UK’s NMC Updates English Language Requirements for Nurses and Midwives

The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) in the UK has just approved two changes to their English language requirements. These OET changes will help make sure that language scores are reliable and fair for nurses and midwifery professionals applying for registration in the UK.

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When Will These Changes Be Effective?

There is no fixed date for the changes to be implemented, but it will be in January of 2023 or later.

What are the Changes?

Let’s take a closer look at the two changes:

1. Combining OET Scores – “Clubbing”

Currently, candidates can combine OET scores from two test sittings. All scores from both tests should be C+ or higher to be eligible for clubbing. The final combined scores should be at least a C+ in writing, and a B in Listening, Reading, and Speaking.

With the new change, the NMC will accept combined OET scores if no sub-test is more than a half a grade lower than the required score. The combined scores will still need to be C+ for writing and B for Listening, Reading, and Speaking, but the individual test scores from both tests can be C for Writing and C+ for Listening, Reading, and Speaking to be eligible for clubbing. Use OET Calculator to learn more about grades and scores.

Example 1: Scores Eligible for Clubbing

Here’s an example of scores across two tests that meet the requirements for clubbing:

You can see that the required mark has been achieved in at least one of the two test sittings. No score is more than a half a grade below the required score. Even though neither test would provide an overall passing OET score by itself, both tests meet the requirements so that clubbing can be used. Using both sets of test scores, this candidate has passed.

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Example 2: Scores Not Eligible for Clubbing

Here is an example of scores across two tests that do not meet the requirements for clubbing:

You can see that this student scored a C in Listening during the second test. This score is more than one level lower than the required score of B, so the second test does not meet the requirements for clubbing.

How Much Time Do I Have Between Tests?

Another change to the rules for clubbing is that the NMC will extend the period for combining scores. Previously, the time period was 6 months, and the new rules have extended this to 12 months. This change will give students more time to prepare before retaking the test and give them more flexibility when scheduling their exam.

If you are currently working in the UK, the NMC will now accept supporting information from employers to demonstrate English language proficiency. Employers can provide this information if:

How Your UK Employer can Provide Evidence of Language Proficiency

If applicants meet these requirements, the applicant’s UK employer will be able to give evidence of English proficiency in a health and social care setting. This evidence will be based on the candidate’s interactions with people who use these services.

In order to gain English proficiency with this method, your UK manager will need to be an NMC registered professional. In addition, your evidence will also need to be signed by a more senior professional who is also NMC registered and working for your same employer. To ensure consistency, the NMC will create a standard form for employers to complete.

Good News for Nurses and Midwives

These changes will benefit you and provide greater flexibility as you apply for registration in the UK under OET for Nurses. If you are currently working in the UK, you now have more options to prove your English language proficiency.

For more information about the NMC changes, please visit the regulator’s website.