An objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) is a modern type of examination often used in health sciences. In addition to nursing, this form of testing is used in other faculties such as midwifery, occupational therapy, orthoptics, optometry, medicine, physician assistants/associates, physical therapy, radiography, athletic training, rehabilitation medicine, dietetics, nursing, pharmacy, dentistry, chiropractic, paramedicine, podiatry, veterinary medicine, athletic training, etc.
It is a hands-on, real-world approach to learning that keeps examines engaged, allows them to understand the key factors that drive the medical decision-making process, and challenges the professional to be innovative and reveals their errors in case-handling and provides an open space for improved decision-making, based on evidence-based practice for real-world responsibilities.

In Canada, OSCE forms part of the evaluation process for internationally educated nurses (IEN). The other part comprises of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ)These evaluation process go by various names in depending on the province:
1. Alberta – ARNAP (Alberta Registered Nurses Assessment Program)
2. Ontario – IENCAP (Internationally Educated Nurses Competency Assessment Program)

ARNAP (Alberta Registered Nurses Assessment Program) is a standardized test for internationally educated nurses (IENs) seeking nursing registration in Alberta as a RN (Registered Nurse).
The test is designed to asses the candidates nursing skills including knowledge, skills and judgement. In addition, the ARNAP will also assess language proficiency and comprehension, performance in client interactions, ethics, and professionalism. 

IENCAP (Internationally Educated Nurses Competency Assessment Program) is a standardized evaluation of the knowledge, skill and judgment for internationally educated nurses (IENs) seeking to become RNs in Ontario.