1. IQN Theory Preparation
IQN Theory Course
A self-paced online course with structured lessons, chapter quizzes, and timed mock exams for nurses preparing for the IQN theory stage.
Explore IQN Theory CourseStructured Learning Pathway for IQNs
Choose Your NZ Nursing Prep Path
Prepare for the stage of the NCNZ pathway that applies to you now.
Choose self-paced IQN theory study, or guided OSCE preparation with online review and virtual patient practice for communication-based stations.
- IQN Theory Course: self-paced online theory preparation with structured lessons, chapter quizzes, and timed mock exams
- OSCE Prep Course: guided online OSCE preparation focused on communication-based stations
- Includes 6 months of virtual patient practice for communication-based stations with OSCE Prep
- Join the hundreds of nurses who prepared with Kiwi Nurse Academy
IQN Theory CourseOSCE Prep Course
600+ IQNs
Successfully used Kiwi Nurse Academy
Kiwi Nurse Academy is an online learning platform for internationally qualified nurses who are required to complete this pathway or want to understand it more clearly. We provide NZ IQN Theory Exam and OSCE preparation. We help candidates prepare with NZ-focused content and clearer planning across the registration journey. Kiwi Nurse Academy helps internationally qualified nurses prepare for the NCNZ competence assessment pathway with two focused online courses: a self-paced IQN Theory Course and a guided OSCE Prep Course with communication-based virtual patient practice and online review.
Course model
Two distinct online courses for different stages
IQN Theory Course
Self-paced online theory preparation
OSCE Prep Course
Guided communication-focused online preparation
Course Access
6 months access for each course
Choose Your Stage
Two different courses for two different stages
Some nurses need one stage now and may return later for the other. Choose the course that matches your current NCNZ requirement.
2. OSCE Preparation
OSCE Prep Course
A guided online preparation course for nurses at the OSCE stage, focused on communication-based stations, structured review, feedback, and virtual patient practice.
View OSCE Prep CourseWho Kiwi Nurse Academy Supports
For internationally qualified nurses who want a clearer route to NZ registration.
Kiwi Nurse Academy is designed for nurses who want focused learning, realistic practice, and a more structured path through the IQN theory exam and OSCE stages when NCNZ requires them.
- Internationally qualified nurses who are required to complete this pathway
- Nurses preparing for the NZ IQN Theory Exam stage of the NCNZ process
- Candidates required to complete the clinical competence assessment pathway, including orientation and OSCE
- Learners looking for topic-wise practice, mock exams, and guided OSCE preparation
- Internationally qualified nurses planning their route to nursing registration in New Zealand
Step-by-Step Guide
See how learners use the platform across the IQN and OSCE stages.
Some nurses start with IQN theory and return later for OSCE preparation when that stage applies to them.
IQN theory
How learners use the IQN theory stage
Sign Up
Create your account to begin your IQN prep journey.
Start IQN Prep
Unlock the IQN theory preparation stage if this is the current NCNZ requirement you need to work through.
Study by Chapter
Work through focused lessons built around NCNZ-relevant topics.
Use Quizzes
Check understanding with structured chapter quizzes and practice work.
Take Mock Tests
Simulate exam conditions and identify the areas that need more work.
OSCE prep
How learners use the OSCE preparation stage
Start OSCE Prep
Begin the OSCE preparation stage with station-based resources, guided learning, and a clearer practice structure.
Practise Communication Stations
Use online virtual mock patients to rehearse introductions, consent, empathy, patient education, and communication flow.
Review Stations
Study role structure, expectations, and critical checkpoints for each station.
Join Group Sessions
Enroll in available OSCE group sessions once you are ready for guided review.
Refine with Feedback
Use personalised feedback to improve technique, timing, and communication.
Preparation Confidence
Build confidence before exam day with structured repetition.
Use guided lessons, realistic practice, and stage-specific feedback to turn preparation into a clearer routine.
Student Voice
What our students say after preparing with us.
