If you’re an overseas nurse planning to work in the UK, the NMC OSCE is a crucial step in your registration process. This guide will walk you through what the OSCE is, how it works, and how to pass it — with the support of Oportal and Mentor Merlin.
What is the NMC OSCE?
The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is the final part of the UK NMC registration process for international nurses. It tests your ability to apply clinical knowledge and skills in real-life patient care scenarios.
- Conducted in an NMC-approved test centre in the UK
- Typically includes 10 stations: 4 APIE stations, 4 clinical skills, 2 professional values/safety
- You must demonstrate safe, effective, and professional practice
Who Needs to Take the OSCE?
If you are an internationally educated nurse applying for UK registration via the NMC overseas route, and you’ve already cleared your CBT and English language test, the OSCE is your next step.
OSCE Format and Stations
The OSCE consists of:
- APIE Stations: Assessment, Planning, Implementation, Evaluation
- Clinical Skills: Wound care, catheterisation, injections, vital signs, etc.
- Professional Values & Evidence-Based Practice
- Silent Station: Clinical decision-making or numeracy test
Each station is timed and scored using strict NMC marking criteria.
How to Prepare for the OSCE
Preparation is key — and that’s where Mentor Merlin comes in:
- Online & Onsite OSCE training
- Practice with real-time feedback
- Access to UK-experienced trainers
- OSCE mock exams & revision kits
Oportal will also assist you in securing a Visit Visa to attend your exam in the UK.
What Happens If You Fail?
If you fail one or more stations, you can resit them individually. However, you must pass all stations to complete your registration.
- You have a maximum of 3 attempts within 6 months
- After a third fail, a new application must be submitted
Why Oportal + Mentor Merlin is Your Best Choice
- Complete OSCE training with outstanding success rates
- Visa assistance for attending your OSCE exam in the UK
- Post-OSCE support for licensing and job placement
Get Started Today
Ready to take the next step in your UK nursing journey?
📞 Call Oportal at (+44) 7418-607264
📧 Email us at [email protected]
📍 Mentor Merlin OSCE Centres: Leeds | London | Northampton
Let Oportal and Mentor Merlin guide you from OSCE prep to UK registration with ease.
