Nursing and Midwifery Council Objective Structured Clinical Examination
Administered by Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), UK
The practical clinical assessment for UK nursing registration. After passing the NMC CBT, internationally trained nurses must pass this OSCE to demonstrate clinical competence in a simulated UK healthcare setting.
Quick Facts
Format
6 OSCE stations (4 clinical, 2 non-clinical)
Duration
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Passing Score
Must pass all 6 stations. Each station is scored against specific criteria.
Valid For
Must be completed within 2 years of passing the CBT
Cost
GBP 794
Cost in Naira
Approximately N1,540,000
What is Tested
APIE Station (Assessment, Planning, Implementation, Evaluation)
Demonstrate the full nursing process: assess a patient, create a care plan, implement interventions, and evaluate outcomes.
Clinical Skills Stations
Perform clinical procedures such as medication administration, wound care, vital signs assessment, or catheter care.
Professional Values Station
Scenario testing professional judgement, ethics, safeguarding, or raising concerns about patient safety.
Evidence-Based Practice Station
Demonstrate ability to use evidence to inform clinical decisions and explain rationale for care.
How to Register
- 1
Pass the NMC CBT first.
- 2
The NMC will send you a link to book your OSCE once your CBT result is confirmed.
- 3
Pay the GBP 794 OSCE fee.
- 4
Select a test centre in the UK (available at multiple universities and testing sites).
- 5
Apply for a UK Standard Visitor visa if not already in the UK.
- 6
Travel to the UK and attend the exam.
- 7
Results are usually available within 10 working days.
Tips for Nigerian Candidates
The NMC OSCE can ONLY be taken in the UK. Budget for travel, visa, and accommodation.
Total cost including travel from Nigeria typically ranges from GBP 2,000 to GBP 3,500.
Apply for your UK visa early. Include your OSCE booking confirmation as supporting evidence.
Many Nigerian nurses arrive 1 to 2 weeks early to attend OSCE prep courses at UK universities.
Centres in Northampton and Belfast tend to have more availability than London.
Connect with Nigerian nurses already in the UK through Facebook groups for accommodation and logistics advice.
If you fail a station, you can rebook just that station (partial re-sit) rather than retaking the entire OSCE.
Preparation Tips
Practise the APIE framework until it becomes second nature.
Master medication administration using the 10 Rights of Medication Administration.
Practise clinical skills on manikins: BLS, wound dressing, NEWS2, catheterisation.
Communication skills are critical. Practise introducing yourself, confirming patient identity, and gaining consent.
Study the NMC Standards of Proficiency for Registered Nurses.
Book a place at an OSCE preparation course in the UK before your exam.
Do mock OSCEs with peers and time yourself strictly.
Recommended Resources
Cost Breakdown
Exam Fee
GBP 794
In Naira
Approximately N1,540,000
Travel required. This exam cannot be taken in Nigeria. Budget additional funds for flights, accommodation, visa, and living expenses.
Who Needs This Exam
Internationally trained nurses and midwives who have passed the NMC CBT
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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.