Maria Santos
Philippines
“Kiwi Nurse Academy made my IQN theory exam preparation so much easier! The quizzes and mock tests were exactly what I needed to boost my confidence. I passed on my first attempt - thank you so much!”
Passed IQN Exam
Amit Patel
India
“I highly recommend Kiwi Nurse Academy to any internationally qualified nurse preparing for the NZ registration exam. The study materials are well-structured, and the mock tests helped me identify areas I needed to improve. A great platform for success!”
Passed IQN Exam
Pema Gurung
Nepal
“The online platform was very convenient for my busy schedule. The chapter quizzes and timed mock tests were incredibly helpful. Thanks to Kiwi Nurse Academy, I felt fully prepared and passed my IQN exam!”
Passed IQN Exam
Anna Kowalska
Poland
“I was nervous about taking the IQN exam, but Kiwi Nurse Academy gave me the right tools to succeed. The structured lessons, quizzes, and mock tests helped me gain confidence and pass my exam. I'm so grateful for this amazing resource!”
Passed IQN Exam
Editorial Notes
Stay Informed
Latest news and insights on New Zealand nurse registration.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions about NZ IQN and OSCE preparation
Find answers to common questions about NZ IQN Theory Exam preparation and OSCE preparation for NCNZ registration.
- Create a free Kiwi Nurse Academy account, then choose the preparation stage that matches your current NCNZ requirement. Some learners start with IQN theory exam preparation and return later for OSCE preparation if that stage applies to them.
- Both the IQN theory course and the OSCE prep course include 6 months of access. If you need an extension, email info@kiwinurseacademy.co.nz and we will help.
- The Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) registration pathway for internationally qualified nurses (IQNs) includes application assessment, document verification, and any further requirements NCNZ assigns. For some nurses who are required to complete a test of competence pathway, this includes the IQN theory exam followed by a clinical competence assessment in Christchurch, which includes orientation and the OSCE. Requirements can change, so always confirm the latest steps and timelines with NCNZ.
- The NCNZ OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) is an in-person clinical competence assessment held in Christchurch at the Nurse Maude Simulation and Assessment Centre. It assesses communication, clinical reasoning, patient safety, and professional practice across simulated stations.
- Our OSCE Prep Course is guided online OSCE preparation focused on communication-based stations. It includes virtual patient practice, structured review, feedback on common pitfalls, and NZ-context preparation for timing, patient interaction, and flow.
- The NZ IQN Theoretical Examination is a computer-based multiple-choice test (CBT) delivered via Pearson VUE for candidates whose NCNZ pathway includes a competence assessment. It is split into two parts: Part A – Medication Safety (12 questions, 30 minutes) and Part B – Nursing Knowledge (108 questions, 135 minutes), giving a total of 120 questions in 165 minutes. If you fail only one part, you only need to resit that part.
- Part A (Medication Safety) tests medicine calculations: drug dosage calculations, unit conversions, IV infusion rates, and safe administration. Part B (Nursing Knowledge) covers four NCNZ competency domains: Professional Responsibility (ethics, consent, accountability, NZ Code of Conduct), Management of Nursing Care (assessment, care planning, prioritisation, clinical decision-making), Interpersonal Relationships (therapeutic communication, patient and whānau relationships), and Interprofessional Health Care & Quality Improvement (teamwork, collaboration, health education). Cultural safety and Te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations are embedded throughout.
- Our IQN Theory Course is self-paced online theory preparation with structured lessons, chapter quizzes, and timed mock exams with explanations to build confidence before test day.
- Not always. Your pathway depends on NCNZ's assessment of your application. Some IQNs may need the theory exam, some the OSCE, some both, and some neither competence assessment, alongside other registration requirements.
- Yes. All learning resources are available 24/7 on desktop and mobile so you can study around shift work and family commitments.
IQN Theory CourseOSCE Prep Course
Choose the right course for your current NCNZ stage.
Kiwi Nurse Academy offers two focused online courses: the self-paced IQN Theory Course and the guided OSCE Prep Course with virtual patient practice and online review.