Registered Nurse Bridging Program (Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing – Australian Nursing Practice)
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Delivery Mode: On Campus
Hybrid -
Accreditation: TEQSA
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AQF Level: 08
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Course Duration: 26 Weeks
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CRICOS Course Code: 107773K
About the Course
The Registered Nurse Bridging Program (GCAN-ANP) at IHM offers Internationally Qualified Registered Nurses a pathway to achieve nursing registration in Australia while obtaining a postgraduate nursing qualification. Designed to meet the needs of overseas registered nurses, our program provides essential knowledge and skills for Australian nursing practice. This ensures nurses are well-prepared to become registered nurses in Australia. Additionally, IHM offers an attractive scholarship to support nurses in their preparation for Australian nursing registration.
AQF Level
8
*At IHM, we are dedicated to supporting your journey towards Australian Nursing registration.
*This course does not lead to Direct Nursing Registration in Australia, Nurses aspiring to become Registered Nurses in Australia must need NMBA approved English Language Requirements and pass NCLEX & OSCE for Australia.
Key Benefits of the RN Bridging Program (GCAN-ANP)
On Campus Mode of Delivery:
- Program Fees: $12,000
- On Campus Component: Includes 4 weeks of hands-on OSCE preparation
On Campus Benefits in Australia
- On Campus: Study on a student visa with work rights
- Continued Support:
- If registration is not completed within the program, students recieve guidance to continue with IHM’s Master of Nursing program
- Master of Nursing Benefits
- Eligibility for 1 semester credit transfer
Hybrid Mode of Delivery
- Program Fees: $12,000
- On Campus Component: Includes 4 weeks of hands-on OSCE preparation
Details about the Course
Course delivery structure:
- Online Delivery of N9001 and NCLEX-RN exam preparation: To facilitate flexibility and convenience for students, we IHM offers the N9001 unit and Online NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation Course.
- This course will equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills required to successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam and gain extensive knowledge about Australian nursing practice. Allowing sufficient time for students to prepare for and pass the NCLEX-RN exam will enhance their chances of meeting the requirements for nursing registration in Australia.
- On campus Delivery of Remaining Units: The remaining two units, N8001 and N8002, will be offered to students when they are physically present in Australia on a visitor visa. Students will be studying these two units as theory component along with the 8 weeks of OSCE preparation at IHM’s Nursing simulation labs which assist them to prepare for the OSCE exam as part of the registration process (OBA) at Adelaide Health Simulation Centre, Australia
This on campus delivery approach ensures that students have firsthand exposure to the Australian healthcare system and can apply their learning in a practical setting. It will also create opportunities for networking and interaction with local healthcare professionals.
Application and Initial Payment: Submit RN Bridging Program (GCAN-ANP) application and pay an initial deposit of $5,000 to begin the AHPRA application process, NCLEX preparation, and online course units.
Online Study and NCLEX Preparation: Start RN Bridging Program (GCAN-ANP) course units and NCLEX preparation while awaiting AHPRA application progress.
NCLEX Examination: Appear for the NCLEX examination after adequate preparation.
Successful Completion: Pass NCLEX and complete RN Bridging Program (GCAN-ANP) online units.
Travel to Australia: Upon AHPRA invitation for the OSCE test, and paying the remaining course fees of $7,000, travel to Australia on a Visitor visa or a 6-month Student Visa.
On-Campus Study and OSCE Preparation: Complete remaining course units and OSCE preparation, then appear for the OSCE exam.
AHPRA Registration: Obtain AHPRA registration after passing the OSCE exam and meeting English test requirements.
Further Study or Residency:
a. Continue studying the Master of Nursing course at IHM with a
1-semester credit transfer.
b. Alternatively, apply for permanent residency in Australia
- AQF level 8
- 26 weeks
- Hybrid mode (Online + On campus combination) and On Campus
- TEQSA accreditation
To be eligible for admission to the Registered Nurse Bridging Program (GCAN-ANP), an applicant is required to:
- Have completed a Bachelor of Nursing degree a Post Bachelor’s degree in Nursing
- Be an AHPRA registered nurse; or
- Be a registered nurse with the Nurses’ Board/Council from the country of origin or place of residence
- Have completed NCLEX successfully.
- Have an Overall score of IELTS with a minimum score of 7.0 in Listening, Reading, and Speaking. Writing 6.5 or equivalent.
English Language Proficiency Entry Requirements has to be met by the student
English Language Proficiency Entry RequirementsRegistered Nurse Bridging Program (Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing – Australian Nursing Practice) offered by IHM opens up a world of opportunities for nurses seeking to enhance their career prospects in Australia. By enrolling in this specialised program, you can expect a range of benefits and pathways to professional success.
