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OBA Program

Outcome Based Assessment (OBA) For Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQNs)

Outcomes-Based Assessment (OBA) program is a new model of assessment which include:

  • online self-check for all internationally Qualified Nurses and Midwives (IQNMs)
  • The orientation program for IQNMs who are advised to continue with the assessment process (Category A) and
  • OBA course for some IQNMs (Category B)
  • Enrol to EN or University RN courses (Category C)

OBA is for Internationally Qualified Nurse (IQN) who want to work as an RN in Australia.

The OBA consists of two key components:

  • NCLEX-RN Exam – A computer-based test evaluating nursing knowledge.
  • OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) – A practical exam for behavioural evaluation, which evaluates the knowledge, Skills, and clinical competencies.

What are the steps to begin my nursing registration procedure under OBA?

Step 1: Self -Check

Internationally qualified Nurses need to submit their qualification information at the Self-check on the AHPRA website. Link: Completing the Self-check

Step 2: Assessment Fees

Pay the Assessment fees of AUD 410 if eligible after self-check.

Step 3: Orientation Part 1

Attend an hour e-learning module on AHPRA portal.

Step 4: Portfolio

Upload all your identity, and qualification documents properly attested as per AHPRA guidelines

Step 5: NCLEX-RN/MCQ Exam

Once approved by AHPRA, pay your NCLEX RN examination fees approx. $450AUD and sit in your exam

Step 6: OSCE

Appear for OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) which is a practical examination conducted by Adelaide Health Simulation Centre. The fee for this examination is approx. $4000AUD.

Step 7: Apply For Registration

Pay the registration fees of 475 AUD and apply for registration by submitting the required documents

Step 8: Orientation Part II

Complete the e-learning module within the first 6 months of becoming a registered nurse in Australia.

Some important links

Information for internationally qualified registered nurses about OBA program, please visit:
Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia – Information for registered nurses

AHPRA Website for OSCE
Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia – Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE)

For NCLEX-RN, visit:
NCLEX-RN MCQ Examination – Candidate Handbook 

Enquire for the OBA Program

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Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs)

What is Next Generation NCLEX (NGN)?
The National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NGN) is a standardized test that the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) has introduced to determine if a candidate is ready to be licensed as an entry-level nurse in Australia.
How do I registered to sit the NCLEX-RN Exam?
Once your portfolio is approved, your IQNM dashboard will update. You must then register and pay the NCLEX-RN fee with Pearson VUE via the NCSBN website. After registration, the IQNM team confirms your eligibility, and Pearson VUE sends you an authorisation-to-test email. With this, you can book your exam date, time, and location directly with Pearson VUE.
What is Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE)?
The OSCE is a clinical exam to assess the candidate’s knowledge, skills and competence as a graduate-level nurse or midwife from an Australian NMBA-approved program of study.
Who is the OSCE course for?
This course is specifically designed for overseas registered nurses who are aiming to pursue a career in nursing in Australia. This course is the second part of the Outcome Based Assessment (OBA) pathway.
Am I eligible to enrol in the preparation for OSCE program?
Candidates who have successfully completed the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) are eligible to enrol in this program. Applicants must hold an appropriate visa that meets study condition requirements.
How Frequently are OSCE exams held?
RN OSCEs are held in each calendar month at one of the exam locations. Candidate demand for the OSCE is monitored and exam days can be added to meet the demand. Once you have completed all the requirements to be eligible for the OSCE, the IQNM Exam team will contact you when exam days become available.
Can I withdraw my application?
You can withdraw your application at any stage. However, all fees you have paid are non-refundable.
How many exam stations will there be?
Each candidate completes 10 stations. Each station lasts 10 minutes: 2 minutes for reading outside the room and 8 minutes for interaction inside.
How long will the OSCE go for?
Candidates will be assigned to either a morning or afternoon session, each lasting about 3–3.5 hours. Please wait until your session date and time are confirmed before booking travel or accommodation.
What is your refund or cancelation policy?
You can cancel your spot and get a full refund if you notify us at least 7 days before the workshop. If you can’t make it, you may change the name on your booking or reschedule to another date up to 1 day before. Please note, date changes are limited to a maximum of 2 times.
Do you have discounts for group bookings?
Yes, we do. Please contact ANESA via office@anesasydney.com.au for more information
Will receive a certificate after completion?
No. This is non-accredited training program to teach, guide and train you to excel in your NCLEX-RN and OSCE Exam However, Benefits of attending this course are priceless.
What visa do I need for OSCE in Australia?
You can apply for a tourist, visitor or guest visa to take the OSCE exam in Australia. International nurses must present a valid visa to the IQNM exam team within three months.
Can I change my exam date?
You will need to contact the IQNM exams team at IQNMexams@ahpra.gov.au at least three (3) full business days (72 hours) before your scheduled exam date and time. If you miss your exam appointment, your exam fee will be forfeited, and no refund is applicable
When Will I Get My Results of OSCE Exam?
The OSCE results will be released within 8 weeks of the examination date.
What Happens If I Pass OSCE?
Candidates who pass the OSCE exam may now apply to AHPRA for registration with the NMBA.
How much time does it take to receive an outcome of my application from AHPRA?
AHPRA assesses each application individually and most applicants receive an outcome within 6- 8 weeks provided that the documents submitted are as per AHPRA’s guidelines.
When do I need to submit my English language test results?
You will need to submit valid English language test results after successfully passing the OSCE exam.
How many years of experience do I need for my nursing registration?
As per the recency of practice standard of the AHPRA, 450 hours of work experience as a Registered nurse is recommended within the last 5 years. However, if you have successfully passed the OBA assessment i.e. NCLEX, and OSCE examination, you will meet the recency of practice standard even if you do NOT have work experience.