Step 1
Assigned pathway
Required by the Nursing Council of New Zealand for candidates directed into competence assessment
Registration pathwayIQN + OSCE guide
Your pathway guide
Understand your NZ nursing registration pathwaybefore you choose a course
Learn your NCNZ registration requirements and how IQN theory and OSCE preparation fit into your pathway.
Kiwi Nurse Academy is an independent preparation provider, not the regulator or exam body. For study support, explore IQN Theory Prep and OSCE Prep.
Free mock test
Check your IQN readiness
Try a timed mock preview if your pathway includes IQN Theory.
Requirements, fees, and timelines can change. Always confirm your current pathway details directly with NCNZ.
Registration Snapshot
A clearer map before you commit time and money.
See the authority, likely assessments, and the best moment to begin preparing while your application is still moving through review.
Main authority
Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ)
Who this page is for
Internationally qualified nurses seeking NZ registration
Possible assessments
Competence assessment for some RNs and all ENs in the international pathway
Best preparation timing
Start once NCNZ assigns your pathway requirements
Best next move
Many candidates use the waiting period to start IQN theory or OSCE-focused preparation so they are not starting from zero after the NCNZ decision arrives.
Test of Competence Pathway
Assigned pathway -> IQN Theory Exam -> Orientation -> OSCE -> Registration
This is the high-level test of competence flow for nurses who are required to complete this pathway as part of New Zealand registration.
Step 2
IQN Theory Exam
Computer-based exam delivered through Pearson VUE
Step 3
Orientation (2 days)
In-person in Christchurch before the OSCE
Step 4
OSCE
Clinical competence assessment at Nurse Maude Simulation and Assessment Centre
Step 5
Registration
Move forward once assigned requirements are completed
Registration Overview
NZ nursing registration at a glance
NCNZ registration is one pathway for some international nurses. Stay organised through document verification, application requirements, and if required, competence assessment (the IQN theory exam followed by the OSCE). Preparation timing is critical.
Pathway Steps
How the NZ nursing registration pathway works
The registration process for internationally qualified nurses is not just about forms. NCNZ assesses your background, decides whether extra assessment is needed, and then guides you through the next stage of the pathway.
1
1. Verify your documents with TruMerit
You must first verify and authenticate your documents with TruMerit before applying to NCNZ. TruMerit checks your identity, current registration (held in the last 10 years), nursing qualification, English language proficiency, and evidence of 1,800 hours post-registration nursing experience. This step is mandatory and separate from the NCNZ application process.
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2. Apply to NCNZ after verification
After TruMerit verification is complete, you can submit your Nursing Council application through MyIQN. Ensure names and records are consistent across all documents to avoid delays in assessment.
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3. Complete Welcome to Aotearoa New Zealand courses
All nurses must complete two free online courses that introduce culturally safe nursing practice in New Zealand. These courses are mandatory and help you understand the New Zealand health system, cultural context, and professional expectations.
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4. Pass fitness to practise checks
All nurses are required to undergo a criminal history check as part of the NCNZ assessment. NCNZ individually assesses each application based on your background, qualifications, and practice history.
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5. Complete competence assessment if required
If NCNZ requires competence assessment (some registered nurses and all enrolled nurses in the international pathway), the current pathway includes the IQN theoretical examination, a two-day orientation course, and the OSCE clinical assessment.
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6. Receive registration and practising certificate
After all assigned requirements are met, NCNZ finalises your registration and advises the practising certificate requirements and fees that apply to you.
Application Readiness
What NCNZ usually assesses during registration
Most applicants need to show that their qualification, practice history, identity records, and communication standards meet New Zealand requirements. Keeping your application organised reduces delays and helps you move into the assessment stage faster.
1
Identity documents (passport or similar) that match your application records
2
Nursing qualification credentials and transcript evidence showing equivalent to NZ qualifications
3
Current and recent nursing registration evidence (held in the last 10 years)
4
Evidence of 1,800 hours of post-registration nursing experience
5
English language proficiency evidence (if it applies to your pathway)
6
Clear employment history with dates and verification of clinical experience
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Fitness to practise clearance (criminal history check results)
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Welcome to Aotearoa New Zealand course completion certificates
Avoid Delays
Common mistakes in the registration journey
1
Waiting too long to begin exam preparation after submitting your NCNZ application
2
Assuming every candidate follows the exact same IQN and OSCE sequence
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Using scattered study material instead of NZ-focused preparation
4
Ignoring New Zealand context such as cultural safety, consent, documentation, and escalation standards
5
Submitting incomplete or inconsistent documents that slow assessment
What to Prepare
What you need to prepare for
Prepare for the IQN theory exam first, then the OSCE.
NZ IQN Theory Exam Guide
Understand the theory exam format, topic areas, and how to prepare with structured learning and mock exams.
NZ OSCE Preparation Guide
See how the OSCE works, what stations assess, and how to prepare for New Zealand clinical expectations.
Resource Hub
Related resources for NZ nursing registration
Use these pages to plan your next action based on where you are in the NCNZ process.
Common Questions
NZ nursing registration FAQs
Important Information
Employment and registration costs
Employment and confirmed offers
NCNZ does not recruit or place internationally qualified nurses. New Zealand currently employs many internationally qualified nurses, so competition varies. However, if you have a confirmed written employment offer from a New Zealand health employer and are waiting for registration processing, you can contact NCNZ at iqn@nursingcouncil.org.nz to notify them.
Registration costs and fees
NCNZ registration involves application fees, competence assessment fees (if required), and practising certificate fees. Costs vary based on your pathway and registration level (registered nurse or enrolled nurse). Visit the NCNZ registration costs page for current fees.
Living and working in New Zealand
For information about migrating to and living in New Zealand, visit newzealandnow.govt.nz. For health job opportunities, explore kiwihealthjobs.com.
NCNZ resources
Official NCNZ links
Clear next step
Start preparing for NZ nursing registration with a clearer plan.
Build your pathway around the right assessment, use NZ-focused preparation, and avoid losing time between each stage of the NCNZ process.