- Professional Qualification: The RN Bridging Program (GCAN-ANP) course equips you with a prestigious postgraduate nursing qualification recognized in Australia and beyond. This qualification demonstrates your commitment to professional development and positions you as a highly skilled nurse in the competitive healthcare industry.
- Australian Nursing Registration: The RN Bridging Program (GCAN-ANP) course is designed as a complete solution for overseas nurses preparing for the Outcomes Based Assessment, which includes the NCLEX-RN exam and Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). Through a combination of online learning, exam preparation, and practical onsite experience, you will be well-prepared to meet the challenges of these assessments and increase your chances of success.
- Integration with the Australian Healthcare System: The onsite components of the course provide you with firsthand exposure to the Australian healthcare system. By participating in Australian Nursing Practice (N8001) and Professional Reflection in Australian Nursing Practice (N8002) in a local setting, you will gain valuable insights, develop cultural competence, and establish professional connections within the industry.
- Enhanced Employability: With the RN Bridging Program (GCAN-ANP) qualification and Australian nursing registration, you will enhance your employability in the Australian nursing market. Employers value the knowledge, skills, and cultural competence acquired through this program, making you a sought-after candidate for a wide range of nursing positions.
- Continued Professional Development: The RN Bridging Program (GCAN-ANP) course is just the beginning of your professional journey. Theknowledge and skills gained during this program lay a solid foundation for further career advancement and ongoing professional development opportunities. You can explore options such as pursuing higher degrees, you will get 1 semester full credit transfer to IHM’s Master of Nursing course, and only need to study 1.5 years more to gain Master of Nursing qualifcition.
Course Structure and Delivery
Three units constitute the Registered Nurse Bridging Program course (GCAN-ANP). One core unit and two units of specialisation.
Unit Code |
Unit Name |
Credit Points |
This course includes eight weeks OSCE in preparation for OBA registration testing in Australia.
Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs) are as follows:
- CLO 1.Integrate knowledge of the healthcare system to critically analyse the impact of socio‐political issues and health policies on the scope of nursing practice.
- CLO 2.Synthesise specialised nursing and pathophysiological knowledge when conducting nursing assessments in the provision of optimal specialised treatment and management of complex health conditions of patients.
- CLO 3.Apply analytical and reflective skills in planning, prioritising and implementing person‐centred specialised nursing care in challenging and diverse clinical situations.
- CLO 4.Demonstrate professional physical and cultural safety and capability when providing specialised person‐centred care to individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- CLO 5.Apply expert professional judgement, accountability, and responsibility when providing optimal specialised person‐ centred nursing care.
- CLO 6.Facilitate the empowerment of self and others, through positive and effective communication within a highly specialised, multicultural and multidisciplinary approach to safe practice.
- CLO 7.Critically analyse legal, ethical, social, cultural and political dynamics impacting on specialised person‐centred nursing practice in a diverse and multicultural healthcare environment.
- CLO 8.Appraise evidence‐based nursing research and knowledge to inform critical clinical decision‐ making when providing quality and safe specialised nursing care that will enhance health outcomes of health consumers.
Course Start Dates
| Course Intake | Course Start Date | Course End Date | Census Date | Orientation Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| August 2025 | 04-08-2025 | 02-02-2026 | 10-09-2025 | 04-08-2025 |
| September 2025 | 01-09-2025 | 31-08-2026 | 13-10-2025 | 01-09-2025 |
| November 2025 | 03-11-2025 | 02-11-2026 | 15-12-2025 | 03-11-2025 |
| March 2026 | 02-03-2026 | 31-08-2026 | 07-04-2026 | 02-03-2026 |
| July 2026 | 06-07-2026 | 04-01-2027 | 11-08-2026 | 06-07-2026 |
| November 2026 | 02-11-2026 | 03-05-2027 | 08-12-2026 | 02-11-2026 |
| March 2027 | 01-03-2027 | 30-08-2027 | 06-04-2027 | 01-03-2027 |
| July 2027 | 05-07-2027 | 03-01-2028 | 10-08-2027 | 05-07-2027 |
On Campus Mode of Delivery:
- Pre-course inclusions:
- NCLEX Test Preparation: Full scholarship for IHM’s NCLEX test preparation course.
- IELTS/PTE Test Preparation: Partnership with E2 English for preparation towards AHPRA English test requirements.
- Optional, Certificate III Courses: 50% scholarship for Certificate III in Individual Support course, offered by IHNA, which enables part-time employment as an AIN or carer while studying the Bridging Course on a student visa in Australia.
- AHPRA Application Assistance: “MWT Consultancy” assists nurses with their AHPRA nursing registration process at an additional cost.
