English test requirements by role
OET is healthcare-specific and often preferred by the NHS — but it isn't always accepted. Select your role to see exactly which test is accepted and the minimum score per component.
Set by the Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC)
NMC accepts IELTS Academic and OET (Nursing). Single sitting: IELTS Academic 7.0 in every component (7.0 overall); OET Grade B (350+) in all four sub-tests. A two-sitting combination within 12 months may be allowed for IELTS (no component below 6.5) — confirm the current rules on the NMC website before booking. Some sources indicate an OET Grade C+ (300+) Writing concession if the other three sub-tests reach Grade B, but this is subject to change — verify with the NMC before relying on it.
| Test | Listening | Reading | Writing | Speaking | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 | 7.0 overall |
| OET (Nursing) | B (350) | B (350) | B (350) | B (350) | — |
NMC registration normally satisfies the English requirement for the Health and Care Worker visa, so a separate visa English test is usually not needed.
Score thresholds change. Always confirm the current requirement on the official page linked above before booking a test. This guide is information, not immigration advice.
Is your country on a recognized pathway? Select where you trained to see how it affects your Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC) application.
The NMC uses one overseas route for every country: eligibility & qualification check, then the two-part Test of Competence (CBT + OSCE). There is no country-specific fast track — but your country can still change what evidence you need.
Nigeria: This is not on the majority English-speaking list, so you'll normally need IELTS or OET as shown above — even if your training was in English. Rules on what else counts as evidence vary; check the regulator's page.
Whatever your country, you can sit the CBT at home before travelling, so the clock only starts on the OSCE after you arrive in the UK.
Source: Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC) — pathways change, so confirm on the official site before you apply. This guide is information, not immigration advice.
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