The CBT exam preparation is a crucial step for nurses and midwives looking to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) UK. The Computer-Based Test (CBT) is part of the NMC’s Test of Competence, designed to assess candidates’ knowledge and understanding of professional nursing or midwifery practices in the UK.

A common question many candidates have is: How much time should I spend preparing for the CBT exam? The answer depends on factors such as your previous experience, study habits, and familiarity with UK nursing standards. In this blog, we’ll explore recommended preparation time, effective study strategies, and the latest updates about the CBT exam.

This blog is a part of our Course CBT

Understanding the NMC CBT Exam

The NMC CBT exam is designed to assess an applicant’s theoretical knowledge of nursing or midwifery as per UK healthcare standards. It consists of:

Multiple-choice questions (MCQs)

Domains based on The Code (Professional Standards of Practice and Behaviour for Nurses, Midwives, and Nursing Associates)

Clinical scenarios and best practices

Numeracy-based questions

The exam is divided into two parts:

Part A – Numeracy (medication dosage calculations, unit conversions, etc.)

Part B – Clinical Questions (theory-based questions covering nursing practice and patient care)

The exam is taken online and is one of the key steps in obtaining NMC registration for internationally educated nurses.

How Much Time Should You Spend Preparing?

The amount of time needed for CBT exam preparation depends on your familiarity with UK healthcare practices:

Beginners (4-6 Weeks)

If you are new to the UK healthcare system or lack familiarity with NMC guidelines, you should allocate at least four to six weeks for thorough preparation. Your study plan should include:

Reviewing The Code and NMC guidelines

Studying common clinical scenarios

Practicing medication calculations and numeracy questions

Taking full-length mock tests

Intermediate Candidates (2-4 Weeks)

If you have experience in nursing but need to align with UK healthcare standards, two to four weeks of focused study may be enough. Your preparation should involve:

Reviewing key topics, including infection control, patient safety, and ethical considerations

Solving past exam questions and practice tests

Strengthening weaker areas through revision

Experienced Nurses (1-2 Weeks)

If you are already familiar with UK nursing standards, you may only need one to two weeks of revision before taking the CBT exam. Your preparation should include:

Taking multiple mock tests to assess readiness

Focusing on UK-specific protocols and case studies

Practicing time management to complete the test within the given time frame

Effective Study Strategies for CBT Exam Preparation

To maximize your study time, follow these strategies:

Create a Study Plan

Break down your study schedule based on key topics. Allocate time for revision, practice tests, and weaker areas. A structured plan ensures steady progress and reduces last-minute stress.

Use Official Study Materials

Recommended resources include:

NMC’s Test of Competence Blueprints

The Code by NMC

Official practice tests from NMC or reputable training providers

Online courses and video tutorials on UK healthcare standards

Take Mock Tests

Practice tests help you:

Familiarize yourself with the exam format

Improve time management

Identify knowledge gaps

Gain confidence in answering multiple-choice questions

Join Study Groups and Online Forums

Engaging with other candidates can provide valuable insights, support, and motivation. Online forums and study groups help share resources and clarify doubts.

Master Medication Calculations

Since numeracy is a crucial part of the CBT exam, ensure you practice:

Dosage calculations

Unit conversions

Safe medication administration principles

Understand UK Healthcare Policies

Familiarize yourself with:

NHS policies and protocols

Patient safety guidelines

Infection control and hand hygiene

Safeguarding policies

Latest Updates About the CBT Exam

New Exam Format for 2024-2025

The NMC has updated the CBT exam blueprint to reflect modern nursing practices. Candidates should review the latest test specifications and sample questions available on the NMC website.

Online and Remote Testing Options

To increase accessibility, NMC now offers online CBT exams in addition to test centers worldwide. Candidates should ensure they meet technical requirements before opting for remote exams.

Increased Emphasis on Clinical Scenarios

The updated CBT exam now includes more scenario-based questions, requiring candidates to apply clinical knowledge rather than rely solely on theoretical understanding.

Improved Support for International Candidates

The NMC has introduced more resources, including webinars and guides, to help international nurses understand UK healthcare standards and successfully pass the CBT exam.

Changes in Pass Mark Criteria

Recent updates indicate a revised scoring system where candidates must meet minimum competency levels in both Part A (Numeracy) and Part B (Clinical Questions) separately to pass the CBT exam.

Final Thoughts

The time required for CBT exam preparation depends on your experience level and familiarity with UK nursing standards. Beginners should plan for four to six weeks, while experienced nurses may need as little as one to two weeks of revision.

By setting a structured study plan, utilizing official resources, practicing mock tests, and staying updated with the latest exam changes, you can confidently pass the CBT exam and take a step closer to NMC registration.

Remember, CBT exam preparation is not just about passing a test—it’s about understanding UK healthcare standards and ensuring safe, effective nursing practices. Stay committed, use the right resources, and approach your exam with confidence!