Pass your CBT exam with IR Academy
Are you planning a Nursing Career in UK? Do you have questions about the NMC’s CBT exam? Are you struggling to find the right materials?
SLC would like to introduce IR Academy, our partners in delivering resources to help you succeed in your UK Nursing career.
What is the CBT?
The CBT (Computer-Based Test) is the first part of the UK Nursing and Midwifery Council’s (NMC’s) Test of Competence, assessing your theoretical nursing knowledge before you can move forward with UK registration. It is a 3-hour multiple choice exam, taken on a computer. Part A (15 questions) tests you on numeracy and Part B (100 questions) tests you on clinical knowledge.
Where do I take it?
It is taken at a Pearson Vue exam centre in your home country or in the UK. It can only be booked after completing the first stage of NMC registration via NMC Online, after which you will receive an invitation from NMC.
How do I book it?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to navigating the CBT process:
- Complete the first stage of NMC registration and receive your Test of Competence invite.
- Book the correct CBT exam based on your registration category (e.g., Adult Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, etc.). Each test contains core questions with a small percentage specific to your field of nursing.
- Start preparing! We recommend at least two weeks of focussed study time.
How can I prepare?
There are free practice tests available on Pearson Vue website and also some CBT preparation resources available on NMC website. However, to be well prepared, we recommend you sign up for our IR Academy CBT Masterclass which provides approximately 30 hours of content, including:
- Bite-sized lessons covering key topics.
- Interactive quizzes to test your knowledge.
- Practical scenarios to mirror real CBT questions.
- Detailed feedback to help you identify areas for improvement.
- Access to the CBT forum, where you can connect with peers, share tips, and ask questions.
Kerry Wykes, Academic Director of IR Academy and NMC-registered Nurse says, “We are very proud to boast a 100% first time pass rate for CBT students who have put in the recommended amount of learning on the online platform. We are constantly developing and updating both the CBT and OSCE resources, to ensure that these courses provide exceptional preparation for exams, but also develop our students to adapt seamlessly into Nursing practice in the UK.”
Stella, IR Academy Adult CBT student (first time pass), said, “I must say a big thank you to Kerry and the IR Academy team, for being there. They motivated me and guided me in this exam. The questions were very particular, but all the questions are very similar to what Kerry enrolled us in, the preparation materials.”
Beyond course development – IR Academy’s Commitment to Support
IR Academy does not just focus on course development. The company are also actively working to improve the experience of overseas professionals in the UK. In September 2024, they hosted a conference for UK employers and organisation leaders, highlighting the importance of pastoral care and best practices for integrating overseas professionals into the healthcare workforce. This initiative was well-received by industry leaders who recognise the need for better support systems, retention strategies, and overall well-being for international nurses.
Take the Next Step with IR Academy
If you’re ready to kickstart your UK career, IR Academy is here to guide you every step of the way. For Nurses, the CBT Masterclass will give you the confidence and knowledge to pass your exam and move closer to your dream job in the UK, but other professionals can also benefit from their guidance and resources.
Sign up today to access expert-led training and get 10% off your first course by using the code SLC10OFF.
For more details and to explore IR Academy’s courses visit their website today or follow them on social media: