Free Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) Practice Test : Exam Questions & Study Guide
Preparing for your Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) registration is a critical step for international nurses wishing to work in the UK. The NMC test of competence ensures that applicants have the skills and knowledge to practice safely and effectively.
Our comprehensive guide covers everything from the NMC CBT mock test to the practical OSCE examination. Access free NMC CBT practice test resources, study guides, and vital information about the Nursing and Midwifery Council UK standards to help you pass on your first attempt.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) regulates nurses and midwives in the UK. Passing the NMC CBT practice test and OSCE is mandatory for overseas applicants to join the register.
Free NMC CBT Mock Test Questions
Start your preparation with our free NMC CBT mock test modules. These practice questions cover essential topics including professional values, communication, and clinical skills required for the CBT exam for nurses.
NMC Test Flashcards
Quick review for the Nursing and Midwifery Council exam
NMC Exam Study Guide
This study guide outlines key aspects of the Nursing and Midwifery Council UK registration process, including the NMC CBT practice test structure and Nursing Midwifery Council registration requirements.
| What is the Nursing and Midwifery Council? | The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) is the professional regulator for nurses and midwives in the UK. It maintains the register of qualified professionals and sets standards for education, training, conduct, and performance. |
| Who needs to take the NMC test? | Nurses and midwives trained outside the UK/EEA who wish to work in the UK must pass the NMC test of competence (CBT and OSCE) to join the register. |
| What is the NMC Code? | The Code Nursing and Midwifery Council publishes outlines professional standards of practice and behavior that all registered nurses and midwives must uphold. |
| Where is the Nursing and Midwifery Council address? | The main Nursing and Midwifery Council address is 23 Portland Place, London, W1B 1PZ, United Kingdom. They also have offices in Edinburgh and Cardiff. |
| What is the NMC CBT mock test format? | The Computer Based Test (CBT) consists of 115 multiple-choice questions covering numeracy and clinical practice. It is the first part of the Test of Competence. |
| What is the NMC OSCE exam? | The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is a practical exam where you demonstrate your clinical skills and knowledge in simulated scenarios. |
| How long is the NMC CBT test? | The NMC CBT test is 3 hours long. It is split into two parts: Part A covers numeracy (15 marks), and Part B covers clinical questions (100 marks). |
| Is the NMC numeracy test hard? | The NMC numeracy test requires basic drug calculation skills. Regular practice with a NMC drug calculations test simulator is recommended to ensure accuracy. |
| How do I access the Nursing and Midwifery Council portal? | You can create an account on the Nursing and Midwifery Council portal (NMC Online) to manage your registration, pay fees, and submit revalidation applications. |
| How do I register with the Nursing Midwifery Council? | To register, you must complete an eligibility check, pass the Test of Competence (CBT & OSCE), provide health and character evidence, and pay the Nursing Midwifery Council registration fee. |
| Can I take the CBT exam for nurses online? | The CBT exam for nurses must be taken at a Pearson VUE test center, though booking is done online. There are centers available worldwide. |
| What is the NMC register search? | The Nursing and Midwifery Council register search allows employers and the public to verify the registration status of any nurse or midwife in the UK. |
| When do I get my NMC test result? | CBT results are typically available within 48 hours via the Nursing and Midwifery Council portal. OSCE results are usually released within 5-10 working days. |
| What is the passing score for the NMC CBT? | The passing score varies slightly but is generally around 68% for the clinical part. For the numeracy section, you typically need to answer most questions correctly. |
| Can I retake the NMC test? | Yes, you can retake the CBT or OSCE up to three times as part of one application. You must wait at least 10 days between CBT attempts. |
| How do I check my NMC result? | Log in to your Pearson VUE NMC account or the NMC portal to view your official exam results and progress your application. |
| What is the average NMC nurse salary? | The starting salary for a newly qualified Band 5 nurse in the UK is approximately £28,407 per year, rising with experience and specialization. |
| Do Nursing and Midwifery Council jobs pay well? | Yes, working for the Nursing and Midwifery Council itself in regulatory or administrative roles offers competitive salaries and benefits packages. |
| How does specialization affect salary? | Specialist nurses (e.g., ICU, Pediatric) and those in senior roles (Band 6/7) can earn significantly more, often ranging from £35,000 to over £50,000 annually. |
| Are there extra payments for London nurses? | Yes, nurses working in London receive a High Cost Area Supplement (HCAS), which increases their basic salary by 5% to 20% depending on the zone. |
NMC Test Format & Structure
The NMC test of competence is split into two parts: the CBT and the OSCE. Understanding the format of each NMC exam component is crucial for success.
Focuses on medication dosage calculations and data interpretation.
- Topics: Drug calculations, unit conversion, fluid rates
- Questions: 15 questions
Assesses theoretical knowledge and application of The Code.
