NMC CBT Exam 2026: Complete Guide for International Nurses
Everything you need to know about the NMC Computer Based Test. What it covers, how to book, pass mark, test centres in your country, and how to prepare effectively.
Updated June 2026
120 Questions
3hr 15min
Pearson VUE
What is the NMC CBT?
The NMC CBT (Computer Based Test) is a nursing knowledge exam set by the Nursing and Midwifery Council. It is the first clinical assessment international nurses must pass as part of the NMC registration process. The test assesses nursing knowledge and professional judgement relevant to working in the UK.
After passing the CBT, candidates move on to the OSCE (Observed Structured Clinical Examination), which is held in the UK and tests practical clinical skills. Only after passing both tests can a nurse achieve full NMC registration.
What does the NMC CBT cover?
The NMC CBT tests knowledge across four domains:
- Professional values - ethics, accountability, professional conduct, NMC Code of Practice
- Communication and interpersonal skills - patient communication, record keeping, escalation
- Nursing practice and decision making - clinical assessment, medicines management, care planning, anatomy and physiology
- Leadership, management and team working - delegation, supervision, working in multidisciplinary teams
Important: The CBT uses UK nursing practice standards. Answers are based on how nursing is practised in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, not your home country. Questions reference the NMC Code and UK clinical guidelines.
NMC CBT test centres worldwide (2026)
| Country | Cities | Provider |
|---|
| Nigeria | Lagos, Abuja | Pearson VUE |
| Philippines | Manila | Pearson VUE |
| India | Multiple cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore | Pearson VUE |
| Ghana | Accra | Pearson VUE |
| Kenya | Nairobi | Pearson VUE |
| Zimbabwe | Harare | Pearson VUE |
| Jamaica | Kingston | Pearson VUE |
| United Kingdom | Multiple cities | Pearson VUE |
How to book the NMC CBT
- Complete your NMC initial application and receive your NMC registration number
- The NMC emails you eligibility to book the CBT
- Book online at pearsonvue.com/nmc using your NMC registration number
- Choose your preferred test centre and date
- Pay the test centre fee (varies by country)
- Receive a confirmation email with your appointment details
Appointment availability: CBT slots in popular centres such as Lagos and Manila can book up 6 to 8 weeks in advance. Book as early as possible once you receive your eligibility confirmation from the NMC.
How to prepare for the NMC CBT
What resources to use
- VisaPath Pro has over 3,200 exam questions including dedicated NMC CBT practice questions in all four domains
- The NMC publishes a candidate handbook with example questions on its website
- Focus on the NMC Code of Conduct as many questions reference it directly
- Study UK medicines management and drug calculation practice
- Understand UK clinical escalation pathways (NEWS2, SBAR, SEPSIS protocols)
How long to study
Most candidates study for 4 to 12 weeks before sitting the CBT. If you have recent clinical experience from a high-income country with similar standards, 4 to 6 weeks may be sufficient. If you trained several years ago or in a different clinical environment, allow 8 to 12 weeks.
What happens after passing the NMC CBT?
After passing, your NMC application moves forward. The NMC will issue you a conditional offer of registration, which means you have passed the knowledge stage but must still complete the OSCE in the UK. You can use this conditional offer to apply for jobs and your Skilled Worker visa. The CBT pass is valid for 2 years.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I fail the NMC CBT?
You can resit the NMC CBT up to 4 times. If you do not pass within 4 attempts, you cannot resit without providing evidence of further training and development. After failing, you can book a resit with Pearson VUE, but there is typically a waiting period of at least 10 days between attempts.
Can I use a calculator in the NMC CBT?
Yes. A basic on-screen calculator is provided within the Pearson VUE testing software. You cannot bring your own calculator or any physical materials into the test room.
Is the NMC CBT the same as the OSCE?
No. They are two separate assessments. The CBT is a computer-based knowledge test that can be taken in your home country. The OSCE is a practical clinical skills exam that can only be taken in the UK at approved test centres. You must pass the CBT before you can proceed to the OSCE.
Do I need to pass the English test before the CBT?
You need to submit your English test result (OET or IELTS UKVI) as part of your NMC application before you can be given eligibility to sit the CBT. So yes, the English test must be passed and submitted first.
How soon can I sit OSCE after passing CBT?
Once your full NMC application is approved and you have a job offer with a UK employer, you can book your OSCE in the UK. Waiting times at NMC-approved OSCE centres vary but are typically 4 to 12 weeks from booking. Many nurses complete their OSCE within their first few months in the UK while working under supervision.
Practice NMC CBT questions on VisaPath Pro
Over 3,200 practice questions covering NMC CBT, OSCE preparation, OET, IELTS UKVI and the Life in the UK test. Detailed explanations for every answer.
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