Steps of NZREX Exam Preparation and Registration
- Follow steps required to write AMC1/PLAB1/USMLE 1 and 2
- Create an account on the MCNZ website and provide details for identification and that of primary medical degree
- Validate the exam results that required to become eligible to write the NZREX
- Prepare for an OSCE based exam
- Clear NZREX
- Clear IELTS/OET
- Apply for clinical observerships/rotations/housemanships
- Register with MCNZ as a practitioner
NZREX Overview
A prospective candidate is eligible to appear for the NZREX only after they have successfully cleared either AMC1, PLAB 1 or USMLE step 1 and step 2. After clearing these exams the candidate must create an account with the MCNZ before applying for the NZREX
The NZREX is a clincial exam that includes 12 assessed stations and 2-4 rest stations. Each station is timed for 12 minutes each.
The stations are designed in the OSCE format and assesses both clinical and medical knowledge. The exam covers areas of -
- Communication
- Professionalism
- Cultural safety
- History taking
- Physical examination
- Investigations
- Clinical reasoning
- Management
Each station has a standardised patient and an examiner.
Exam Schedule:The NZREX is held thrice every year, the dates this year were/are March 8, June 14 and September 13 2025. These dates vary each year and it is advised to check the website regularly for updates regarding the dates. The exam is held in Auckland, New Zealand and candidates are expected to travel to the test centre to appear for the exam.
Booking and Registration: The exam can be booked via the MCNZ website and it is advised that eligibility criteria and verification of documents are completed on the webiste based account prior to booking the exam date.
Results and Attempts: Results are typically released withing 10 working days of the exam being held. Candidates must pass 7 of the 12 assessed stations to clear the exam. There is usually no limit to the number of attempts but it bodes better in terms of application acceptance to pass in minimal number of attempts.
NZREX tips
The MCNZ provides study material and guides to help candidates prepare for the exam. Apart from the reading material provided joining mock groups and role play study plans aid preparation. The candidates are advised to be apprised about the diversity and the healthcare system of New Zealand and prepare according to the basic standards of the healthcare system there.
