The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) has officially announced that the NMC OSCE Test Centre operated in partnership with Northumbria University will permanently close on 19 February 2026. This directly impacts international nurses and UK NMC registration candidates planning to complete their Test of Competence (ToC) in the UK.
The closure of the NMC OSCE Test Centre at Northumbria University is a significant change that affects many aspiring nurses. For those unaware, the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is a crucial part of the assessment for nurses wishing to register in the UK. This announcement comes as part of ongoing changes in the healthcare sector aimed at improving the overall efficiency of the registration process.
It is essential for candidates to stay updated on these changes, as they can have a direct impact on their study plans and exam preparations. For many international nurses, this closure may mean adjusting their travel plans and possibly considering relocation to other cities to complete the OSCE.
With the closure of the Northumbria University OSCE centre, many candidates are now seeking a reliable and convenient alternative. The Leeds OSCE exam centre stands out as an excellent choice, offering easy accessibility and a strong reputation for supporting candidate success.
What to do next if you were planning to appear at the OSCE in
Northumbria NMC OSCE Test Centre?
This shift in testing locations could also lead to a greater demand at remaining OSCE centres, potentially putting pressure on available dates and resources. Candidates are encouraged to remain proactive in securing their exam dates to avoid any last-minute stress or complications. Understanding the nuances of each testing centre and the specific requirements they may have is crucial for a seamless registration and examination experience.
Since the Northumbria University OSCE centre is closing, candidates who have been writing or planning to write the exam there now have an excellent alternative: the Leeds exam centre. It is the nearest and most accessible OSCE centre for many candidates. Those who take their exam at Leeds can benefit from Mentor Merlin’s 6th-day OSCE training, conducted by expert UK trainers right at the building of Leeds exam centre. This allows candidates to get hands-on training in the actual exam environment, become familiar with the test centre, and enter the exam fully prepared and confident.
For first-time candidates, it is advisable to seek out resources and support networks that can provide guidance throughout the preparation process. This could include joining study groups, accessing online forums, or participating in workshops that focus on typical OSCE scenarios. Many successful candidates attribute their success to the communal support they received during their study period.
Closure of Northumbria University OSCE Centre
The Northumbria University OSCE centre has been one of the core locations used by overseas nurses to take the NMC OSCE exam as part of their NMC UK registration
procedure. Due to the closure, only candidates within a particular timeframe will be able to take their exam there. After that exact period, nurses must use another
NMC-approved OSCE centre in the UK.
Information for First-Time NMC OSCE Candidates
In addition to the centres mentioned, candidates may also want to explore other locations that offer specialised training and guidance tailored to the OSCE. Each approved centre has its unique strengths, and candidates should consider factors such as travel distance, available resources, and the reputation of the training provided. This research can significantly influence their overall preparation experience.
● The Candidates taking the NMC OSCE for the initial attempt should note:
● First-attempt OSCE exams will be conducted at Northumbria up to 19 December 2025
● The Existing OSCE bookings up to 31 January 2026 will be honoured.
● No new first attempt OSCE bookings will be accepted or approved after 19 December 2025 at Northumbria.
● The Candidates must take their first-time OSCE exam at an alternative OSCE
centre.
For those needing to resit the OSCE, being aware of the deadlines for bookings is crucial. As the closure date approaches, spaces may fill up quickly, and resit candidates could find themselves in a competitive situation for available slots. Additionally, it might be beneficial for candidates to reflect on their previous attempts and identify specific areas of improvement prior to their resit.
Ultimately, staying organised and informed throughout this transition period will help candidates maintain focus and clarity in their goals. Regularly reviewing the NMC’s guidelines and updates related to the OSCE will ensure that candidates are well-prepared for any changes that may arise, helping them navigate through any challenges with confidence.
Other NMC-Approved OSCE Test Centres
The Candidates can pick from other UK OSCE centres, such as:
● Oxford Brookes University
● Ulster University
● University of Northampton
● Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Information for OSCE Resit Candidates
● Northumbria will continue and maintain to accept OSCE resit bookings until midday on 19 February 2026.
● The Candidates needing an OSCE resit should book early to avoid limited availability.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the closure of the Northumbria University OSCE Test Centre presents both challenges and opportunities for international nurses pursuing UK NMC registration. It is essential for candidates to adapt quickly, explore alternative centres, and engage with available resources to ensure they remain on track in their journey. By planning ahead and making informed decisions, candidates can achieve their goals without delays. Mentor Merlin remains committed to providing exceptional support throughout this process, whether it be through training, preparation, or booking assistance. Together, we can navigate this transition effectively and continue to work towards becoming registered nurses in the UK.
NMC Test of Competence Team : TOC@nmc-uk.org
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