Nursing and Midwifery Council Computer-Based Test
Administered by Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), UK
The computer-based test required for internationally trained nurses and midwives seeking registration with the UK Nursing and Midwifery Council. It assesses your nursing knowledge against UK standards of proficiency.
Quick Facts
Format
120 multiple-choice questions
Duration
4 hours
Passing Score
Determined each sitting based on standard setting (typically around 60%)
Valid For
2 years (to complete the NMC OSCE)
Cost
GBP 83
Cost in Naira
Approximately N160,000
Test Centres in Nigeria
- Pearson VUE Lagos
- Pearson VUE Abuja
- Pearson VUE Port Harcourt
What is Tested
Professional Values
Questions on nursing ethics, professional standards, duty of care, consent, safeguarding, and NMC Code compliance.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Effective communication with patients, families, and multidisciplinary teams. Documentation and handover.
Nursing Practice and Decision Making
Clinical assessment, care planning, medication administration, and evidence-based nursing interventions.
Leadership, Management and Team Working
Delegation, supervision, workload management, and quality improvement in nursing practice.
How to Register
- 1
Create an NMC Online account at nmc.org.uk.
- 2
Submit your application for NMC registration as an overseas nurse/midwife.
- 3
Provide verified copies of your nursing qualification and transcripts.
- 4
Demonstrate English language proficiency (IELTS Academic overall 7.0 with minimum 7.0 in each band, or OET Grade B).
- 5
Once approved to sit the CBT, book your test through Pearson VUE.
- 6
Pay the GBP 83 exam fee.
- 7
Select a Pearson VUE centre in Nigeria and choose your preferred date.
- 8
Attend the exam with valid identification.
Tips for Nigerian Candidates
Pearson VUE centres are available in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. Book early as slots fill quickly.
You need IELTS Academic (7.0 overall, 7.0 in each band) or OET Grade B BEFORE you can book the CBT.
The NMC application process requires your nursing school to verify your training directly. Contact your school early.
Credential verification through NMCN (Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria) can take several weeks.
Join Facebook groups like 'Nigerian Nurses in the UK' for guidance and study materials.
UK nursing practice emphasises patient autonomy and shared decision-making more than the Nigerian model.
Many Nigerian nurses pass the CBT on first attempt with 2 to 3 months of focused preparation.
Preparation Tips
Study the NMC Code of Conduct thoroughly. Many questions are based on professional standards.
Understand UK-specific nursing practices, which differ from Nigerian training in some areas.
Practise medication calculations (drug dosage, IV drip rates, unit conversions).
Focus on patient safety, safeguarding (adults and children), and consent laws in the UK.
Use the NMC Test of Competence practice test on the official website.
Study infection control, manual handling, and NEWS2 scoring.
Allow 2 to 3 months of preparation, especially if not familiar with UK nursing standards.
Recommended Resources
Cost Breakdown
Exam Fee
GBP 83
In Naira
Approximately N160,000
Who Needs This Exam
Internationally trained nurses and midwives who want to practise in the United Kingdom
Related Exams
Check your readiness score
Find out how prepared you are for this exam and get personalised recommendations for your career path.
Take the assessmentJoin CadreHealth
Connect with other healthcare professionals preparing for exams. Access salary data, hospital reviews, and career guidance.
Join freeVerify before you act
Exam fees, visa costs, and requirements change frequently. The information on this page was last reviewed in April 2026. Always confirm fees and requirements directly with the official body before making payments or decisions.
Exchange rates are approximate and fluctuate daily.