What IELTS score do I need for the NMC?

At least 7.0 in listening, reading and speaking, 6.5 in writing, and an overall 7.0 on IELTS Academic.

What OET grade does the NMC require?

Grade B in listening, reading and speaking, and at least grade C+ in writing.

Does the NMC accept PTE Academic?

Yes. The NMC accepts PTE Academic with at least 65 in listening, reading and speaking, 59 in writing, and an overall 65.

Can I combine two test sittings for the NMC?

Yes, if both tests are within six months of each other, you scored no lower than 6.5 (IELTS) or C+ (OET) in any skill, and you reached the required score in each skill across the two sittings.

How long is my English test valid for NMC registration?

Results are generally accepted if the test was taken within the last two years. Always check the current NMC guidance.

NMC English Language Requirements (2026): IELTS, OET & PTE

The English language evidence the NMC accepts for UK nurse and midwife registration — IELTS Academic, OET and PTE Academic scores, the two-sitting rule, and alternative routes.

To join the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) register in the UK, internationally educated nurses and midwives must evidence English language competence. There are several accepted routes — you only need to satisfy one.

Accepted English tests and scores

IELTS Academic

At least 7.0 in listening, reading and speaking
At least 6.5 in writing
An overall score of 7.0

OET (Occupational English Test)

At least grade B in listening, reading and speaking
At least grade C+ in writing

PTE Academic

At least 65 in listening, reading and speaking
At least 59 in writing
An overall score of 65

Your test certificate is generally accepted if the exam was taken within the last two years.

The two-sitting rule

You do not always have to hit every score in a single sitting. The NMC allows you to combine two test sittings if:

both tests were taken within six months of each other,
you did not score below 6.5 (IELTS) / C+ (OET) in any skill in either sitting, and
across the two sittings you achieved the required score in each skill.

This is a lifeline if you are strong in most skills but keep missing one.

Routes that don't require a test

The NMC may also accept English evidence if you:

trained in English — your pre-registration nursing/midwifery programme was taught and examined in English in a majority-English-speaking country, or
registered and practised in English — you are registered and have recent practice in a majority-English-speaking country where English is the first and native language.

Which test should you take?

Most nurses choose between OET and IELTS Academic. OET uses healthcare contexts (patient conversations, referral letters), which many nurses find more natural; IELTS is general-academic. See our dedicated comparison: OET vs IELTS for nursing.

Verify before you book

Requirements and accepted scores are updated periodically. Always confirm the current rules on the official NMC website before booking a test or submitting your application.