- Topics: Adult nursing, mental health, pediatrics
- Questions: 100 questions
Assessment, Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation scenarios.
- Topics: Patient care journey, documentation
- Questions: 4 stations
Demonstration of specific clinical skills in a simulated setting.
- Topics: Injections, catheterisation, CPR
- Questions: 2 pairs (4 stations)
Demonstrating understanding of The Code and ethical practice.
- Topics: Confidentiality, consent, candour
- Questions: 1 station
Evidence-based practice and research interpretation.
- Topics: Interpreting studies, applying research
- Questions: 1 station
Understanding Nursing and Midwifery Council The Code is essential. It underpins many questions in the CBT exam for nurses and is the basis for professional values stations in the OSCE. Read it thoroughly!
NMC CBT Score Calculator
Estimate your score for the CBT part of the Test of Competence
NMC Nurse Salary UK
Average annual salary for registered nurses in the UK (NHS Band 5+)
| Role Level | Annual Salary | Monthly Income | Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Band 5 Nurse | £28,407 | ~£1,850 | Entry Level |
| Band 6 Senior | £35,392 | ~£2,200 | 2-5 Years |
| Band 7 Lead | £43,742 | ~£2,600 | 5+ Years |
| Private Nurse | £32,500 | ~£2,050 | Varies |
| Agency Nurse | £45,000+ | Varies | Contract |
With experience, nurses can move into specialized roles or management, significantly increasing their earning potential in the UK healthcare system.
How to Register with Nursing and Midwifery Council
The how to register with Nursing and Midwifery Council process involves several steps for international applicants, including the NMC online eligibility check and Test of Competence.
- Create NMC Online Account - Register on the Nursing and Midwifery Council portal.
- Complete Eligibility Check - Upload passport, qualification certificates, and pay evaluation fee.
- Book CBT Exam - Once eligible, book your CBT exam for nurses with Pearson VUE NMC.
- Pass CBT - Prepare with NMC CBT mock test questions and pass the numeracy and clinical tests.
- Submit Health & Character - Provide police clearance and health declaration.
- Take OSCE - Travel to the UK (if needed) to take the OSCE at an approved test center.
- Final Registration - After passing both exams, pay the registration fee to join the NMC register.
NMC Certification Costs
Understanding Nursing and Midwifery Council fees is important for budgeting. The total cost includes evaluation, exams, and initial registration.
Expect to budget around £1,170 for direct NMC fees, plus additional costs for visas, travel, and accommodation for the OSCE.
Nursing and Midwifery Council Jobs
Specialties available after NMC registration
NMC Contact Information
For official queries, contact the Nursing and Midwifery Council UK directly.
Address: 23 Portland Place, London W1B 1PZ
Services: Official correspondence
Note: No walk-ins usually
Many NHS trusts and private healthcare providers offer sponsorship for international nurses. Check the Nursing and Midwifery Council jobs board or NHS Jobs website for opportunities.
NMC Test Day Checklist
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START FREE NMC PRACTICE TESTNursing and Midwifery Council Revalidation
Every three years, you must complete the Nursing and Midwifery Council revalidation process to maintain your registration. This ensures you remain fit to practice.
Keep a portfolio of your practice and CPD activities. Nursing and Midwifery Council UK revalidation is mandatory to continue working as a nurse or midwife in the UK.
NMC Frequently Asked Questions
The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) is the independent regulator for nurses and midwives in the UK. It maintains the register of eligible practitioners and sets educational and professional standards.
The NMC CBT test can be taken at any Pearson VUE NMC test center worldwide. You can find a location near you during the booking process on the Pearson VUE website.
To access your account, go to the Nursing and Midwifery Council portal (NMC Online). Enter your email and password to manage your registration, pay fees, or view exam results.
Yes, there are many resources available. We offer a free NMC CBT mock test on this page to help you prepare for the numeracy and clinical sections of the exam.
The main Nursing and Midwifery Council address is 23 Portland Place, London, W1B 1PZ. However, most registration tasks can be completed online.
The NMC CBT test costs £83, and the OSCE costs £794. Additionally, there is a £140 qualification evaluation fee and a £153 initial registration fee.
The Code Nursing and Midwifery Council publishes sets out the professional standards of practice and behavior. It centers on four themes: prioritize people, practise effectively, preserve safety, and promote professionalism.
You can contact the Nursing and Midwifery Council UK by phone at 020 7333 9333 or via email at overseas.enquiries@nmc-uk.org for registration queries.
If you fail the NMC test, you can retake it up to three times as part of your application. You must wait at least 10 days between CBT attempts.
You can use the "Search the register" tool on the official NMC website to verify the registration status of any nurse, midwife, or nursing associate in the UK.