Ready to become a Registered Nurse (RN) in the UK?
After passing the NMC credential verification for international nurses and the CBT exam, your next milestone in the UK nursing registration process 2024 is the OSCE exam and obtaining your Skilled Worker Visa.
In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through every step: passing the OSCE, applying for your visa, and achieving full NMC registration!
Introduction: OSCE & UK Visa Process Explained – Your Final Step Before Registration!
Want to work as a Registered Nurse in the UK? After passing the CBT, your next mission is to conquer the OSCE exam—and secure your UK visa so you can take it in person!
Welcome to Part 3 of our UK Nursing Licensure Blog Series, where we walk you through everything you need to know about the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) and the UK visa process for international nurses.
We know this stage can feel overwhelming. Between finding a job offer, applying for a Skilled Worker Visa, booking your OSCE, and planning your travel—it’s a lot to manage. But don’t worry! This guide breaks down every step with simple instructions, helpful links, and expert insights to keep you on track.
This is Part 3 of our UK Nursing Licensure Blog Series:
In This Guide, You’ll Learn: What the OSCE exam is and how it fits into the ToC
How to get a job offer and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Which UK visa to apply for—and how to apply step-by-step
How to book your OSCE and what to expect on exam day
What to bring, how to prepare, and what happens after you pass
Whether you’ve secured a job or are coming for the OSCE only, this guide will help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Let’s dive in and get you one step closer to becoming a UK Registered Nurse!
Step 1: Understanding the Test of Competence (ToC) & OSCE
The Test of Competence (ToC) is a two-part assessment that internationally trained nurses must complete to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) in the UK.
What Does the ToC Include?
Part 1: CBT (Computer-Based Test) – A multiple-choice theory exam testing nursing knowledge (Completed in your home country).
Part 2: OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) – A practical exam taken in the UK, assessing clinical skills and patient care.
Both exams must be completed within two years of each other to maintain eligibility for NMC registration.
Understanding the OSCE Exam Structure (10 Stations)
The OSCE assesses how well you apply nursing knowledge in a simulated UK healthcare setting. The exam consists of 10 stations:
Two sets of paired clinical skills (e.g., Catheterization, Wound Care)
2 Professional Values & Evidence-Based Practice Stations
One station on professional values & behaviors
One station on clinical evidence & decision-making
The OSCE is the final stage of your NMC registration process.
Now, let’s get you ready to travel to the UK for your OSCE!
Step 2: Get a Job Offer & Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
If you plan to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa (Health and Care Worker Visa), securing a job offer from a UK employer is your first step. Your employer must be a licensed sponsor who will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)—a requirement for your visa application.
Where to Find UK Nursing Jobs with Sponsorship
You can apply for nursing jobs directly through NHS Trusts, private hospitals, or care homes, or use recruitment agencies specializing in hiring international nurses.
Step 3: Attend virtual interviews with potential employers.
Step 4: Receive a Job Offer & Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed UK employer.
Next Step: Apply for Your UK Visa!
Once you receive your CoS, you’re ready to start your UK visa application process!
Step 3: Apply for a UK Visa
To enter the UK, international nurses must apply for a visa. The visa you choose depends on whether you already have a job offer or need to take the OSCE first before securing employment.
Option 1: Skilled Worker Visa (With Sponsorship) – The Best Route
If you have a job offer from a UK healthcare employer and a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), you can apply for a Health and Care Worker Visa under the Skilled Worker Visa category.
Benefits of the Skilled Worker Visa:
Allows you to work as a registered nurse in the UK
Fast-tracked application process
Many NHS employers cover visa costs and flight expenses
Exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) (£624 per year) for NHS & registered healthcare workers
Book a biometric appointment (Fingerprint & photo submission)
Wait for visa approval (Processing time: 3-8 weeks)
Pro Tip: Apply for your visa immediately after receiving your CoS to avoid delays in travel and OSCE booking!
Option 2: Temporary Work (T5) Visa – For OSCE Exam Only
If you haven’t secured a job offer yet but need to enter the UK to take the OSCE exam, you can apply for a Temporary Work – Government Authorized Exchange Visa (T5).
Benefits of the T5 Visa:
Allows you to enter the UK solely to take the OSCE exam
Short-term visa (valid for up to 6 months)
Gives you time to pass the OSCE before applying for a job
Proof of financial support (you must have enough funds to cover your stay)
TB Test Certificate (if applicable)
Pay the visa fee: £259 GBP
Book a biometric appointment (Fingerprint & photo submission)
Wait for visa approval (Processing time: 3-8 weeks)
Important Notes:
The T5 visa does NOT allow you to work—it is only for taking the OSCE exam.
Once you pass the OSCE, you must return to your home country and apply for a Skilled Worker Visa to work in the UK.
Which Visa Should You Apply For?
Your Situation
Best Visa Option
You have a job offer with sponsorship
Health and Care Worker Visa (Skilled Worker Visa)
You only need to take the OSCE exam in the UK
Temporary Work (T5) Visa
Key Update: Choosing the Right Visa for Your Future
Skilled Worker Visa Allows you to work immediately after passing the OSCE.
Temporary Work (T5) Visa Only for taking the OSCE—you cannot work until you return home and apply for a Skilled Worker Visa.
Best Advice: If possible, secure a job offer before coming to the UK so you can apply for the Skilled Worker Visa right away. This avoids the extra step of returning home after the OSCE and speeds up your journey to becoming a UK RN.
Final Advice: If you already have a job offer, apply for a Skilled Worker Visa—it’s the easiest and fastest way to start working as a nurse in the UK. If you only need to take the OSCE, apply for a T5 Visa, but remember you’ll need to return home and apply for a Skilled Worker Visa after passing.
