Discover the NMBA’s 2025 English language changes and what PTE Academic test takers need to know to meet the new nursing and midwifery registration standards.

Starting 18 March 2025, the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) has implemented a revised English language registration standard for internationally qualified nurses and midwives, as well as for Australian graduates from non-English speaking backgrounds. This update plays a critical role for those who are preparing to register as a registered nurse, enrolled nurse, or midwife in Australia. If you’re planning to use the PTE Academic test as evidence of your English proficiency, it’s essential to understand the new criteria.

Under the new standard, candidates must demonstrate their English language skills through an approved test—such as the PTE Academic, IELTS, OET, or TOEFL iBT—meeting the minimum scores specified by the NMBA. The updates aim to ensure better alignment with international benchmarks and to guarantee that all healthcare professionals have the required communication skills for safe and effective practice.

For PTE Academic test takers, it is important to note that the scores now need to be achieved in one sitting, and within a two-year validity period prior to your application for registration. In addition, the NMBA may now require evidence that your test scores reflect your true level of proficiency, including consistent results across all four language components—listening, reading, writing, and speaking.

This change emphasizes the importance of focused and comprehensive test preparation. If you’re aiming for a career in Australia’s healthcare system, now is the time to ensure your English skills are at the level required. Choose a reliable coaching center, take regular mock tests, and stay updated with NMBA’s latest standards to ensure a smooth path toward your nursing or midwifery career in Australia.

So, what’s new? And how does PTE Academic fit in?

Let’s break it down 

The Accepted Tests (Including PTE Academic)

Several English language tests are still accepted by the NMBA, including:

• PTE Academic
• IELTS (Academic)
• OET
• TOEFL iBT
• Cambridge C1 Advanced / C2 Proficiency

And yes, PTE Academic is officially approved for registration!

New PTE Requirements (Effective from 18 March 2025)

If you’re planning to use the PTE Academic to meet the English language proficiency requirement for NMBA registration, it’s important to understand the newly updated scoring standards.

From 18 March 2025, candidates must achieve:

• Overall score: Minimum of 66
• Individual component scores:
  • Listening: 66
  • Reading: 66
  • Speaking: 66
  • Writing: Minimum of 56

These updated score requirements highlight the need for strong communication skills across all areas, with a particular focus on ensuring a good command of spoken and comprehension skills while allowing slightly more flexibility in the writing component.

It’s also crucial to note that all scores must be achieved in a single sitting of the PTE Academic test, and the test results must be less than two years old at the time of applying for registration.

For internationally qualified nurses and midwives, or Australian graduates from non-English speaking backgrounds, this update is a key step towards ensuring safe, clear, and effective communication in clinical settings.

To meet these new benchmarks confidently, thorough preparation is essential. Consider enrolling in a trusted PTE coaching program, practicing with realistic mock tests, and focusing on improving your weaker areas—especially if writing has been a challenge in past attempts. Reaching these scores will not only fulfill registration requirements but also boost your professional confidence in Australia’s healthcare environment.

These scores must be achieved either:

• In a single sitting, or
• Across two sittings within a 12-month period, with specific conditions:
  • Each component must meet the minimum score across the two sittings.
  • No score in any sitting can be below 56.

Validity of Test Results

Test results are valid if:

• Taken within 2 years before applying, OR
• Older than 2 years only if you’ve been:
  • Continuously working in a relevant health role in an English-speaking country, OR
  • Continuously enrolled in a Board-approved program since the test.

What Does This Mean for You as a PTE Test Taker?

If you’re preparing to register as a nurse or midwife in Australia and planning to take the PTE Academic as your proof of English proficiency, it’s essential to understand the NMBA’s updated requirements and prepare accordingly.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Target Scores: You must score at least 66 in Listening, Reading, and Speaking. These components reflect your ability to understand patients, collaborate with colleagues, and communicate clearly—critical skills in any healthcare setting.
2. Writing Component: While the minimum required score for Writing is 56, aiming for 66 or higher in all components is highly recommended. Achieving uniform high scores in one sitting reduces complications and the need for retests.
3. Two Test Sittings Option: The NMBA does allow you to combine scores from two sittings, but only if they are taken within 12 months of each other. In each sitting, no score should fall below a specified minimum, and all components must meet the acceptable range.
4. Plan Ahead: Make sure your test results are valid and current at the time of your application. Preparing early with regular practice, mock tests, and guidance from a reliable PTE coaching provider can greatly improve your chances of success.

Being well-prepared not only helps you meet the NMBA’s language requirements but also boosts your readiness to work in Australia’s fast-paced healthcare environment.

How Wings Education Can Help

At Wings Education, we specialise in PTE Academic coaching tailored specifically for professionals aiming to meet the latest NMBA English language registration standards. Whether you’re an internationally qualified nurse, midwife, or a recent graduate preparing for registration in Australia, our training programs are designed to get you there with confidence.

Here’s how we support your success:

• Targeted Writing Modules: Struggling with writing? Our intensive writing sessions focus on boosting your score beyond the NMBA’s required 56, helping you aim for the ideal 66+ to avoid multiple sittings.
• Listening & Reading Drills: Our comprehensive practice exercises are built to sharpen your skills and push your Listening and Reading scores well past the 66 mark.
• Personalised Mock Tests: Take full-length mock tests under real test conditions, followed by detailed feedback from experienced trainers. Each review is tailored to your career goals and the NMBA’s criteria.
• Flexible Scheduling: We understand the demands of working professionals. That’s why we offer evening and weekend online classes, so you can prepare effectively without disrupting your job.

Join hundreds of healthcare professionals who’ve successfully cleared the PTE Academic and moved closer to their Australian nursing or midwifery careers. At Wings Education, we don’t just train—we empower you to succeed.

Final Thoughts

The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) has revised its English language registration standards, making it clearer and more accessible for candidates to use PTE Academic as their chosen test. While this update is a positive step—especially for those more comfortable with computer-based exams—it also sets specific benchmarks that must be met in a single sitting or within a closely regulated two-test timeframe.

To recap, you’ll need a minimum overall score of 66, with 66 in Listening, Reading, and Speaking, and at least 56 in Writing. Although the lowered Writing requirement may seem more achievable, reaching 66 in all components is still highly recommended for a smoother registration process and to avoid retaking the test.

This is where strategic preparation comes into play. Whether you’re attempting the PTE Academic for the first time or retaking it to meet the new writing benchmark, focused and personalized training can significantly improve your performance. Generic study methods won’t guarantee success—what you need is targeted skill-building, practice with real exam-style questions, and constructive feedback from experienced PTE trainers.

At this stage, it’s crucial to invest your time in a trusted training program that understands the nuances of the NMBA standards. Regular mock tests, writing correction services, and guided speaking practice can elevate your scores while building your confidence.

Remember, your success in the PTE Academic is more than a score—it’s a vital step toward your future in Australia’s healthcare system. Prepare smart, and give yourself the best chance to succeed.