Professional registration

What OET score do nurses need for NMBI in Ireland?

NMBI accepts OET (Nursing) with grade B (350 - 450) in listening, reading and speaking and C+ (300 - 340) in writing. It accepts only one test result, so you cannot combine sittings. The result must be less than two years old when you apply for registration, and NMBI does not accept OET at home.
  • Checked against official sources · 14 October 2026
  • 4 sections
  • IELTS

NMBI minimum OET grades

NMBI accepts IELTS Academic, IELTS Academic for UKVI and OET as English evidence (NMBI). Its OET table, copied below, describes the requirement as OET (Nursing) with grade B in three components and C+ in one.

ComponentNMBI minimum (OET)NMBI minimum (IELTS Academic)
ListeningB (350 - 450)7.0
ReadingB (350 - 450)7.0
WritingC+ (300 - 340)6.5
SpeakingB (350 - 450)7.0
OverallNot stated7.0

One result, under two years old

NMBI accepts only one test result and does not accept combined results. Results must be less than two years old, otherwise you must resit, and NMBI verifies scores independently using the 9-digit OET candidate number from your Statement of Results (NMBI). It does not accept IELTS online or OET at home.

For online applications started after 28 September 2020, the English evidence is asked for at the registration stage (Stage 2), so the test must be valid when you submit the registration application, not when you apply for qualification recognition. NMBI warns not to apply until you meet the minimum scores, because the assessment fee is non-refundable.

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When you do not need OET

NMBI has two other pathways (NMBI). Pathway 1: your pre-registration qualification was taught and examined in English in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the USA or the UK. Pathway 2: you have three years of post-registration practice within the last five years in one of those countries, shown by an employer or nursing authority letter.

OET for other professions in Ireland

OET says the Irish Medical Board and the Dental Council of Ireland also accept OET (OET Ireland). Check each body's own page for the grades it needs.

For the IELTS route, see IELTS for nurses in Ireland. Because NMBI wants every score in one sitting, try a timed free IELTS mock test or an official OET sample test before you book.

Frequently asked questions

What OET score does NMBI require?+

OET (Nursing) with B (350 - 450) in listening, reading and speaking and C+ (300 - 340) in writing, as listed in NMBI's table.

Can I combine two OET results for NMBI?+

No. NMBI accepts one test result only and does not accept combined results.

Does NMBI accept OET@Home?+

No. NMBI does not accept OET at home or IELTS online.

How old can my OET result be for NMBI?+

Less than two years old, measured when you submit your registration application.

Do I need OET if I trained in the UK?+

Not if your pre-registration qualification was taught and examined in English in the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand or the USA (NMBI Pathway 1).

Keep reading

Related

Verified against the linked official sources on 14 October 2026. Rules change: confirm on the official page before you book or apply.

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