NEBOSH Exam
A Complete Guide
If you’re searching for information on the NEBOSH exam, you’re likely preparing to enhance your career in health and safety. Whether you’re a working professional aiming to upskill or a fresher seeking your first qualification, this article is your complete guide to navigating the NEBOSH exam with confidence.
We’ve created this guide to answer the most common questions people search when they look up “NEBOSH exam” online. Let’s break down what the exam is, what it includes, how to register, and how to prepare for success.
What Is the NEBOSH Exam?
The NEBOSH exam is an assessment conducted by the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH)—a UK-based awarding body known for internationally recognized qualifications in occupational health, safety, and environmental management.
NEBOSH qualifications are respected around the globe and are often mandatory or highly preferred by employers in industries like oil & gas, construction, manufacturing, and logistics.
🎓 Types of NEBOSH Exams
Depending on the qualification you pursue, the structure and type of the NEBOSH exam will vary. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular NEBOSH qualifications and their respective exams:
1. NEBOSH International General Certificate (IGC)
Units: IG1 (Theory) and IG2 (Practical)
Exam Format:
IG1: Open Book Examination (OBE) with scenario-based questions.
IG2: Practical Risk Assessment submitted as a written report.
Pass Mark:
IG1: 45%
IG2: Pass/fail based on meeting criteria
2. NEBOSH International Diploma
Units: DI1, DI2, DI3
Exam Format:
All units are assessed by scenario-based assignments and a workplace-based case study.
Pass Mark: Graded as Pass, Credit, or Distinction
3. Other NEBOSH Certificate Exams
NEBOSH Process Safety Management (PSM)
NEBOSH Environmental Management Certificate
NEBOSH Health & Safety at Work Award
Each of these has varying formats, from multiple-choice to short written answers and risk assessments.
How to Register for the NEBOSH Exam
You cannot directly register for a NEBOSH exam through their official website. Instead, NEBOSH-approved Learning Partners like M2Y Global Academy handle both course enrollment and exam registration.
Steps:
Choose a NEBOSH-approved provider (like M2Y Global Academy)
Enroll in your desired course
Complete the course and assessments
Your learning partner will register you for the exam
You will receive login details for the NEBOSH exam portal
NEBOSH Exam Preparation Tips
The NEBOSH exams are not overly difficult if you’re prepared. However, they are analytical and based on real-world application, not just memorization. Here’s how to prep:
✅ 1. Study Smart with Approved Materials
Use official NEBOSH books and materials provided by your training center.
Watch recorded sessions if offered.
✅ 2. Practice Scenario-Based Questions
Especially for IGC and Diploma, practice applying theoretical concepts to workplace situations.
✅ 3. Understand the Marking Scheme
For example, in IG1, you may be asked to identify, explain, or evaluate—a deeper understanding of command words is essential.
✅ 4. Use Time Wisely
Open book exams allow reference material, but they are time-limited. Be sure to practice managing time during mock tests.
What Makes the NEBOSH Exam Unique?
Unlike traditional exams, the NEBOSH open-book format encourages real-world application. You’re expected to think like an HSE professional and address workplace risks in context.
This style:
Reflects your actual work environment
Develops critical thinking
Reduces rote memorization
Where Are NEBOSH Exams Conducted?
NEBOSH exams can now be taken remotely online or at approved exam centers depending on the course type and your location.
IGC and many certificate-level exams: Online Open Book Exam
Diploma-level units: Online assignments and submissions
HSW & Awards: Multiple-choice exams (sometimes in person)
Ask your provider for exam logistics when you enroll.
NEBOSH Exam Fees in India
Exam fees are typically included in the course fee charged by your provider. At M2Y Global Academy, here are the typical prices:
| NEBOSH Course | Fee (INR) |
|---|---|
| NEBOSH IGC | ₹45,000 |
| NEBOSH Diploma | ₹1,35,000 |
| PSM | ₹35,000 |
| EMC | ₹45,000 |
| HSW, RAW, Wellbeing | ₹22,000 each |
Note: Fees may vary depending on the mode (online/classroom) and support level provided.
NEBOSH Exam Results & Certification
When Will You Get Your NEBOSH Results?
Results for IGC are typically available 50 working days after the exam date.
Diploma results may take up to 10-12 weeks.
Certification:
A hard copy of the certificate is mailed to your address.
You can verify results and certificates online through the NEBOSH Learner Portal.
Career Impact of Passing the NEBOSH Exam
Clearing a NEBOSH exam, especially IGC or Diploma, unlocks a world of opportunities:
Job Roles: HSE Officer, Safety Engineer, Safety Supervisor, Safety Manager
Industries: Oil & Gas, Construction, Manufacturing, Transport, Warehousing
Countries: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Canada, UK, India, and more
Salaries: Starting from ₹25,000–₹1,00,000+ per month in India, and $1000–$6000 abroad
FAQs About the NEBOSH Exam
The NEBOSH exam is the assessment process for NEBOSH qualifications, such as the International General Certificate (IGC), International Diploma, and other specialized courses. It typically includes written assessments or scenario-based open book exams followed by a closing interview.
You must enroll through an accredited NEBOSH course provider. After completing the required training, the provider will register you for the exam. Many providers like M2Y Global Academy also offer online exam support and guidance.
While the exam is challenging, candidates who prepare thoroughly with practical examples and attend accredited training have a high success rate. Understanding the command words (e.g., "describe," "outline") is key to passing.
The NEBOSH IGC exam consists of one open-book assessment (IG1) with a 24-hour window, and a practical risk assessment (IG2) that must be completed and submitted by a set date.
Final Thoughts: Ready for the NEBOSH Exam?
If you’ve made it to the end of this guide, you’re clearly serious about advancing your HSE career. The NEBOSH exam is more than just a test—it’s a career-defining milestone.
Take the next step by choosing a reputable NEBOSH training provider like M2Y Global Academy, where you’ll receive:
Expert guidance
Personalized support
Mock exam practice
Internationally recognized certification
