RCSI OSCE for overseas nurses in Ireland

Who sits the RCSI OSCE

You sit it if your NMBI decision letter for the General Nurses Division says a compensation measure is needed and names the RCSI aptitude test. The letter must still be in date.

The test has two parts. Part 1 is a multiple-choice theory paper. You must pass it before you can book Part 2, the OSCE. Our page on the NMBI aptitude test explains both parts and the fee.

How the practical part runs

There are 14 stations. Each lasts 10 minutes and tests different competencies. A descriptor sheet is displayed outside and inside every station, and you can read it during the station. When time is up, the station ends even if you are not finished.

Assessors are experienced nurses with a postgraduate qualification, trained by RCSI. Some stations use a mannequin. An assessor may play the patient, a relative or a member of staff.

The standard is a newly qualified Irish registered general nurse, based on the NMBI education standards for nurse registration. See the stations page for the topic families.

How it is marked

For each competency at each station, the assessor decides competent or incompetent. To pass the practical, you must be competent in every competency at every station. That is a strict rule, so steady practice across all topics matters more than being brilliant at a few.

If you fail the OSCE at the first attempt, you resit only the stations you failed. RCSI recommends leaving at least two weeks before the final attempt. For the figures RCSI gives, see the pass rate page.

Where to go next

• RCSI OSCE stations: the 14 stations and the topics that can come up.
• RCSI OSCE preparation: reading, documentation and practice.
• NMBI aptitude test and fees: both parts and EUR 2,800.
• Pass rate: what RCSI says about first and second attempts.
• Our pricing if you want to practise with an AI patient.
• Working towards New Zealand instead? See the New Zealand nursing OSCE.

More on this exam

• RCSI OSCE stations
• RCSI OSCE preparation
• NMBI aptitude test and fees
• RCSI OSCE pass rate

Common questions

Is the RCSI OSCE the same as the NMBI aptitude test?

Not quite. The aptitude test has two parts. Part 1 is a theory paper and Part 2 is the OSCE. People often use RCSI OSCE for the practical part only.

How many stations are in the RCSI OSCE?

14 stations, each lasting 10 minutes.

How many attempts do I get?

Two per part. After a first OSCE fail, only the failed stations are resat.

Do I have to pass every station?

You must be competent in every competency at every station to pass the practical.

Where is the RCSI OSCE held?

At the Smurfit Building, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9.