The Academy Behind Your Australian Registration

Dedicated Founders Who Put Nurses First

Baljinder Saroch

Marina Denton
Director of Education & Co-Founder
Our Values, Your Growth

Compassionate Learning

Excellence in Practice

Integrity and Trust
A Learning Experience That Feels Personal

Understanding the OSCE and the Registration Process
AHPRA uses a Streamed Pathway to assess internationally qualified nurses.
Stream A
You are in Stream A if your qualifications match Australian standards.
✔ You do not need to take the OBA or OSCE.
You only need to complete Orientation Part 1 and 2 before registration.
Stream B
You are in Stream B if your qualifications are not substantially equivalent.
✔ You must complete the OBA, which includes:
• NCLEX-RN (knowledge exam)
• OSCE (clinical exam)
After passing both exams and completing Orientation, you can apply for registration.
The OSCE is the Objective Structured Clinical Examination.
It’s a practical exam where you perform clinical tasks in simulated scenarios such as vital signs, medication safety, wound care, assessment, and communication.
You must take the OSCE if:
• You’re an IQNM (Internationally Qualified Nurse or Midwife)
• You’re on Stream B of AHPRA’s assessment pathway
• You have completed Orientation Part 1 and 2 and passed the NCLEX-RN
The OSCE is currently held in two locations:
• Adelaide Health Simulation Centre, South Australia
• RANZCOG, Melbourne
The OSCE has 10 stations.
Each station runs for 10 minutes and tests different clinical skills such as communication, assessment, safety checks, and hands-on procedures.
The exam typically covers:
• Communication with patients and the healthcare team
• Infection control and safety
• Medication administration
• Vital signs and clinical observations
• Wound care and mobility
• Professional documentation
• Clinical decision-making
You must:
• Meet the minimum standard in each competency area
• Pass enough stations overall
• Show safe, accurate, and ethical clinical practice
NGA supports you with:
• Structured preparation in organised tiers
• Qualified RN educators with OSCE knowledge
• Realistic practice scenarios and detailed feedback
• A supportive learning community to help build confidence
The OSCE fee is currently AUD $4,000 (set by AHPRA and may change).
This fee is paid directly to AHPRA when you book the exam.
Helpful preparation steps include:
• Practising real clinical scenarios
• Attending simulation training
• Reviewing NMBA standards and guidelines
• Using checklists and self-assessment tools
• Joining an OSCE preparation program for structured support
Yes. You can book another attempt.
AHPRA provides a performance report so you understand what to improve before resitting the exam.
Yes, unless you already meet AHPRA’s English evidence requirements.
Accepted tests include OET, IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL iBT, with specific scores needed for registration.
You’ll need:
• IQNM assessment outcome letter (Stream B)
• Valid ID
• Certificates for Orientation Part 1 and 2
• Payment of exam fees
Bring the following on exam day:
• Your AHPRA Stream B outcome letter
• Valid ID
• Orientation Part 1 and 2 certificates
• Proof of exam fee payment
