We have put together the answers to some frequently asked questions about the Oxford Brookes University's processes and about the Nursing Midwifery Council’s (NMC) Test of Competence.
How can I prepare for my OSCE?
We have a range of downloads that will aid and support your OSCE preparation available on our support page. We highly recommend you take the time to read these.
I have a disability. Can the competence test centre accommodate my needs?
Our staff are committed to ensuring impartiality and equality of opportunity in the delivery of our services. Our premises are wheelchair accessible, and the competence test centre will also act on NMC guidance regarding this. Special adjustments are made for candidates with disabilities, or for those registered as dyslexic or with other additional needs. Candidates are asked to declare their needs for reasonable adjustments when booking their OSCE, for which they will be required to produce supporting evidence. The academic lead/manager will seek advice on the reasonable adjustments possible for the candidate. Simple changes such as lowering beds, accommodating the need to sit or stand, or the increased need for toilet breaks during pregnancy can easily be arranged when the competence test centre is notified in advance.
Candidates who need to access medical devices during the OSCE can be accommodated with advance notification prior to booking. The competence test centre will not allow the required level of competence to be reduced because of a disability. The standard or competence itself is not subject to a reasonable adjustment.
The request for reasonable adjustments must be made before the date of the OSCE examination, by contacting the test delivery centre. Candidates with additional needs must declare them via the reasonable adjustments form that will be emailed to candidates once the competence test centre has been notified by the candidate and a booking made. Reasonable adjustments are offered within the scope of the Equality Act 2010.
A reasonable adjustment will allow for a candidate to evidence during their assessment nursing care that:
- remains effective and does not result in altered patient care
- is accepted within professional nursing practices
- enables the candidate to demonstrate competence
- will not place the candidate or patient at risk of harm by injury or illness
Tthe reasonable adjustment process found on page 21 of the OSCE Candidate Handbook.
When do I book my exam?
You can register for the OSCE stage of the Overseas registration process once you have received confirmation from the NMC that you are eligible to sit the Test of Competence. The NMC will confirm with us your eligibility to take the OSCE.
We are only able to book tests for candidates that have received either a decision letter or Test of Competence Invitation Letter from NMC.
What happens next?
Once the candidate enters our process they will receive a link and password to pay, following this a link to our online booking service will be sent. The candidate chooses a date for the test which best suits them. They will have access to all our online resources following payment.
How many test days are there?
The test centre is able to run OSCEs five days a week. Dates are available throughout the year and can be booked through emailing the bookings team on ctc@brookes.ac.uk, if you are an organisation please use trustbookings@brookes.ac.uk.
Please note, test dates are closed 14 days in advance to allow sufficient time for candidates to prepare.
How much does each attempt cost?
A 1st attempt costs £794.
2nd and 3rd attempt costs are dependent on the number of stations needing to be resat; a resit consisting of 1-7 stations costs £397 and a resit consisting of 8-10 stations costs £794.
Can I change my test date?
Candidates can change or reschedule their exam date however it is important to note our cancellation and rescheduling policy and take into account those timescales. Should you wish to cancel or reschedule your exam please email ctc@brookes.ac.uk.
When should I arrive and what time is my exam?
Please be aware that candidates should arrive at least 30 minutes prior to their exam as it allows for registration. The time on your booking or ticket confirmation will list the time you should arrive by for registration. Your OSCE time will be visible under additional information. If for any reason you are going to be late for your OSCE, please do let us know by emailing in to us at ctc@brookes.ac.uk.
Can I still take the OSCE if I do not have all my original documents with me?
Yes. The only document we as the test centre need to check for you to undertake your OSCE is your passport. Please make sure to bring this with you for every attempt. We encourage all candidates to bring the necessary documentation to their OSCE but you will be able to arrange with the NMC if they need to check any outstanding documentation after your OSCE.
For any queries about the ID documents, please contact the NMC by emailing ID.checks@nmc-org.uk.