Overseas Nurses Programme
ONP: Frequently asked Questions
How do I apply for the ONP?
Firstly, you must take an international English language test (IELTS). Only overseas-trained nurses who have achieved an average total band score of 7.0 in the academic level IELTS are able to apply for registration with the NMC.
Next you need to apply to the NMC with an administration fee. They will send you an application pack. The NMC will ask to see your certificates and other information. They will send you a letter stating whether in their opinion you will only have to do the 20 days protected learning time or whether you will also need to have ‘supervised practice’ (please see NMC Booklet on overseas registration).
My first language is English. Do I still need to take the IELTS test?
Yes. This is designed to remove any question of discrimination or unfairness from the process. List of providers of the IELTS exam.
What is 'protected learning time'?
‘Protected learning time’ will help you gain an understanding of working in the UK healthcare system. The course includes the law, record-keeping, ethics, administration of medicines and inter-professional relationships.
What happens next?
Once your application has been assessed, and if you meet the minimum requirements, the NMC will invite you to undertake the ONP. The course can only be undertaken in the UK. A number of universities offer the ONP course although some stretch the 20 days protected learning over several months. Some educational institutions offer only the 20 days protected learning, while others can also arrange the supervised practice element.
Can Consultus help me to get a place on an ONP?
If you have received a letter from the NMC stating that you should only need the 20 days protected learning then we can help you. We have partnered with a university that can help you complete the ONP within about 30 days. Please contact us for details.
We regret that we cannot help you if you also need supervised practice; we recommend that you look at the NMC’s list of approved course providers and to call the educational institution of your choice.
At what academic level is the programme delivered?
The NMC has not specified a level but has clearly indicated that overseas trained Nurses should be as least as proficient as those trained in Britain. This indicates that course providers should deliver the programme at a minimum of DipHE (level 2) as this is the minimum level for entry to the NMC register.
Can applicants have an extension when they undertake the ONP?
Nurses undertaking the ONP will be allowed one extension, for a period of three months only.
What if I fail the ONP?
If you fail at your first attempt, contact the NMC and they will re-assess your application and may allow you to take it again.
Can I work while on the ONP programme?
The NMC believe that overseas-trained Nurses should not accept paid employment while they are undertaking the protected learning, however there is nothing to prevent someone who has a pre-existing right to work in the UK from doing so. Consultus may be able to offer you work as a Live-in Carer but you must be sure that you will have enough time to complete the course satisfactorily.
What happens after a Nurse successfully completes the ONP programme?
Programme providers are required to inform the NMC when an overseas-trained Nurse has successfully completed an approved programme, in order to confirm that individual’s competence, good health and good character. The NMC will then complete its registration procedures, which may take a few more weeks.
Can Consultus offer me work if I satisfactorily complete the ONP and NMC registration process?
Yes, so long as you have been successful in our recruitment process, Consultus can offer you work as a Live-in Nurse (please see Nursing Job Requirements and Your Interview).
Contact Us
If you have any further questions please contact us and speak to a Nurse Consultant or email your questions to us.
