FillThe Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is a critical step for internationally qualified nurses seeking registration in Australia. In 2025, AHPRA has made significant changes to the registration process. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Major 2025 Update: Some Nurses Can Skip the OSCE!
Effective April 2025, nurses registered in comparable countries (UK, Ireland, Canada, USA, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong) with 1,800+ hours of experience since 2017 may qualify for direct registration without NCLEX or OSCE exams.
Who Still Needs to Take the OSCE?
The OSCE exam is still required for nurses who:
- Completed nursing qualifications outside of "comparable countries"
- Graduated from countries in Africa, Asia (including India), Latin America, and others
- Don't have 1,800 hours of practice in a comparable country
- Are pursuing the Stream B registration pathway
For Indian Nursing Graduates
If you have completed your nursing qualification in India, you will need to pass both the NCLEX-RN (MCQ exam) and OSCE to register as an RN in Australia. The FillCare PCW pathway allows you to work in Australia while preparing for these exams.
OSCE Exam Structure
The OSCE consists of 10 clinical stations designed to test your competency against the NMBA Registered Nurse Standards for Practice.
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Stations | 10 clinical scenarios |
| Time per Station | 10 minutes (2 min reading + 8 min performance) |
| Total Duration | 3 - 3.5 hours |
| Format | In-person only |
| Locations | Adelaide (SA) and Melbourne (VIC) only |
| Fee | $4,000 AUD |
| Results | Within 8 weeks |
What the 10 Stations Assess
Vital signs, health history
Safe drug handling
Wound care, catheterization
Patient education, handover
Deteriorating patient
Ethics, documentation
De-escalation, assessment
Assessment, intervention
Hand hygiene, PPE
Prioritization, delegation
Key Changes in 2025
1. Faster Processing Times
AHPRA has reduced wait times from 9-12 months down to 1-6 months for registration processing. This means you can start working as an RN much sooner after passing your exams.
2. New Stream A Pathway
Nurses from comparable countries (UK, Ireland, Canada, USA, NZ, Singapore, Hong Kong) with adequate experience can skip the OSCE entirely under the new Stream A pathway.
3. Exam Availability
OSCE exams are now available at two locations:
- Adelaide Health Simulation Lab - South Australia
- Melbourne - Victoria
OSCE Preparation Tips
Tip 1: Study the AHPRA OSCE Handbook
Download and thoroughly review the official AHPRA OSCE handbook. It contains detailed information about each station type, marking criteria, and expected competencies.
Tip 2: Practice with Mock Exams
The best preparation is simulating real exam conditions. Practice with timed scenarios, ideally with a mentor or preparation course that provides feedback.
Tip 3: Focus on Communication
Many candidates fail due to poor communication, not clinical skills. Practice introducing yourself, explaining procedures, and confirming patient understanding.
Tip 4: Know Australian Standards
The OSCE tests against NMBA Australian standards, which may differ from your home country. Study infection control protocols, medication rights, and documentation requirements specific to Australia.
Tip 5: Time Management
With only 8 minutes per station, time management is crucial. Practice completing tasks within time limits and prioritizing essential actions.
Recommended Preparation Courses
FillCare partners with trusted OSCE preparation providers:
| Provider | Course Type | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| NETA | OSCE All Inclusive | $2,500 AUD |
| AuRNPathway | Full OSCE Review | $2,999 AUD |
| IHM Australia | 2-Week Intensive | Contact for pricing |
Before vs After the OSCE
Requirements Before Taking OSCE:
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam first (OSCE comes second)
- Complete AHPRA application and receive eligibility confirmation
- Book exam through AHPRA portal
- Pay $4,000 AUD exam fee
After Passing the OSCE:
- Results released within 8 weeks
- Apply for full AHPRA registration
- Receive registration number
- Eligible to work as Registered Nurse in Australia
Rescheduling & Retakes
Rescheduling Policy
Contact the IQNM exams team at IQNMexams@ahpra.gov.au at least 72 hours (3 full business days) before your scheduled exam if you need to reschedule.
If you don't pass the OSCE:
- You can retake the exam
- Full fee applies for each attempt
- Review your results to understand areas for improvement
- Consider additional preparation courses before retaking
The FillCare PCW Pathway Advantage
Many nurses struggle to afford the $4,000 OSCE fee plus preparation courses while not working. The FillCare PCW-to-RN pathway solves this:
- Work as PCW immediately - Earn competitive Australian wages while preparing
- Study in Australia - Better access to preparation courses and exam locations
- Employer support - Some employers fund exam fees as part of retention
- No upfront OSCE cost - Take the exam when you're financially ready
Start Earning While You Prepare for OSCE
Work as a PCW in Australia and take your OSCE when you're ready.
Apply for PCW Pathway