IQN theory preparation
What is the NZ IQN Theory Exam?
The IQN (Internationally Qualified Nurse) Theory Exam is a computer-based test required as part of the Nursing Council of New Zealand’s (NCNZ) competence assessment pathway. It evaluates your nursing knowledge against NZ registered nurse or enrolled nurse standards of competence — covering medication safety, clinical knowledge, professional responsibility, and cultural safety, including Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the Code of Conduct.
For many internationally qualified nurses, this is the first major hurdle on the road to NZ registration — and it’s easy to underestimate how different the exam format and expectations are from what you studied at home.
Built on New Zealand Standards,
Not Generic Prep
Every module is written for the New Zealand competence assessment from the start — not adapted from a global curriculum.
What's Included
Structured theory review
Chapter-based content aligned to NCNZ competency standards, so you always know what you're being tested on and why
Question bank & quizzes
Practice questions with explanations, so mistakes become learning moments, not just wrong answers.
Timed mock exams
Realistic exam-condition practice to build pacing, stamina, and confidence before test day
Clinical reasoning case studies
Case-based learning to sharpen decision-making — not just memorised facts
Cultural safety modules
Dedicated content on NZ cultural safety and healthcare context, a core (and often overlooked) part of the exam
Progress tracking & feedback
See where you're strong and where to focus, so your study time goes where it matters most
Step-by-step guide
How learners use the IQN theory stage.
Move from learning the content to testing your readiness in a sequence that always makes the next step clear.
Start Your Theory Preparation
Access a clear study pathway for the assessment stage in front of you.
Study By Chapter
Work through focused lessons and key New Zealand nursing topics at your own pace.
Check Your Understanding
Use chapter quizzes and explanations to find and close knowledge gaps.
Test Your Readiness
Complete timed mock exams, review your result, and focus your final revision.
Who This Is For
- Filipino nurses preparing for NCNZ competence assessment
- Nurses who have (or are close to) their Authority to Take the Test
- Nurses who want NZ-specific preparation instead of generic international review
- Nurses balancing study with work or family commitments, who need a self-paced structure
Frequently Asked Questions
Ideally yes — the programme is designed for nurses who are already at or near the eligibility stage, so the content is most relevant to those actively preparing to sit the exam.
Yes — theory preparation is fully online and self-paced, so you can study from anywhere in the Philippines. (OSCE preparation includes a face-to-face component — see our OSCE Prep page.)
Our content is built specifically around NCNZ standards and taught by NZ-registered nurses — not adapted from a multi-country curriculum.
Typically yes — competence assessment usually requires the IQN theoretical examination before the clinical (OSCE) stage, though your specific NCNZ pathway may vary.
Yes — theory preparation is part of both packages. Elite adds one-on-one coaching and personalised feedback on top of the same core content.
- get started
Your NZ nursing registration journey starts with one step
Register your interest today and we’ll get in touch with everything you need to know about the first Praxis NZ cohort — intake dates, programme details, and how to get started.