If you’re an international nurse with aspirations to practice in New Zealand, the process may seem overwhelming at first. However, one of the most critical steps to becoming a fully licensed nurse in New Zealand is the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). This exam ensures that foreign-trained nurses have the clinical skills, cultural competence, and judgment necessary to provide safe, effective care within New Zealand’s healthcare system. In this blog, we will walk you through everything you need to know about OSCE—why it’s important, what you can expect, how to prepare, and the costs involved in 2025.
What is OSCE?
The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is a practical, in-person exam designed to assess the clinical competence of international nurses. Unlike theoretical exams that test your knowledge, OSCE is aimed at evaluating how well you apply your nursing skills in a real-world, simulated clinical environment.
The exam consists of 10 stations, each designed to assess a different aspect of nursing practice, including clinical tasks, decision-making under pressure, patient care, and communication skills. The goal is to ensure that you’re ready to meet New Zealand’s healthcare standards before you begin practicing as a nurse in the country.
OSCE plays a vital role in New Zealand’s nursing registration process, ensuring that foreign-trained nurses meet the same clinical competence standards as locally-trained nurses. It serves as a gateway for international nurses to demonstrate their ability to deliver safe, high-quality care in New Zealand’s diverse healthcare system.
Why OSCE is Crucial for International Nurses
The OSCE is more than just a practical exam—it’s a fundamental requirement for international nurses wanting to practice in New Zealand. Here’s why it is so crucial:
Ensures Safe Practice in New Zealand’s Healthcare System
The New Zealand Nursing Council (NCNZ) requires OSCE to ensure that international nurses are competent, confident, and prepared to provide high-quality care that meets New Zealand’s standards.
Tests Clinical Competence
OSCE assesses your ability to perform core nursing tasks, make decisions in clinical situations, and demonstrate a solid understanding of New Zealand’s healthcare policies and patient safety protocols.
Assesses Cultural Competence
Nursing in New Zealand is not just about clinical skills. It also requires a deep understanding of cultural safety, which is integral to New Zealand’s healthcare practices. OSCE will test your ability to work with patients from diverse backgrounds, ensuring you can provide culturally sensitive care.
Aligns with New Zealand’s Nursing Standards
OSCE helps ensure that international nurses understand and can apply New Zealand-specific nursing practices, protocols, and patient safety guidelines. Passing OSCE demonstrates your readiness to work in a healthcare system that prioritizes patient safety, cultural competency, and high-quality care.
What to Expect: OSCE Structure and Format
OSCE consists of 10 stations, and each station focuses on a different aspect of nursing practice. The exam typically takes 2 hours, with each station lasting 12 minutes. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
- 2 minutes to read the instructions for each station.
- 8 minutes to perform the required task or demonstrate the clinical skill.
- 2 minutes to transition to the next station.
During the exam, you will be evaluated on a variety of core nursing skills, including:
- Basic Patient Assessments: Performing vital sign measurements, physical assessments, and identifying patient conditions.
- Medication Administration: Administering medications safely and in accordance with protocols.
- Emergency Scenarios: Responding to simulated medical emergencies, such as administering CPR or managing a crisis.
- Clinical Decision-Making: Making decisions about patient care, prioritizing tasks, and applying critical thinking in real-time situations.
- Communication Skills: Explaining procedures to patients, addressing their concerns, and effectively communicating with the healthcare team.
Each station is designed to test your clinical competence, communication abilities, and how well you follow established protocols. You will also need to manage your time effectively, as each station is strictly timed.
OSCE Costs in 2025
Understanding the costs associated with the OSCE is essential for international nurses planning to take the exam in 2025. Here’s a breakdown of the key costs:
OSCE Registration Fee
The cost of registering for the OSCE clinical examination is NZD 3,000. This fee covers the exam itself, including all 10 stations.
Preparation Course Costs
There are several orientation and preparation courses available to help you prepare for OSCE. For example, the Nurse Maude Simulation & Assessment Centre in Christchurch offers a 2-day preparation course designed to help you get familiar with the exam format and practice essential skills. This preparation course typically costs around NZD 500.
Resit Fee
If you don’t pass OSCE on your first attempt, you are allowed to resit the exam up to two more times. The cost of resitting the exam is NZD 3,000.
Additional Costs
You will also need to budget for:
- Travel and Accommodation: Depending on where you are located, you’ll need to travel to New Zealand for the exam. Costs will vary based on your location and the duration of your stay.
- Visa and Immigration Fees: Don’t forget to account for the costs of obtaining the necessary visa to enter New Zealand, if you’re not already residing there.
- Study Materials: Consider the cost of books, online courses, or additional study resources to help you prepare.
Total Estimated Cost for OSCE in 2025
Here’s an estimate of the total costs you may need to budget for when taking the OSCE in 2025:
- OSCE Registration: NZD 3,000
- Preparation Course: NZD 500 (optional but recommended)
- Resit Fee: NZD 3,000 (if applicable)
- Travel and Accommodation: Varies depending on location
- Visa and Immigration Fees: Varies depending on nationality
Based on these fees, international nurses should expect to budget at least NZD 3,500 – NZD 5,000, excluding travel and visa costs. This estimate will give you a good starting point for financial planning.
How to Save on OSCE Costs
There are several ways to save on the costs of OSCE:
- Explore Cost-Effective Preparation: Look for free or low-cost resources available online, such as videos or practice exams. You may also find free courses offered by New Zealand’s Nursing Council on culturally safe nursing practices and the Treaty of Waitangi.
- Budget Travel and Accommodation: To reduce travel and accommodation costs, consider booking your flight and stay in advance. Look for budget accommodations near the exam venue or consider sharing lodging with fellow nurses to cut costs.
- Financial Assistance: Investigate any available financial aid, scholarships, or loan programs for international nurses. Some organizations or nursing bodies may offer financial support or discounts for OSCE preparation.
What Happens After You Pass OSCE?
Once you pass the OSCE, the next steps involve:
- Submit Final Documentation: After passing the exam, submit the results, along with any other required documents, to the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ).
- Pay the Registration Fee: To complete your registration, you will need to pay the final registration fee, which is around NZD 550.
- Official Registration: Once your documentation is processed and your fees are paid, you will receive your official registration as either a Registered Nurse (RN) or Enrolled Nurse (EN) in New Zealand, and you’ll be legally able to practice in the country.
What If You Don’t Pass OSCE?
If you don’t pass OSCE on your first attempt, don’t worry—you can resit the exam up to two more times. The resit fee is NZD 3,000, and it’s important to review feedback, focus on weak areas, and practice with mock OSCEs to increase your chances of passing next time.
The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is a critical step for international nurses seeking to practice in New Zealand. By understanding the structure of the exam and the associated costs, you can better prepare financially and logistically for the process. With the right preparation and a solid understanding of New Zealand’s healthcare system, OSCE will be an opportunity to showcase your clinical and cultural competence, ultimately helping you to achieve your dream of becoming a registered nurse in New Zealand.
West Highlander Immigration
If you need further guidance or assistance, feel free to contact immigration consultants like West Highlander Immigration for personalized support throughout the OSCE and registration process.