Step 4: Book & Take the OSCE Exam in the UK
Now that your visa is approved, you can book your OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination)—the final step in the Test of Competence (ToC) process. The OSCE is a practical exam that evaluates your clinical skills, professional values, and ability to apply evidence-based practice in real-life scenarios.
How to Book Your OSCE Exam
You can book your OSCE exam through one of the five NMC-approved test centers in the UK. Follow these steps:
Work on time management and confidence when performing clinical tasks under exam conditions.
Pro Tip: Many nurses fail due to nervousness rather than lack of knowledge. Stay calm, follow procedures, and think critically!
What to Bring on OSCE Exam Day
Make sure you have all the necessary documents and items ready before heading to the test center:
Required Documents & Essentials:
Valid Passport & Visa (For ID verification)
OSCE Booking Confirmation Email (Printed or digital copy)
Comfortable, professional attire (Scrubs or smart clothing)
Clinical equipment (If specified by your test center)
Pro Tip: Arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow time for check-in and avoid last-minute stress!
What Happens After the OSCE Exam?
Results Timeline
If You Pass
If You Don’t Pass on the First Attempt
OSCE results are emailed within 5 working days.
Congratulations! You can now proceed to Step 5—NMC registration and officially become a UK Registered Nurse (RN)!
No worries! You can resit only the stations you didn’t pass after 10 days.
You are allowed two resit attempts, meaning you can reattempt the failed stations twice before needing to retake the full OSCE.
If you fail twice, you must wait six months before booking the full OSCE again.
Pro Tip: Take time to review feedback, practice thoroughly, and focus on your weak areas before rebooking. Many nurses pass on their second or third attempt!
Step 5: Travel to the UK & Take the OSCE Exam
Now that your visa is approved and your NMC registration process is in motion, it’s time to travel to the UK to take the OSCE exam—the final step toward becoming a UK Registered Nurse (RN)!
What to Do Before Your OSCE:
Book Your Flight & Accommodation – Arrive in the UK with enough time to adjust before your exam date.
Bring Essential Documents – Carry your passport, visa, and OSCE booking confirmation for ID verification.
Arrive Early – Test centers require prompt check-in, so arrive at least 30 minutes before your exam.
Follow All Test Center Rules – Adhere to NMC OSCE regulations to ensure a smooth exam process.
Pro Tip: : Stay calm, follow proper clinical procedures, and confidently demonstrate your nursing skills!
Step 6: After Passing the OSCE – Completing NMC Registration
You did it! After successfully passing the OSCE exam, you’re just a few steps away from officially becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) in the UK!
Final Steps to Complete NMC Registration:
Step 1: Log in to your NMC Online account and submit your OSCE results.
Step 2: Pay the NMC registration fee of £153 GBP.
Step 3: Wait for your NMC PIN number—this is your official UK nursing license!
Congratulations! You are now a Registered Nurse (RN) in the UK!
Final Thoughts: Preparing for the OSCE & Next Steps!
From passing the CBT to securing a job offer and visa, you’ve already tackled some of the biggest challenges on your journey. Now, with just one final exam ahead, you’re closer than ever to officially becoming a Registered Nurse in the UK!
A Few Last Tips Before Your OSCE:
Practice under timed conditions to get comfortable with the exam format.
Stay familiar with the NMC Code and UK clinical standards.
Keep a positive mindset—confidence makes all the difference!
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Your UK nursing career is within reach—let’s make sure you’re fully prepared for the OSCE!
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We’re cheering for you and can’t wait to see you succeed as a UK RN!
What’s Next?
Once you pass the OSCE, you’ll move on to the final step—official NMC registration! But first, make sure you’re fully prepared. Our next blogwill walk you through everything you need to pass the OSCE on your first attempt. Join Monse-Heart’s OSCE Exam/English Test preparation courses designed to help you pass with confidence.
Download our FREE 2-page PDF Step 3 – OSCE & UK Visa Roadmap (2024) – your step-by step guide to mastering the exam format, key topics, registration process, and top study tips.
Fill the form & Download PDF Guide!
Your dream of starting a new life as a UK-Registered Nurse is closer than you think — start preparing today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – OSCE & UK Visa Process
1. How long does it take to get OSCE exam results?
• OSCE results are emailed within 5 working days after taking the exam.
2. What happens if I fail the OSCE?
• If you fail some stations, you can resit only the failed stations after 10 days. • You get two resit attempts (meaning you have three total chances to pass). • If you fail the OSCE twice, you must wait 6 months and retake the full OSCE from the beginning.
3. How soon should I book my OSCE after arriving in the UK?
• It’s best to book your OSCE exam immediately after securing your visa, as test slots fill up quickly.
4. Can I work while waiting for my OSCE results?
• If you are on a Skilled Worker Visa, you can work as a pre-registered nurse while waiting for your OSCE results. • If you are on a T5 Temporary Work Visa, you cannot work until you pass the OSCE and switch to a Skilled Worker Visa.
5. What documents do I need to complete my NMC registration after passing the OSCE?
• Log in to NMC Online and submit your OSCE results. • Pay the NMC registration fee (£153 GBP). • Wait for your NMC PIN number, which confirms your official UK nursing registration. • Still have questions? Drop a comment below or reach out to Monse-Heart for expert guidance!
Disclaimer:
Monse-Heart Institute provides general information to assist international nurses in understanding the OSCE exam and UK visa process. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of our content, immigration rules, NMC requirements, and exam procedures may change. Readers should always refer to official government websites and NMC resources for the most up-to-date information before making any application or immigration decisions. Monse Heart is not affiliated with the UK Home Office, NMC, or any official immigration authority.
