WANT TO BE A NURSE IN UK

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Nursing Jobs in the UK (2025)

📌 Introduction

The UK remains one of the best destinations for nurses due to career growth, competitive salaries, and access to world-class healthcare. However, recent changes mean that many employers no longer provide sponsorship for international nurses. Instead, nurses must pay for their OSCE exam, travel, and accommodation before securing employment.

This guide covers eligibility, NMC registration, exams, job search, and visa application to help you succeed.

✅ Why Work as a Nurse in the UK?

• High salaries (£25,000 – £40,000 per year)
• Opportunities for career progression
• Permanent residency (ILR) after 5 years
• Access to one of the world’s best healthcare systems

📝 Step 1: Check Nursing Eligibility for the UK

• Recognized nursing degree (BSc Nursing, Diploma in Nursing, or equivalent)
• Active nursing license in your home country
• Pass the NMC’s CBT & OSCE exams
• Obtain your NMC PIN before most employers will consider hiring you

📌 Important Update: Many UK employers now prefer nurses who already have an NMC PIN.

📂 Step 2: Pass the English Language Test (IELTS/OET)

🔹 IELTS Requirements:

• Overall Score: 7.0
• Speaking, Listening, Reading: 7.0
• Writing: 6.5

🔹 OET Requirements:

• Overall Grade: B
• Speaking, Listening, Reading: B
• Writing: C+

📝 Step 3: Apply for NMCN Verification (For Nigerian Nurses)

Nigerian nurses must complete verification with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) before proceeding with NMC UK registration.

🔹 NMCN Verification Requirements:

• Valid Nursing License
• Certificate of Registration
• Certificate of Good Standing
• Payment of NMCN Verification Fee

📌 NMCN Verification Process:

1. Visit the NMCN portal (www.nmcn.gov.ng)
2. Apply for verification and pay the required fee
3. NMCN will send verification documents to NMC UK

💰 NMCN Verification Fee (2025):

• ₦[Updated Fee] (Check NMCN website for current fee)

📝 Step 4: Register with the UK NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council)

🔹 Required Documents:

• Valid Passport
• Nursing Degree Certificate
• Nursing License from Home Country
• English Test Certificate (IELTS/OET)
• Work Experience Certificate

📌 NMC Registration Process:

1. Create an NMC account and submit your documents.
2. Pass the CBT Exam (Computer-Based Test).
3. Receive NMC Decision Letter (approval to take OSCE in the UK).

💰 Fees:

• NMC Registration Fee: £140
• CBT Exam Fee: £83

📝 Step 5: Travel to the UK & Pass the OSCE Exam

Once you pass the CBT, you must travel to the UK at your own expense to complete the OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination).

🔹 OSCE Exam Details:

• Fee: £794
• Format: Practical exam with 6 nursing stations
• Pass Rate: 90%+ (most candidates pass after employer training)

📌 Important Update: Many UK employers do not cover OSCE fees or relocation costs.

💼 Step 6: Apply for Nursing Jobs in the UK

🔹 Best Websites to Find Nursing Jobs:

• NHS Jobs Portal
• Trac Jobs
• Indeed UK
• LinkedIn Jobs

📑 Step 7: Apply for a UK Work Visa (Health and Care Visa)

🔹 UK Work Visa Requirements:

• Job offer from an NHS or UK-approved hospital
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from employer
• IELTS/OET Certificate
• NMC PIN

💰 UK Nursing Salary & Benefits

🔹 Average Nurse Salaries in the UK (2025)

• Band 5 Nurse (Entry Level): £25,000 – £30,000 per year
• Band 6 Nurse (Experienced): £32,000 – £40,000 per year

📌 Final Tips for Getting a Nursing Job in the UK

• Save money for your OSCE and relocation costs
• Apply only after getting your NMC PIN
• Avoid scams! UK hospitals never charge for job offers

📝 Conclusion

With new policies, international nurses must self-fund their OSCE and relocation before securing UK jobs. However, once you get your NMC PIN, you’ll have better job opportunities with NHS hospitals and private employers.

Do you have any questions? Drop them in the comments below!