NMC TEST OF COMPETENCE

The NMC is the professional regulator for nurses and midwives in the UK. Those seeking to register with either of these two professions in the UK have to undertake this test.

TThe test comprises of two parts: one is a computer based test (CBT) which is a multiple choice theory exam to test various theoretical aspects of the candidate’s knowledge. There will be 120 questions, to be answered within 4 hour duration and no negative marking. The second part is the objective structured clinical examination (OSCE), with the primary aim being to test practical knowledge. In the OSCE, candidates will act out various scenarios that nurses and midwives often encounter. Each clinical examination is labelled as a ‘station’ and candidates are expected to visit all the stations (6 in total) within a specified duration of time.

Candidates can only appear for the OSCE after successful completion of the CBT. The CBT is conducted at various Pearson VUE centres around India whereas the OSCE is only conducted at designated universities in UK. For the CBT, exam results will be mailed to the candidates within 48 hours of appearing for the exams. Candidates can also check the results by logging into their Pearson VUE account online.

For the CBT, if an applicant is unsuccessful in their first attempt, they can retake the exam after 28 days waiting period. If the second attempt is also unsuccessful, the application will close. They will then have to submit a new application but only after 6 month time period.

For the OSCE, if the first attempt is unsuccessful, applicants can sit for the exam after duration of 10 days. If the second attempt is unsuccessful, applicants can take the exam again after duration of 3 months. If the third attempt is also unsuccessful, a new application will have to be submitted. However, the OSCE can only be undertaken after a 6 month time.

Interested candidates can book and pay for the exam through the Pearson Vue website. You will need to create an account by accessing Here and schedule the exam according to your convenience.