Overview of the Nursing Associate CBT

The CBT is the first part of the NMC’s Test of Competence for overseas candidates or those returning to practice who wish to join the UK register as a Trainee Nursing Associate (TNA) or Registered Nursing Associate (NAR). The exam is delivered globally through Pearson VUE test centers. When booking or creating aligned materials, the specific exam code to reference is NAR: Nursing Associate.

Exam Structure and Format

The exam is taken in a single sitting but is distinctly split into two independent modules. It consists of multiple-choice questions, and there is no negative marking for incorrect answers.

• Part A: Numeracy
  • Duration: 30 minutes
  • Volume: 15 short-answer and calculation-based questions
  • Focus: This section rigorously tests applied mathematical skills in a clinical context. Questions typically require candidates to perform drug calculations, determine infusion rates, and manage fluid balances.
• Part B: Clinical
  • Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes (150 minutes)
  • Volume: 100 multiple-choice questions
  • Focus: This section assesses theoretical knowledge, evidence-based practice, and understanding of UK healthcare policies. It measures candidates against the NMC’s Standards of Proficiency for Nursing Associates (2018).

Content Blueprint and Core Themes

For candidates preparing for the exam, or for the development of high-yield practice scenarios, the content focuses heavily on the application of generic nursing domains to the specific role of a Nursing Associate.

Part A Focus Areas:

Numeracy questions require a solid grasp of metric conversions, oral and injectable medication dosage calculations, and intravenous drip rates. Note that while calculators are usually provided on-screen by Pearson VUE, candidates must understand the formulas deeply.

Part B Focus Areas:

The clinical theory section integrates anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and infection control, but relies heavily on UK-specific frameworks and professional values. Key areas include:

• The NMC Code: Understanding professional accountability, delegation, and the limits of the Nursing Associate role compared to a Registered Nurse.
• The 6 Cs of the NHS: Care, Compassion, Competence, Communication, Courage, and Commitment.
• UK Legislation and Ethics: Questions frequently test real-world applications of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (assessing decision-making capacity and acting in a person’s best interests), the Health and Safety at Work Act, and the Equality Act 2010.
• Patient Safety and Quality Care: Safeguarding vulnerable populations, understanding the nursing process (assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation), and responding to clinical deterioration (e.g., using the National Early Warning Score or PEWS chart).

Note for scenario development: Test questions should avoid using specific patient names and instead use generic identifiers (e.g., “A 45-year-old adult,” “The patient”) to align with standard testing formats.

Scoring, Results, and Resit Policies

Because the test is modular, Part A and Part B are evaluated independently.

• Results: Candidates receive their results within 48 hours of testing via their Pearson VUE account. The results simply indicate a “Pass” or “Fail” for each respective part; the NMC does not provide a detailed granular breakdown of the score.
• Resits: If a candidate fails one module, they only need to retake the module they failed, not the entire exam.
• Attempts: Candidates are permitted up to three attempts as part of a single NMC application. There must be a minimum of 10 days between each sitting. All attempts must be completed within one year. If a candidate fails all three attempts, their application closes, and they must wait six months before beginning a new application.
• Current Fee Structure: Taking both Part A and Part B together costs £83. If resitting individually, Part A costs £50, and Part B costs £70.

Preparation Strategy

To succeed, candidates must familiarize themselves deeply with the NMC’s specific blueprints rather than relying solely on general nursing knowledge acquired internationally. Reviewing the NMC Code, understanding the specific scope of practice for a Nursing Associate in the UK, and practicing timed, dual-module mock tests are the most effective ways to build competence and confidence for exam day.