WESolutions
So, you are all set for your exciting nursing journey in the UK. That feeling of starting fresh in a new country and a new healthcare system is truly special. The UK offers excellent clinical exposure, career growth, and global recognition for nurses.
Before you begin applying for nursing jobs, there are some important professional steps to complete. One of the most important is registering with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). As part of this process, international nurses must pass the CBT exam for nurses, also known as the CBT medical test.
In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about the CBT exam for nurses, including eligibility, requirements, syllabus, preparation tips, format, and what happens after you pass.
What is the CBT Exam for Nurses?
Many candidates ask, What is the CBT exam for nurses, and what does the CBT test full form in medical actually mean?
The CBT test, in medicine, is a computer-based test. It is the first part of the NMC Test of Competence (ToC) for internationally trained nurses who wish to register and work in the UK.
The NMC Test of Competence has two parts:
- Part 1: CBT exam for nurses (Computer-Based Test)
- Part 2: OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination)
The CBT medical test checks your theoretical nursing knowledge, while the OSCE assesses your practical clinical skills after you arrive in the UK.
Why is the CBT Exam Important for Nurses?
The CBT exam for nurses proves to the NMC that you have the correct level of clinical knowledge to practise safely in the UK healthcare system. It ensures that international nurses meet the same professional standards as UK-trained nurses.
Passing the CBT medical test qualifies you to move forward with your NMC registration and eventually apply for nursing jobs in the UK. Without passing this exam, your NMC application cannot progress.
CBT Exam Eligibility Criteria
The CBT exam eligibility criteria apply to:
- All internationally trained nurses outside the UK
- Nurses returning to UK practice after a long break
- Nurses whose previous NMC registration has lapsed
Some European qualified nurses may be exempt depending on recognition rules, but most overseas nurses must complete the CBT exam for nurses.
CBT Exam Requirements
The key requirements for the CBT exam include:
- A valid passport
- An active NMC online account
- Completed NMC eligibility assessment
- Email confirmation from NMC authorising you to book the CBT exam
- Payment of the CBT exam fee
Once these CBT exam requirements are met, you can proceed to the booking stage.
NMC CBT Syllabus for Nurses
Based on real candidate feedback and current NMC guidance, the CBT medical test syllabus includes:
- Professional values
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Nursing practice and clinical decision making
- Leadership, management and teamwork
- Skills specific to your field of nursing
The CBT exam for nurses focuses on safe patient care and UK professional nursing standards.
CBT Exam Preparation Tips
Preparing for the CBT medical test properly increases your chances of passing on the first attempt. Helpful tips include:
- Revise UK nursing guidelines and infection control standards
- Daily practice of numeracy questions
- Regularly attempt mock exams
- Study professional values and patient safety topics
- Use official Pearson Vue practice tests
At WESolutions, we also provide CBT exam preparation support, including study materials, mock tests, and expert guidance.
How to Apply for the CBT Exam for Nurses?
Here is how to apply for the CBT exam for nurses step by step:
- Create an online account on the NMC website
- Complete your eligibility assessment
- Receive your CBT authorisation email from NMC
- Book your CBT medical test on the Pearson Vue website
- Choose your nearest test centre
- Pay the CBT exam fee
- Attend the exam on your selected date
If you have not yet received your NMC authorisation, you must wait before booking. The process can be confusing and, at times, daunting – precisely why WESolutions is here to help with your application and preparations so that you can be your most confident self when taking the exam.
CBT Exam Format and Structure
The CBT exam for nurses has two parts:
Part A: Numeracy Test
- 15 calculation-based questions
- One number answers
- Time allowed: 30 minutes
Part B: Clinical Test
- 100 multiple-choice questions
- Nursing theory and clinical scenarios
- Time allowed: 2.5 hours
Total exam duration is 3 hours.
Post CBT Exam Process
Once you complete your CBT medical test, your result is available:
- Immediately after the exam at the test centre
- Inside your Pearson Vue account within 48 hours
If you pass both parts, your CBT result is added to your NMC profile. You must then complete your OSCE in the UK within two years of passing the CBT.
Once both CBT and OSCE are passed, your Test of Competence is valid for five years.
Advantages Of Computer-Based Test (CBT)
The key benefits of the CBT exam for nurses include:
- You can take the CBT from your home country
- Quick results and fast processing
- Objective and standardised assessment
- Recognised across all UK nursing employers
- Helps speed up NMC registration
The CBT medical test ensures fairness and efficiency for international nurses worldwide.
Types Of Computer-Based Test (CBT)
The CBT exam for nurses has different versions based on your field of practice:
- Adult Nurse: RNA
- Mental Health Nurse: RNMH
- Learning Disabilities Nurse: RNLD
- Children’s Nurse: RNC
For example, if you are applying as an Adult Nurse, you must choose:
- RNA 2021 Adult Nurse
- Part A Numeracy
- Part B Clinical
Choosing the correct code is a vital CBT exam requirement. Selecting the wrong exam means your result may be rejected.
What Happens If You Fail the CBT?
If you do not pass the CBT exam for nurses on your first attempt, you can retake it.
- Maximum attempts allowed: 3
- Minimum waiting period between attempts: 10 days
- Re-sit fees apply
If you fail all three attempts, your NMC application closes, and you must restart the entire process.
How Much Does the CBT Exam Cost in 2026?
The current CBT medical test fee is:
- Full CBT exam: £83
- Part A only: £50
- Part B only: £70
Fees are paid directly to Pearson Vue during booking.
Final Thoughts
Passing the CBT exam for nurses is your first official step toward working as a registered nurse in the UK. It proves your clinical knowledge, supports your NMC registration, and opens the door to UK nursing careers.
At WESolutions, we work closely with international nurses throughout the entire journey. From CBT support and NMC registration to job placement and UK relocation, we ensure your transition into the UK workforce is smooth and stress-free.
If you need help with:
- CBT exam booking
- CBT preparation
- NMC registration
- Nursing jobs in the UK
- Relocation support
Our specialist nursing recruiters are always happy to guide you.
If you need any further guidance, please
