Passing the NCLEX-RN as an overseas nurse is a huge achievement—it marks a significant milestone on your path to becoming a registered nurse in Australia. However, many internationally qualified nurses wonder what comes next. The good news is that you're well on your way to professional registration, but there are still a few important steps before you can start practicing. In this blog, we’ll walk you through what to expect after passing the NCLEX-RN in Australia, from the next phase of the Outcome-Based Assessment (OBA) to finally stepping into the Australian healthcare workforce.
1. The Next Step: The OSCE Exam
Once you’ve passed the NCLEX-RN, the next and final hurdle in the OBA pathway is the OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination). Unlike the NCLEX, which tests your theoretical and critical thinking skills, the OSCE is a practical, hands-on assessment that evaluates your clinical and communication abilities in a simulated healthcare environment.
Administered by the Adelaide Health Simulation Centre, the OSCE typically consists of 10 clinical stations where you’ll be expected to demonstrate safe and effective patient care. Scenarios might include wound care, medication administration, communication with patients or colleagues, and emergency response situations.
What you’ll need to do:
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Book and prepare for the OSCE. Many nurses opt to enroll in prep courses offered by accredited training centers.
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Practice clinical skills regularly, especially if you’ve been away from bedside care for some time.
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Review Australian healthcare standards and policies, including infection control and documentation.
2. Applying for AHPRA Registration
After successfully completing both the NCLEX-RN and the OSCE, you can proceed with the final stage of registration through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). You would have already started this process earlier when you were assessed for OBA eligibility, but now, AHPRA will evaluate your entire file and verify that you’ve met all requirements.
Key requirements include:
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Proof of NCLEX-RN and OSCE results
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Identity documents
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English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS or OET if applicable)
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Criminal history checks
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Verification of qualifications and experience
Once approved, you’ll be officially added to the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) register as a Registered Nurse (RN). This allows you to legally practice in Australia.
3. Job Hunting and Employment
With registration in hand, the doors open for employment in hospitals, clinics, aged care facilities, and other healthcare settings across Australia. Many employers welcome internationally trained nurses, especially in rural or regional areas where demand is high.
Expect the following during your job search:
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Interviews and reference checks
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Potential bridging or orientation programs offered by hospitals
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Familiarization with workplace culture and documentation standards
Be sure to prepare a professional resume and cover letter tailored to the Australian job market. You can also apply for jobs through health recruitment agencies or state health portals like NSW Health, Queensland Health, or SA Health.
4. Visa and Immigration Considerations
If you are not already on a visa that allows full-time work, passing the NCLEX and obtaining AHPRA registration can significantly strengthen your eligibility for skilled migration visas (such as the subclass 190 or 491). Some employers even offer sponsorship to eligible candidates.
You may want to consult a registered migration agent to explore your long-term options for permanent residency or employer-sponsored visas.
5. Embracing Life as a Nurse in Australia
Working as a nurse in Australia comes with many benefits—competitive salaries, work-life balance, professional development opportunities, and a supportive healthcare environment. However, there may be a period of adjustment as you adapt to new systems, terminology, and cultural expectations in the workplace.
Things to look forward to:
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Professional support and ongoing training
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Opportunities for specialization (e.g., ICU, mental health, aged care)
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A diverse and inclusive workforce
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A high standard of patient care
In Summary
After passing the NCLEX-RN in Australia, your journey continues with the OSCE exam, AHPRA registration, job searching, and immigration planning. While the path may be demanding, the reward is a fulfilling nursing career in one of the world’s most respected healthcare systems. With determination, preparation, and a clear vision of your goals, you’ll soon be making a difference in the lives of patients across Australia.
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