About NZREX

Most overseas doctors looking to practise medicine in New Zealand must gain registration from the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ).

For this purpose you must take the New Zealand Registration Examination (NZREX).

Check to see if you are eligible for the NZREX pathway.

Once you pass the NZREX, it will be valid for 5 years, before which you must get registered with the MCNZ.

For more information on NZREX and related topics please feel free to browse topics in the menu on the top and the links below.

Here is some general info about the exam:

- its (usually) held 3 times a year. There have been recent changes to the exam schedule as there are very limited number of job opportunities after you pass the exam!

- most overseas graduates (who don't come from a comparable healthcare system) need to take the exam to work in NZ as a doctor.

- once you pass the exam, you must apply to work as a 1st year house officer (yes, you get paid). Most people get a Work visa once they get a job.

- once you pass the NZREX, there are no exams to get into a post-graduate specialty (un-verified info)

- in about a year or so, after yo start working, you may apply for a Residence Visa if you don't already have one.

- salaries for house officers are quiet competitive and are governed by the RDA-MECA.

- Observerships (before or after the exam) are free and pretty easy get as long as you apply well in advance and are not as easily available as they used to be. Only a few selected DHB currently offer observerships for NZREX candidates.

- you can take the NZREX while on a visitors visa, you don't need any special visa or a students visa.

- the average passing rate is usually around 50 - 60%

- work on your communication skills for the exam!

- get some tips for the exam from successful candidates

Sources: Various online resources like the MCNZ website, RxPG, Facebook and Orkut NZREX groups, AIPPG and other blogs.

P.S. This website is for information purposes only and is in no way directly/indirectly affiliated with MCNZ or NZREX. All information provided here is obtained from various other online resources which may not be accurate. Our motive is to help fellow NZREX candidates with as much information as possible.