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English language assessment

Applicants must complete the academic version of the IELTS test and achieve an overall average score of 7.0 (out of a possible 9) comprised of:

1. At least 7 in the listening and reading sections
2. At least 7 in the writing and speaking sections

You can find information regarding where you can complete a test and the cost at http://www.ielts.org

This test is compulsory, which means you must take it before you start to complete your Application form. The NMC will not accept scores lower than those set out above.

Once you have received your results and you have gained at least a score of 7.0 you should contact the NMC for an application pack.

We recommend that you call for the initial application pack as email requests are not responded to promptly.

To obtain the application pack please call:

From NZ: 0044 207 333 6600
From Aus: 001144 207 333 6600

You will need to provide:

• Your title (e.g. Mr, Mrs, Ms, etc)
• First Name and Surname (family name)
• Date of Birth
• Sex
• Nationality
• Country of Training
• Current address
• Which part of the register would you like to enter (e.g. General Nursing / Mental Health, Childrens Nurse / Midwife etc) - see guide below

Please only apply to the parts of the register that correspond with your qualifications. General Nurses applying for part one will not be considered for any other parts of the register, unless you have undertaken specific additional training in that clinical area to equal a total of not less than 18 months in duration.

Unfortunately the NMC only accepts applications from holders of first level qualifications. They will not be able to accept applications from any of the following or equivalent qualifications:

• Enrolled Nurse Licensed Practical Nurse
• Vocational Nurse Community Nurse
• State Certified Nurse Staff Nurse (South Africa)
• Mother Craft Nurse Nursery Nurse

Once you have requested the application pack, the NMC will send you a form (Application Request Sheet) to be completed and returned, you must include your IELTS results along with your initial application fee of £140 (British Pounds Sterling). You will then receive your personalised application form.

Please note: this is non-refundable. We strongly recommend you send any communication by registered mail.

Once you have received your application form from the NMC, please complete and return to the NMC with the required documents, they will respond with the following outcomes:

• Accepted (this will only occur if you undertook your initial training within the UK) or (see below)
• Will need to undertake further education in the UK (Overseas Nursing Program, please see below)
• Will need to undertake a period of supervised practice in the UK (please see below)
• Will need to obtain further information about your education and/or practice, or
• Rejected (reasons will be given)

Important Note: It is estimated that the NMC will take approximately 3-6 months to make a decision on your application. With this in mind, it would be advisable for you to await this decision prior to making any travel arrangements.