Hybrid Mode of Delivery
- Pre-course inclusions:
- AHPRA Application Assistance: IHM assists nurses with their AHPRA nursing registration process at no additional cost
- NCLEX Test Preparation: Full scholarship for IHM’s NCLEX test preparation course
- IELTS/PTE Test Preparation: Partnership with E2 English for preparation towards AHPRA English test requirements
- Certificate III Courses: Full scholarship for either Certificate III in Individual Support or Certificate IV in Health Service Assistance, enabling part-time employment as AIN or carer while studying
Fee Detail:
| Total Tuition Fee: | AUD $12,000 |
| Administration (Non-Tuition) Fee : **Only applicable to international students. |
**AUD $250 (Non Refundable) |
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FEE-HELP is an Australian government loan program designed to assist eligible fee-paying students in paying their tuition fees for higher education courses at approved institutions. It operates similarly to the HECS-HELP scheme but applies to students undertaking fee-paying undergraduate, postgraduate, or vocational education and training (VET) courses at approved providers.
Through FEE-HELP, eligible students can borrow funds from the government to cover all or part of their tuition fees, and they repay the loan through the taxation system once their income reaches a certain threshold. This system aims to make tertiary education more accessible to students by allowing them to defer their upfront tuition costs until they are earning a sufficient income.
If you are an internationally qualified nurse or midwife (IQNM) who wishes to register in Australia, you will need to complete the Self-check before applying for registration. This is an online check where you will need to enter your qualification information into the Self-check. Based on your qualification you will be assigned to one of three streams for registration. The three streams are:
- Stream A – IQNMs who hold a qualification considered to be substantially equivalent, or based on similar competencies, to an approved qualification
- Stream B – IQNMs who hold a qualification that is relevant to the profession, but is not substantially equivalent, nor based on similar competencies to an approved qualification
- Stream C – IQNMs who hold a qualification that is not substantially equivalent or relevant to an approved qualification
*There is no fee to use the Self-check.
IQNMs that do not hold a relevant qualification (under section 53 of the National Law) or do not meet the required assessment criteria will need to upgrade their qualification in Australia before being eligible to apply for registration.
Click here to know more!- Those who successfully complete the self-check must proceed in the IQNM assessment process.
- For IQNM assessment process students will need to pay a non-refundable assessment fee of $640 AUD.
- This fee contributes towards AHPRA’s costs in checking IQNM documentation provided, and for the IQNM to undertake their orientation. This process may take upto 6 weeks.
90 mins of video orientation and quiz based on that video.
At this stage you will have to upload all the attested documents as required.
Multiple choice questions exam, the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is an online test taken through Pearson VUE test centres in most countries.
- A clinical exam to assess whether candidates demonstrate the knowledge, skills and competence of a graduate-level nurse or midwife from an Australian NMBA-approved program of study.
- The OSCE will simulate a clinical environment and “patient” scenarios which Registered Nurses are likely to encounter when they assess, plan, implement and evaluate care. Nurses are expected to utilise a contemporary evidence base and effectively demonstrate the safe practical application of nursing skills.
- The fee for sitting the OSCE is $4,000 AUD. The OSCE fee replaces previous bridging program fees from private providers. This fee pays for AHPRA’s costs in running and maintaining the OSCE. AHPRA and the NMBA are funded only by fees, which must cover all costs of assessing IQNMs for registration in Australia.
This e- learning module must be completed within the first 6 months of becoming a registered nurse in Australia.
For more Information
- Download a PDF copy of this Fact sheet: Transition to a new assessment model for internationally qualified nurses and midwives
- Visit the Internationally qualified nurses and midwives section of the NMBA website
- Visit the Registration standards section of the NMBA website
At IHM, we have dedicated admission staff members who are able to assist you throughout the process. It is highly recommended that you apply for this course by clicking the “apply now” button. You will be contacted by a member of the admissions staff, who will provide you with relevant assistance, such as guidance with the AHPRA registration process, guidance with the processing of visas, and orientation to Australian student life, as well as short courses to gain jobs while studying in Australia.
Modes of Delivery
We understand the diverse circumstances of our students, which is why we offer two distinct modes of delivery to suit individual preferences and situations:
Hybrid Delivery with NCLEX and OSCE Preparation
For working nurses who wish to continue their current job overseas, our
online
delivery option allows them to conveniently access the course materials. With a
dedicated NCLEX preparation component for three months, after passing the NCLEX-RN
online exam students they will then travel to Australia to effectively prepare for the
OSCE examination upon receiving the AHPRA letter to appear for the OSCE exam.
*International students are not permitted to complete
more than one-third of their subjects online.
On-Campus Delivery on a Student Visa
Designed for nurses who prefer to travel to Australia, this option provides an immersive experience. Students studying on a student visa can work and study concurrently, enabling them to gain practical experience in Australian healthcare settings while preparing for the Outcomes Based Assessment.
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