Your comprehensive guide to working as a nurse in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia remains a top destination for Filipino nurses. To work there, you must pass the Prometric exam administered by the SCFHS.
What is the Prometric Exam?
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Administering Body | SCFHS (Saudi Commission for Health Specialties) |
| Testing Partner | Prometric Testing Centers |
| Exam Type | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Location | Available in the Philippines (Manila, Cebu) |
| Language | English |
Exam Format
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Questions | 100 multiple-choice items |
| Duration | 2.5-3 hours |
| Passing Score | 60% or as specified by SCFHS |
Content Areas
- Fundamentals of Nursing (20-25%) — Basic care, vital signs, infection control
- Medical-Surgical Nursing (30-35%) — Adult health, perioperative care
- Pharmacology (15-20%) — Drug calculations, medication administration
- Maternal-Child Nursing (10-15%) — Obstetric and pediatric care
- Psychiatric Nursing (5-10%) — Mental health disorders
Eligibility Requirements
- ✅ BSN degree from recognized nursing school
- ✅ Valid PRC nursing license
- ✅ Valid passport
- ✅ No criminal record
Registration Process
- Create SCFHS Account — Register at SCFHS website
- Submit Documents — Upload and pay evaluation fees
- Receive Eligibility — Get Prometric eligibility letter
- Schedule Exam — Book at Prometric website
- Take the Exam — Arrive with required IDs
Study Tips
- Prioritize Medical-Surgical — Largest content area (30-35%)
- Master Drug Calculations — Pharmacology is critical
- Practice CBT Format — Simulate actual exam conditions
- Focus on Clinical Scenarios — Expect case-based questions
After Passing
- Receive results (2-4 weeks)
- Apply for Dataflow verification (4-8 weeks)
- Secure job offer from Saudi employer
- Process work visa
- Complete POEA requirements
Working in Saudi Arabia
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | Competitive, tax-free income |
| Accommodation | Often provided by employer |
| Contract Length | Usually 2-3 years |
| Leave | Annual vacation with round-trip ticket |
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Prometric exam?
Moderately challenging. With proper preparation, most nurses pass on their first attempt.
How long should I prepare?
3-6 months recommended, depending on your clinical experience.
Can I retake if I fail?
Yes, after a waiting period (usually 3 months).
Resources: scfhs.org.sa | prometric.com