How to Prepare for the Test
The OSCE is designed to assess your ability to competently apply your professional nursing or midwifery skills and knowledge in the UK. It is set at the level expected of nurses and midwives as they enter the profession (at the point of registration). This means you must show that you are capable of applying knowledge to care at the level expected of a newly registered nurse or midwife.
The Test of Competence is made up of ten stations, each lasting up to 20 minutes. Four stations will be scenario-based and relate to the holistic assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation stages of nursing and midwifery care. Four stations will be testing practical clinical skills. Two stations will assessing the candidate’s values and behaviours and evidence-based practice.
The OSCE tests your ability to apply knowledge to care rather than how well you can remember and recite facts. All of the test scenarios and any questions relate to current best practice and you should answer them in relation to published evidence and not according to local arrangements. During the Test of Competence, make sure that you read the station instructions carefully and do not be afraid to look at them again if you are unsure; You will not be penalised for this.
We have a range of downloads available that will aid and support your OSCE preparation. We highly recommend that you take the time to read the relevant Candidate Information Booklet below: