RCSI OSCE preparation
RCSI OSCE preparation starts with the reading RCSI itself lists, then moves to saying and writing care aloud under a 10-minute clock. RCSI says it does not endorse any preparation course, and its sample material is free on its site. This page sets out what to study, in what order. The RCSI OSCE overview explains the test.
Check his observations and weight against his discharge weight, then teach him how to look after himself, including daily weights, diet, medicines and when to seek help.
Free · no sign-up · uses your one free station
Open the full station (charts, voice, result letter) →Start with the standards RCSI names
The test is pitched at a newly qualified Irish registered general nurse. It follows the NMBI standards for nurse registration education programmes. The marking uses the NMBI domains of competence and the NMBI Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics.
- Read the NMBI Code.
- Learn the Irish early warning system, INEWS, from the Department of Health INEWS guideline summary, which RCSI lists.
- Learn the HSE ISBAR tool for escalation. RCSI also links a modified ISBAR document in its minimum reading, so read that one on the RCSI site.
- RCSI says its sepsis OSCE stations use the HSE September 2025 adult sepsis screening tool from 24 January 2026.
Cover the topic families, not favourites
RCSI lists reading headings such as observations, pain, medication preparation and dosage calculation, infection prevention, respiratory, renal, neurological and nutrition. Any reference may appear in any station. See the stations page for the families.
Because you must be competent in every competency at every station, one weak area can cost the whole attempt. Spread your time evenly.
Practise the paperwork and the clock
RCSI recommends practising the documentation used at the OSCEs. Write a note after every practice, even a rough one.
Keep to 10 minutes. An AI patient station is free to try, with no sign-up. Our feedback is an estimate and is no substitute for RCSI's own material. See pricing if you want more stations.
Using the gap before a repeat attempt
After a first-attempt fail, only the failed stations are resat. RCSI recommends at least two weeks before the final attempt. Use that time on the stations you failed rather than rereading everything. Fees and attempt limits are on the NMBI aptitude test page.
Common questions
What should I read for the RCSI OSCE?
Start with the RCSI preparation page, the NMBI Code, the INEWS guideline summary and the HSE ISBAR tool, then the clinical headings RCSI lists.
Does RCSI recommend a preparation course?
No. RCSI says it does not endorse any preparation course.
Should I practise writing as well as speaking?
Yes. RCSI recommends practising the documentation used at the OSCEs.
How long should I wait before the final attempt?
RCSI recommends at least two weeks.
Practise every day until it feels routine.
One pass opens every exam on the site, including the RCSI OSCE. From US$25 for 7 days, with no automatic renewal.
See passesSources
Checked 2026-11-06. Fees and rules change, so confirm them with the regulator before you book.