NMBA provides update for IQNMs

07 Dec 2020

The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) has provided an update on the assessment of internationally qualified nurses and midwives (IQNMs).

The NMBA moved to a new assessment model for IQNMs earlier this year. The model includes a multiple-choice question (MCQ) exam and an objective structured clinical exam (OSCE) for candidates who hold relevant but not substantially equivalent qualifications.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused delays for candidates, with the providers of the MCQ exam and the OSCE closing their services temporarily. 

MCQ for registered nurses

The MCQ for registered nurses is the NCLEX-RN, which candidates can sit at Pearson Vue testing centres.  

Information about testing centres and the latest COVID-19 updates are available on the Pearson Vue website.  

OSCE for registered nurses 

As state border restrictions begin lifting, the NMBA anticipates that the first OSCE sitting dates for registered nurses will be confirmed soon. Candidates waiting to sit the OSCE will be contacted directly by Ahpra when the exam is available. 

Candidate handbooks for registered nurses undertaking the MCQ and OSCE are now available on the NMBA website.

MCQ for midwives

The NMBA has begun offering the MCQ for internationally qualified midwives. Candidates waiting to sit the MCQ will be contacted directly by Ahpra. 

Extension of bridging programs

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic affecting the availability and accessibility of courses, the NMBA and Ahpra can further extend the timelines for those candidates with a referral to a bridging program. 

Candidates who require a further extension of their referral to a bridging program should contact the Registration Officer named on their referral letter. 

More information and how to apply for registration in Australia 

More information on the IQNM assessment model is available on the NMBA website.