Differences in USA NCLEX vs. UK Test of Competence?

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Specializes in Nervous New Grad.

Hello! I have a question for nurses who have been in both the USA and UK about the nursing exams. I'm taking my NCLEX next year, and I plan to take the UK test of competence once I get my licensure. This made me curious about how the differences in testing are.

I know there's two sections to the UK Test of Competence, but I'm unclear about any of the details.

What's the difference between the CBT and the NCLEX? I plan to take the one for adult nursing. Is it about the same in difficulty? Is the question structure similar?

What are the OSCEs like? Is it similar to a skills check-off? Any experience appreciated!

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I wish I had a response for you. I'm now prepping for TEAS to apply for nursing and the same thought has crossed my mind to work overseas. How did you find all this information of what is required and the type of test they have?

Would like a follow up in your journey?

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Specializes in Nervous New Grad.
10 hours ago, PrismovingUp said:

I wish I had a response for you. I'm now prepping for TEAS to apply for nursing and the same thought has crossed my mind to work overseas. How did you find all this information of what is required and the type of test they have?

Would like a follow up in your journey?

I found out because I’m a compulsive over-planner, haha! I found most of this on the UK’s Nursing and Midwifery Council website, though. They have a big guide on joining the register for interested overseas nurses here: https://www.nmc.org.uk/registration/joining-the-register/register-nurse-midwife/trained-outside-uk/ There are also nursing agencies that can help you get placed in the UK, but I’m planning on doing the application process by myself since I’m going to be a new grad and usually agencies want experience.

And I’m planning on making a thread of my journey once I start my NMC application!! :) I plan to start once I graduate this Spring <3

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Thanks for your response. Looking forward to your journey!

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Hi! I’m also a new grad nurse who’s been working in a tele/PCU floor for about 6 months now ^^ I’m planning to work for another year and a half to complete my contract and to gain some experience and then move to the UK. I’m also interested in your journey and if you would happen to have any tips or advice on the application process etc. 

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