details of the code of practice and the standards we follow can be found here: https://www.nhsemployers.org/articles/code-practice-international-recruitment
