Explained: Accepted English Language Tests by Nursing and Midwifery Council, UK

Nursing and Midwifery Council, UK (NMC) invites nurses, midwives and nursing associates to join nursing register in UK. One of their requirements of recruitment is to qualify for Internationally Accepted English Language Tests. 

Two language tests accepted are namely International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and Occupational English Test (OET). The test scores shall stay valid for a maximum of 2 years. 

IELTS

It is considered to be one of the most popular and globally accepted English language test. This examination aims to analyze the English language proficiency of candidates who aim to work or study in a place where English is used as a primary  medium of communication. 

Only paper based and computer based IELTS academic test delivered at test centres are accepted. The IELTS indicator test shall no more be accepted. 

Requisite Scores in IELTS 

Candidates are expected to achieve a minimum of below mentioned scores  

1. An overall score of 7 at least 

1. At least 6.5 in the writing section and at least 7 in the reading, listening and speaking sections 

Combining Test Scores 

The benefit of considering maximum of the scores earned across two sittings shall be given to candidates only when 

1. The tests are taken within a span of six months 

1. All four sections have been appeared by the candidate at the same time 

1. Scores earned in both the sittings are above 6.5, and 

1. Candidate earns at least 6.5 in writing section and at least 7 in the reading, listening and speaking sections in either of the two sittings 

OET

The exam is specifically designed to meet the English language standards need of the healthcare sector. It offers 12 versions of the test for different healthcare professions namely nurses, doctors, dentists, pharmacists, optometrists, podiatrists, occupational therapists, vets, speech pathologists, dieticians, physiotherapists, and radiographers.   

The test aims at assessing a healthcare professional’s abilities to communicate effectively while practicing in an English speaking environment to provide safe and effective care. 

Requisite Scores in OET

Examination certificates of those candidates shall be accepted which confirms 

1. Least grade of C+ in Writing section 

1. Least grade of B in reading, listening and speaking sections 

Combining Test Scores

The benefit of considering maximum of the scores earned across two sittings shall be given to candidates only when 

1. The tests are taken within a span of six months 

1. All four sections have been appeared by the candidate at the same time 

1. Grades scored in both the sittings are above C+, and 

1. Candidate earns at least C+ grade in writing section and at least B grade in the reading, listening and speaking sections in either of the two sittings. 

While submitting OET certificates as part of the application, the candidate must give permission to verify their results through their my OET account.