If you’re an internationally trained nurse aiming to register with the UK Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), you’re likely familiar with the English language proficiency requirements. Traditionally, candidates have been asked to demonstrate their English skills through tests like OET (Occupational English Test) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System).

However, a new alternative has gained attention — Supporting Information from Employers (SIFE).

In this article, Fortuwest International Training and Education explores whether SIFE can replace OET/IELTS and what criteria you need to meet.

What Is SIFE?

SIFE stands for Supporting Information from Employers. It is a type of supplementary evidence that can be submitted to the NMC to demonstrate English language proficiency if you have not taken OET or IELTS.

SIFE is particularly helpful for nurses who:

• Completed their nursing education in a non-majority English-speaking country
• Have gained clinical experience in the UK, working with patients and healthcare teams in English

Can SIFE Be Accepted by the UK NMC?

Yes, in certain situations, NMC does accept SIFE in place of OET or IELTS, provided specific conditions are met.

To be eligible, you must:

• Have worked in an unregulated health or care role in the UK for at least 12 months full-time (or the part-time equivalent)
• Have had the same line manager for at least 6 months (or up to two managers who can together cover the 12-month period)
• Have your line manager (an NMC-registered professional) complete a form confirming your English language skills
• Have the form countersigned by a senior NMC registrant, typically Band 8a or equivalent, to validate the fairness of the process

Who Can Complete and Sign the SIFE Form?

• Your direct line manager should be an NMC registrant in a position of Band 6 or higher
• The form must be countersigned by someone in a Band 8a role or higher, or an equivalent level if working outside the NHS
• These professionals are expected to have observed your clinical communication in English with patients, families, and colleagues

What Additional Evidence Might Be Required?

Even with SIFE, the NMC may request additional proof that your education and assessment were delivered in English. You may be asked to:

• Provide documentation from your nursing education program
• Show that your training involved English as the primary language of instruction and assessment

If your training does not meet these criteria, or if your work experience in the UK is insufficient, you’ll be required to take OET or IELTS to meet the language requirement.

Alternatives to OET/IELTS Accepted by the UK NMC

In addition to SIFE, the UK NMC may accept the following alternatives:

• NMC-Approved Pre-Registration Programs: If you have completed a pre-registration nurse, midwife, or nursing associate program approved by the NMC, this can be accepted as valid proof of your English proficiency.
• Education from a Majority-English Speaking Country: If your nursing education was in a country where English is the majority spoken language, you may submit your program’s documentation for review under NMC guidelines.

Not Eligible for SIFE? Choose Fortuwest’s OET Crack Course for Nurses

If you do not meet the eligibility requirements for SIFE, don’t worry. Fortuwest International Training and Education offers a specialized OET Crack Course for nurses designed to help you:

• Build confidence in clinical communication
• Improve performance in reading, writing, listening, and speaking
• Pass the OET exam with flying colours

Our expert trainers and up-to-date materials ensure you’re well-prepared for the test and your future nursing career in the UK.

Conclusion: Is SIFE the Right Path for You?

SIFE can be a valid route to NMC registration, but only if you meet specific employment and language exposure criteria. It’s a great alternative for those already working in UK healthcare settings and who use English regularly in their professional roles.

However, if you’re not eligible for SIFE, taking the OET or IELTS remains the most straightforward and widely accepted method to meet the NMC’s English language requirements.

At Fortuwest International Training and Education, we’re here to help you navigate your path—whether that’s through preparing for OET or assisting with documentation for SIFE submissions.

📞 Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Nursing Career?

Whether you’re preparing for OET, considering SIFE, or unsure about your options—we’re here to help!

Contact Fortuwest International Training and Education today for expert guidance and world-class training support:

📱 Call Us:
+44 7778 077173
+44 7426 995777

📧 Email: wecare@fortuwestinternational.co.uk
📍 Visit Us: 70, Cove Road, Farnborough, GU14 0EN

Fortuwest International Training and Education – Empowering nurses to achieve global success through expert training, tailored support, and reliable pathways to UK registration.

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