Changes to NMC’s English language requirements
NMC has introduced changes to English Language tests from Tuesday 28 January 2020. They will accept an OET certificate that confirms you scored a minimum of C+ in writing alongside a minimum of B in reading, listening and speaking. NMC Council agreed to this change at their meeting on Wednesday 27 November 2019.

NMC will update their guidance to reflect the change when it comes into effect on Tuesday 28 January 2020. Their current requirements, as set out in the guidance below, are in effect until then.

NMC accepts two English language tests as evidence of your ability to communicate effectively in English: the International English Language Test System (IELTS) and the Occupational English Test (OET).

You must achieve the required score in each of the four areas of reading, writing, listening and speaking. Test scores are valid for two years.

International English Language Test System (IELTS)

[updated as of 5th December 2018]

NMC will accept an IELTS Academic examination certificate that confirms you achieved:

• an overall score of at least 7
• at least 6.5 in the writing section and at least 7 in the reading, listening and speaking sections.

Combining IELTS test scores

You can achieve the required mark across two test sittings if:

• you sit the English language tests within six months of each other
• you’re tested in all four sections at the same time
• all scores in both sittings are above 6.5, and
• you achieve at least 6.5 in the writing section and at least 7 in the reading, listening and speaking sections in either of the two test sittings.

Occupational English Test (OET)

We’ll accept an OET examination certificate that confirms you achieved:

• at least a B grade in the writing, reading, listening and speaking sections.

Combining OET test scores

You can achieve the required mark across two test sittings if:

• you sit the tests within six months of each other
• you’re tested in all four sections at the same time
• all grades in both sittings are above Grade C+, and
• you achieve Grade B or higher in all four sections when the results of both sittings are viewed together.

Submitting your evidence

If you’re submitting an Occupational English Tests certificate as part of your application, you’ll need to give the NMC for permission to verify your results through your OET account.