3 Steps to UK Overseas Nurse registration process.

Opportunities abound for Nigerian nurses to take advantage of to migrate to the United Kingdom, however most Nigeria nurses are most often laid back on the issue of migration, as they always expect some family member or friend to come “take them” out of the country.

The truth is that opportunities abound for nurses to migrate to different parts of the developed world than any other profession. The Asians have grabbed the opportunities with both hands and I would like to see more serious minded African  nurses do same.

The first step towards registering in the UK is to sit for the IELTS English test which can be taken in Nigeria and make at least 7 in the four testing bands.

Also, combining results not less than six months is now accepted. The test is nothing technical as it only assesses your ability to communicate in English. As English is our official language and Nigerians are taught from Nursery to University in English, this should not be a problem.  

Below is a copy of an IELTS certificate.

In the second step, one would be required to sit a computer based test (CBT), which assess general nursing knowledge in addition to laws and policies that guide healthcare delivery in the UK. This test is also not difficult and can be taken in various Pearson Vue centers in different countries. More information  about the test can be seen here

Lastly, having successfully taken the computer based test, the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) which is practical examination can only be taken within the UK. Home office regulations state that applicants may apply for either work visa or visitors visa to travel to the UK to sit  for this exam. However, I would advice that people get sponsorships from hospitals and not hospices, because they will gain the experience they need to successfully take the final test in a hospital setting.

For more information about taking the OSCE click here

Anyone who has successfully completed the CBT and would like a sponsor may drop me a mail.

So to all you hard working  African nurses, it’s time to plant your feet firmly on the ground and grab this opportunity with both hands. I know most people may say they don’t like UK, but the truth is that it’s a whole lot better when compared to practicing anywhere in Africa as the UK has one of the most advanced health care delivery systems in the world. 

All the best!

Drop your questions in the comment box.