The OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) is a major part of the application process for the nurses who are willing to move and practice in countries like New Zealand, Australia, the UK, and Canada. Besides the demonstration of clinical skills, the OSCE also tests the candidate’s ability to deal with real-life scenarios in patient care.
Still, this companion will take the lead on everything that you need to know—first, the test; second, the subject matter; and third, if you are a nurse preparing for the OSCE test in 2025.
What is the OSCE test for nurses?
The OSCE test for nurses is a practical skill-based test that shows how the nursing staff comply with the set professional standards when they want to get enrolled in a new country.
- It comes with stations (clinical scripts).
- Each station is timed (usually 10–15 minutes).
- Communication, clinical decision-making, and clinical skills are what nurses are judged on.
For example, the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ), the UK (NMC), and Australia (AHPRA) are the ones who use the OSCE to make sure that nurses are safe and competent to practice.
OSCE Test Format (2025 Update)
The examination is broken down into several stations, with each one focusing on skills.
- Common OSCE Stations Include
- Case Assessment (history taking, physical assessment)
- Clinical Skills (IV insertion, crack dressing, drug administration)
- Communication (explaining procedures, handling concerns, cooperation)
- exigency scripts (CPR, handling deteriorating cases)
- Professionalism and Ethics
Who Needs to Take the OSCE?
You will be required to take the OSCE test if you are
- An internationally good nurse (IQN) who is seeking enrollment in New Zealand.
- A nurse who wants to migrate to the UK, Australia, or Ireland for practice.
- It is a condition by the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) that the candidate take the OSCE after passing the IQN Theoretical Examination.
OSCE Training for Nurses in India
A large number of transnational nurses choose to prepare in India prior to their OSCE challenge overseas.
- The cost varies from ₹ 50,000 to ₹ 150,000, dependent on the center.
- Duration – 4 to 12 weeks, depending on the intensity.
- laboratories—mock OSCE labs, practice sessions, and one-on-one coaching.
Tip: Make sure the training center you choose is always on top of the practice session, providing you with up-to-date OSCE practice grounded on the New Zealand/UK test guidelines of 2025.
OSCE test fees (2025)
The price of the examination varies with the location where you do it:
- New Zealand: Approximately NZD $4,000–$5,000
- UK (NMC OSCE): £794 (one-time attempt)
- India (only training) ₹ 50,000 (coaching fees, not exam fees)
It is always wise to verify the expense with the official Nursing Council website.
Common miscalculations nurses make in the OSCE
- Poor timing of stations
- Weak performance
- Weak communication skills with cases
- Forget to do hand hygiene and safety protocols
- Not rehearsing enough with mock OSCE scripts
Result: Get as close to actual test conditions as possible by practicing with mock stations and time limits.
How to Prepare for the OSCE test (2025 companion)
Step 1: Understand the test design from NCNZ/NMC.
Step 2: Get an OSCE training center to help you prepare.
Step 3: Practice sample questions and scripts
Step 4: Improve communication & presentation skills
Step 5: Mock OSCE tests under test situations
OSCE Sample Questions for Nurses (with Answers PDF)
Most OSCE training centers provide practice questions and answers. These generally cover
- Case admission & discharge
- drug computation & administration
- CPR and exigency protocols
- Case communication scripts
There is a free OSCE sample question PDF (2025 version) that can be downloaded from certified training providers.
Final studies
The OSCE for nurses in 2025 is an essential step for those who intend to practice in New Zealand or other transnational destinations. With adequate training, medication, and coffers, you will be able to pass it on your first try.
Initially, select a reliable OSCE training center, practice with sample questions, and remain consistent with the 2025 test format.
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