What Comes in the NMC CBT Exam? Format, Topics and Pass Marks for 2026

If you are an internationally educated nurse planning to work in the UK, the NMC CBT exam is usually your first hurdle. It forms Part 1 of the NMC test of competence, and passing it lets you move on to the OSCE. At Envertiz Academy, we meet many nurses unsure what comes up, so this guide sets out the format, syllabus and pass mark for 2026.

Why Is the NMC CBT Exam an Important Step in Your UK Nursing Journey?

The NMC Test of Competence is a mandatory part of the UK NMC registration process for internationally educated nurses. The Computer-Based Test (CBT) assesses theoretical nursing knowledge, while the OSCE evaluates practical skills. Completing the CBT is an important step in the NMC registration journey, helping demonstrate that you meet the required standard of knowledge for nursing practice in the UK.

What Is the Format of the NMC CBT Exam?

The NMC CBT exam is divided into two sections, known as CBT Part A and Part B. Part A covers numeracy: 15 questions on medication calculations and fluid management within a time limit. Part B is larger, with around 100 multiple-choice questions on professional practice, care delivery, leadership and communication. CBT Part A and Part B are taken in one sitting at a Pearson VUE test centre; candidates who fail one section only resit that part.

What Does the NMC CBT Syllabus Actually Cover?

The NMC CBT syllabus is built around the four fields of nursing practice:

Domain	What It Covers
Professional values	Accountability, consent, confidentiality, safeguarding
Communication skills	Patient-centred communication, teamwork, escalation
Nursing practice	Assessment, care planning, evidence-based decisions
Leadership and management	Delegation, prioritisation, quality improvement
Medicines management	Dosage calculations, administration, safety checks

Because the NMC CBT syllabus reflects UK standards, candidates relying on home-country training alone often struggle. Structured preparation with Envertiz Academy, built around the NMC CBT syllabus, produces far stronger results than self-study.

What Kind of CBT Exam Questions and Answers for Nurses Should You Expect?

Most CBT exam questions and answers for nurses follow a multiple-choice or multiple-response format, with some scenario-based items asking for the best sequence of actions. A typical Part A question asks you to calculate an infusion rate; a typical Part B question describes a patient with early signs of sepsis and asks what to do first. Practising sample CBT exam questions and answers for nurses like these is the best starting point for revision.

What makes CBT exam questions and answers for nurses tricky is usually the wording, not the clinical knowledge. Many questions offer two plausible answers, and you must choose the most appropriate one according to UK guidance, such as NICE, rather than the answer you were trained to give elsewhere. Envertiz Academy builds its CBT exam questions and answers for nurses around real exam patterns so candidates learn exactly what the NMC is testing for.

How Can an NMC CBT Mock Test Help You Prepare?

Sitting a full-length NMC CBT mock test under timed conditions is one of the most reliable ways to gauge readiness. A well-designed NMC CBT mock test replicates the pressure of the real exam, including the Part A and Part B split, so you learn to pace yourself. No single NMC CBT mock test guarantees a pass, but consistent scores across several attempts are a strong readiness signal.

At Envertiz Academy, candidates sit several rounds of an NMC CBT mock test, moving from topic-wise practice towards full timed simulations closer to the exam date. Reviewing mistakes afterwards matters just as much as taking the test, and tracking scores against the expected NMC CBT pass mark gives a realistic sense of readiness.

What Is the NMC CBT Pass Mark and How Are Results Given?

The NMC CBT pass mark is not a fixed percentage published by the NMC. It is set using a standard-setting process for each exam version, so it can vary slightly to maintain consistent difficulty. Candidates typically need to score in the region of 75% to 85%, though this should be confirmed against official NMC guidance. Your CBT result is usually provided at the test centre shortly after completing the exam, allowing you to know your outcome before leaving.

How Do You Book the Exam and What Is the CBT Exam Fee?

Once your NMC application reaches the testing stage, you book your slot through Pearson VUE. The CBT exam fee is set by the NMC and payable at booking; check the NMC website for the latest figure, as it is reviewed periodically. Test centres are available in many countries, including India, so most candidates sit the exam without travelling to the UK.

Final Thoughts

Clearing the NMC CBT exam is achievable with the right structure and consistent practice. Understanding the format, practising realistic questions and sitting a timed mock test remove much of the uncertainty. Envertiz Academy supports nurses at every stage, so you walk in knowing exactly what to expect.

Disclaimer: Exam fees, pass marks and booking procedures are set by the NMC and Pearson VUE and are subject to change. Please verify current figures on the official NMC website before booking.