RCSI OSCE stations
The RCSI OSCE has 14 stations, and each one lasts 10 minutes. Every station assesses different competencies, so you meet a spread of clinical and communication tasks rather than one repeated skill. This page lists the topic families RCSI publishes. For the wider test, read the RCSI OSCE overview.
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) →What happens inside a station
A descriptor sheet is displayed outside and inside each station. You can look at it during the station. Some stations carry extra detail inside the room.
RCSI does not state a separate reading block in what we read, so do not count on structured reading time outside the door. When the 10 minutes end, the station ends, finished or not.
Some stations use a mannequin. An assessor may act as the patient, a relative or a member of staff. Treat the assessor as that person.
Topic families RCSI lists
RCSI lists current examples under each family and says any reference may appear in any station. Treat the lists as a guide, not a limit.
- Chronic disease management, such as angina, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, stroke, type 2 diabetes, asthma and COPD.
- Death and dying, including palliative care, end of life and care after death.
- Fundamentals of care, such as falls, nutrition screening with MUST, skin and pressure areas, urinary elimination and wound dressing with ANTT.
- The nursing process in the acute situation, such as type 1 diabetes, neurovascular assessment, delirium, DVT, acute urinary tract infection, stoma and post-operative bleeding.
- Older person care, including deconditioning, dementia and frailty.
- Safeguarding and related matters, such as a next-of-kin complaint or open disclosure.
How stations are marked
For each competency, the assessor records competent or incompetent. You need competent in every competency at every station. RCSI says its OSCEs change from test to test, the bank is large and new stations are added several times a year.
Practising documentation is recommended by RCSI, so rehearse writing as well as speaking. Our preparation page covers reading and practice, and what an OSCE is explains the general format.
Common questions
How many stations are in the RCSI OSCE?
There are 14 stations.
How long is each RCSI OSCE station?
Each station lasts 10 minutes. When time is up, it ends even if you are not finished.
Will my station be the same as a sample station?
No promise either way. RCSI says OSCEs change from test to test and new stations are added several times a year.
Can I look at the task during the station?
Yes. A descriptor sheet is displayed outside and inside each station and can be read during the station.
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.