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UK NMC's two-part clinical competency test — the final step before your NMC PIN
The NMC Test of Competence has two parts: the Computer-Based Test (CBT) and the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). The CBT tests theoretical nursing knowledge. The OSCE is a practical clinical assessment conducted in the UK at approved assessment centres. Both must be passed to receive your NMC PIN and practice legally in the UK.
Passing Score
CBT: varies by version (typically 60-65%). OSCE: Pass in all stations.
Preparation Time
2–5 months
Registration Fee
≈ ₹35K
Result Validity
CBT: 2 years. OSCE: must be taken within 2 years of passing CBT.
Pass Rate (Indian nurses)
CBT: ~80% first attempt. OSCE: ~60-65% first attempt for Indian nurses.
Mandatory for
United Kingdom
Multiple choice questions. Tests clinical knowledge, pharmacology, professional practice, ethics. Taken in India at Pearson VUE centres.
16 clinical stations. Tests practical nursing skills — vital signs, medication administration, wound care, communication, infection control. Conducted in the UK.
Yes. The CBT can be taken at Pearson VUE test centres in India. Most major Indian cities have Pearson VUE centres. This means you do not need to travel to the UK for the CBT — only for the OSCE. Passing the CBT before arriving in the UK is standard practice for Indian nurses.
NMC allows three attempts at the OSCE within a 2-year period from passing your CBT. If you fail all three OSCE attempts, your application lapses and you must start the process again. Most nurses pass within 1-2 attempts. A second attempt is common and not a significant setback.
Each OSCE station is 7-10 minutes and assesses a specific clinical skill or scenario. Stations include: vital signs measurement, medication administration, wound care, aseptic technique, patient assessment, handover (SBAR), communication scenarios, and professional practice situations. An assessor marks your performance against a pre-defined mark scheme.
Source & Attribution
Sources
Information reviewed against official exam body publications, candidate handbooks, and regulatory guidelines. Fees and timelines are indicative and should be verified against the issuing authority before applying.