An overview of Australian nursing registration pathways

Registration is what allows you to practise as a nurse in Australia. It is decided by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA), working with Ahpra. It is separate from your visa and from any skills assessment for migration.

Step one: the Self-check

Internationally qualified nurses and midwives start with the NMBA's online Self-check. Based on your qualification, it places you in a stream. Broadly, nurses whose qualifications are found substantially equivalent to an Australian approved qualification may apply for registration without further assessment, while others are referred to the outcomes-based assessment, or may need further study.

The outcomes-based assessment

For registered nurses referred to it, the outcomes-based assessment has two stages: a computer-based multiple choice exam (the NCLEX-RN), and then an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) taken in person in Australia. You must pass the exam before attempting the OSCE, and an Ahpra referral is needed before booking.

The registration standards

Every applicant must meet the NMBA's registration standards. These include English language skills, criminal history, professional indemnity insurance arrangements and recency of practice. The English standard lists the accepted tests and minimum scores, and it is revised from time to time.

Common questions

• Is registration the same as a visa? No. You usually need both.
• Is registration the same as an ANMAC skills assessment? No. ANMAC assesses your skills for migration purposes.
• Can I start the Self-check before an English test? Yes, the Self-check is a sensible first step.

Fees, exam arrangements and standards change, so confirm the current details on the NMBA and Ahpra websites before you apply.

This article is general information, not legal, immigration or financial advice. Requirements change; always check the official source.