NMC OSCE Preparation:

Tips, Resources, and Training




The NMC OSCE is a challenging but essential part of the nurse registration process. This page offers tips, resources, and training to help you prepare for the OSCE and pass with flying colours.

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NMC OSCE Training

Introduction


The NMC OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) ToC (Test of Competence) Parts 1 &  2 are crucial examinations for international nurses seeking to practice in the UK.


International nurses aspiring to work in the UK must undergo a rigorous assessment process to ensure they possess the necessary competencies that meet the UK nursing standards.


Successfully passing these exams are essential  for international nurses to secure their UK nurse registration and employment.


This page will provide you with some tips, resources, and training to help you prepare for the OSCE. We will also discuss the different components of the OSCE and what you can expect on the day of the exam.


Tips for Preparing for the NMC OSCE:

01

Practice makes perfect

The more you practice, the more confident you will be on the day of the exam.


We offer many resources to help you practice, including online training, simulation practice and mock exams.


02

Be familiar with the marking criteria

The NMC publishes the marking criteria for the OSCE, so be sure to familiarise yourself with it.


This will help you understand what the examiners are looking for and how you can score well.


03

Communicate effectively

Communication is an essential part of the OSCE, so be sure to communicate effectively with the examiners and the simulated patients or actors.


This means speaking clearly and concisely, and using appropriate body language.


04

Stay calm and focused

The OSCE can be a stressful exam, but it is important to stay calm and focused.


If you start to feel stressed, take a deep breath and remind yourself that you have practiced for this.  


Resources & Training

for Preparing for the NMC OSCE

  • The NMC website: The NMC website has a wealth of information about the OSCE, including the marking criteria, practice exams, and a list of approved OSCE test centres.


  • Training Courses : We have a range of online and face to face lessons available that can help you practice for the OSCE. These are a great way to get familiar with the different stations and to test your skills. We can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to pass the exam.



  • Mock Exams: As well as a number of practice exams available that can help you assess your readiness for the OSCE. We offer full simulated Mock Exam sessions.


NMC Resources

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Training Courses

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Mock Exams

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FAQs

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  • What is the NMC ToC ?

    The NMC ToC, or Test of Competence, is a two-part exam that is used to assess the skills and knowledge of nurses who are applying to join the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) register. Part 1 is a computer-based test (CBT) that assesses the candidate's knowledge of the NMC's Code of Conduct and the principles of care. Part 2 is an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) that assesses the candidate's clinical skills.

  • What is the format of the NMC ToC Part 1 (CBT) ?

    The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) Test of Competence 2021 Part 1  is a computer-based test (CBT) that assesses the knowledge and skills of nurses seeking registration in the UK. The CBT consists of 115 questions, including numeracy questions and multiple-choice questions. The test is 3 hours long and can be taken at a Pearson VUE test centre.


    The CBT is designed to assess your knowledge of the NMC's Code of Conduct and the principles of care. The numeracy questions assess your ability to perform basic mathematical calculations. The multiple-choice questions assess your knowledge of a range of nursing topics, such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and infection control.


    To pass the CBT, you must score at least 70%. Candidates who fail the CBT can retake the test after 3 months.


    The CBT is a challenging test, but it is possible to pass with careful preparation. There are a number of resources available to help you prepare for the CBT.



  • What is the format of the NMC ToC Part 2 (OSCE) ?

    The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) Test of Competence 2021 is a two-part exam that is used to assess the skills and knowledge of nurses who are applying to join the NMC register. Part 1 is a computer-based test (CBT), while Part 2 is an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE).


    The OSCE is a practical nursing examination that assesses your ability to perform a range of clinical skills. The OSCE consists of 10 stations, each of which assesses a different clinical skill. The stations are timed .


    The OSCE is designed to assess your ability to:


    • Assess a patient's health status
    • Plan and deliver care
    • Communicate effectively with patients and colleagues
    • Use evidence-based practice
    • Work safely and effectively

    To pass the OSCE, candidates must score at least 60%. Candidates who fail the OSCE can retake the test .The OSCE consists of 10 stations, each of which assesses a different clinical skill.


    The test centres will email your results to you within 5 working days of the date of your OSCE.  If you pass your OSCE, you’ll get an email with details of what to do next. 


    If you fail your OSCE, you’ll get an email with feedback on which stations and elements you were unsuccessful in. This information will help you prepare for your resit attempt as you only need to resit the stations you did not pass.


    You can take the OSCE a maximum of three times as part of your application, but you need to wait at least 10 days between each sitting.


    If you do not pass your OSCE on your third attempt, your application will close and you’ll need to start a new application if you want to register with the NMC. You must wait at least six months before you sit the OSCE again and retake all10 stations.


  • What are the fees for sitting the NMC ToC ?

    The fee for sitting both parts of the CBT (part 1) is £83. If you need to resit the CBT, the following fees will apply:

    Resit Part A  (numeracy) and Part B(clinical): £83

    Resit Part A only: £50

    Resit Part B only: £70


    The fee for the OSCE is £794. The reduced resit fee is £397 if you need to resit 7 or fewer stations.

  • Do I have to sit the NMC ToC in order Part 1 & Part 2 ?

    You can sit your CBT or OSCE in any order, but you must successfully complete both parts to continue with your application for initial registration or readmission. 


    There are five approved OSCE test providers:

    • Oxford Brookes University
    • University of Northampton
    • Ulster University
    • Northumbria University
    • Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust

  • How long is the NMC ToC Valid for ?

    You must pass the CBT and OSCE within two years of each other.  You can sit your CBT or OSCE in any order, but you need to complete both parts to continue with your application for initial registration or readmission. 


    Once you have successfully passed both the CBT and OSCE, your ToC will remain valid for five years.