How to become nurse in UK

BECOME A NURSE IN UNITED KINGDOM 

If you're a healthcare professional in India aiming to work in the UK, understanding the registration process with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) is crucial. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through the registration, exams, and visa process

Step 1: English Language Proficiency Exams

To register with the NMC, you must prove your English proficiency by passing one of the following exams:

1. OET (Occupational English Test)

   - This test is specifically designed for healthcare professionals.

   - Required grades:

     - Reading, Speaking, Listening (RSL) - Grade B

     - Writing - Grade C+

2. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

   - Required band scores:

     - Reading - 7.0

     - Speaking - 7.0

     - Listening - 7.0

     - Writing - 6.5

Step 2: Initial Registration with NMC

Once you have your English proficiency scores, you can proceed with your initial registration with the NMC. The registration fee is approximately INR 60,000. After registration, the NMC will send you a mail for state counselling.

- Verification Fees:  INR 3,500

Step 3: CBT (Computer-Based Test)

The next step is to take the CBT, which is a computer-based test consisting of 120 questions that need to be completed in 4 hours. 

- Fees for CBT: INR 8,000

After passing the CBT, you will need to register again with the NMC, which requires another registration fee of INR 60,000.

Step 4: Certificate of Sponsorship (COS)

Once you've registered and passed the necessary exams, a hospital in the UK will send you a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) to support your skilled worker visa application. This COS is typically for a 3-year visa.

 Step 5: Visa Process

You'll apply for a skilled worker visa, which allows you to work in the UK. 

Step 6: OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination)

Once in the UK, you will need to pass the OSCE, a practical test required to obtain your Registered Nurse (RN) status. You will typically get two attempts paid for by your employer or trust.

- OSCE Exam Cost: Approximately INR 100,000 (refundable depending on the employer policy).

Salary Bands in the UK NHS

The UK NHS (National Health Service) uses a band system to determine the pay scale for healthcare workers based on their role, responsibilities, and experience. Here’s a quick overview:

- Band 1: £18,000 per year (Healthcare Assistants, Support Workers)

- Band 2: £20,000 per year (Phlebotomists, Medical Secretaries)

- Band 3: £22,000 per year (Senior Healthcare Assistants, Assistant Practitioners)

- Band 4: £24,000 per year (Ward Managers, Community Nurses)

- Band 5: £26,000 per year (Staff Nurses, Occupational Therapists)

- Band 6: £31,000 per year (Specialist Nurses, Physiotherapists)

- Band 7: £38,000 per year (Advanced Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Specialists)

- Band 8: £45,000 per year (Clinical Managers, Consultant Nurses)

- Band 9: £90,000

All fees are according 2023-24 data