What the IQN theoretical exam actually tests
Since 2023, NCNZ assesses internationally qualified nurses by direct testing rather than relying only on paperwork. If you're directed to a competence assessment, the first stage is an online theoretical exam sat at an accredited Pearson VUE centre, either overseas or in New Zealand.
The exam has two parts, and both are based on New Zealand's own domestic State Final Examination standard — not a generic international nursing syllabus:
- Part A — Medication safety. Calculation, administration and safety-checking questions set against New Zealand medicines and protocols.
- Part B — Nursing knowledge. Scenario-based questions on assessment, clinical reasoning, prioritisation and scope of practice as defined in Aotearoa.
Most candidates who don't prepare specifically for this exam lose marks not because their nursing is weak, but because the expected answer follows a New Zealand protocol that differs from what they trained under. That's the gap our course closes.
What's covered in the course
- Format
- Online classes, 3 sessions a week, plus recorded sessions for revision.
- Duration
- Typically 6–8 weeks, depending on your starting point — confirmed after your diagnostic assessment.
- Part A focus
- Drug calculations, medication administration rights, high-alert medicines, and documentation standards used in New Zealand practice.
- Part B focus
- Clinical scenarios covering adult, maternal, mental health and paediatric nursing, escalation of care, and New Zealand's scope-of-practice framework.
- Practice exams
- Full-length, timed mock exams that mirror the Pearson VUE interface, with a detailed score breakdown after each attempt.
- Support
- Doubt-clearing sessions and a study group so you're never preparing alone.
IQN Training FAQs
Where do I sit the actual exam?
The IQN theoretical exam is delivered through Pearson VUE's accredited test centres, which operate both in New Zealand and internationally, including in India. We'll help you book a centre near you once you're ready.
Do I need to pass Part A and Part B together?
Check your specific requirement with NCNZ when they issue your competence assessment direction — our course prepares you for both parts fully regardless, so you're ready either way.
What happens if I don't pass?
NCNZ allows re-sits. We offer a revision-focused top-up track for candidates who need to re-sit, targeted at the specific part and topics you were short on.
Can I start IQN training before I've passed OET or IELTS?
You can start building your theory knowledge in parallel, but NCNZ will need your English-language evidence as part of your application. We usually recommend clearing English first so nothing holds up your file.