The Oman Medical Specialty Board (OMSB) is the official authority responsible for licensing, training, and certifying healthcare professionals in Oman. Whether you’re a doctor, dentist, pharmacist, nurse, or allied health professional, understanding the OMSB process is crucial for your career in Oman.
Why an OMSB license is required?
An OMSB license is mandatory for:
Practicing Medicine: All healthcare professionals must be licensed to practice in Oman.
Employment: Required by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and private institutions.
Training Programs: Necessary for admission into OMSB residency or fellowship programs.
Who is eligible to sit the OMSB exam ?
Eligibility criteria vary by profession:
Physicians: Must hold a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) or equivalent.
Dentists: Must possess a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) or equivalent.
Pharmacists: Required to have a Bachelor of Pharmacy or equivalent.
Nurses and Allied Health Professionals: Must meet specific educational and professional standards set by OMSB.
OMSB license — Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Primary Source Verification (PSV) via DataFlow
Purpose: To authenticate your educational and professional credentials.
Process:
Visit the DataFlow Group website to initiate the verification process.
Submit your documents, including educational certificates, experience certificates, professional licenses, passport copy, and CV.
Pay the applicable fee (varies based on the number of documents).
Wait for the verification outcome: Positive, Negative, or Unable to Verify.
Duration: Typically takes up to 35 working days.
Step 2: OMSB Selection Examination
Purpose: Assess your medical knowledge and readiness for residency programs.
Format: Consists of two examination forms, each with 80 single-best-answer questions.
Application:
Visit the OMSB Portal
Log in or create an account.
Complete the application form and upload required documents.
Pay the examination fee.
Preparation: Study the relevant medical literature and guidelines.
Step 3: Interview Process
Purpose: Evaluate your suitability for the residency program.
Conducted by: Specialty Education Committees.
Preparation:
Review your application, personal statement, and relevant experiences.
Prepare to discuss your motivation, career goals, and specialty choice.
Practice common interview questions.
Resources: OMSB provides an Application and Interview Guide
with detailed information on the application process, CV writing, personal statement, and interview preparation.
Step 4: Training Program Admission
Requirements:
Successful completion of the selection examination and interview.
Submission of all required documents as per OMSB guidelines.
Medical fitness assessment.
Duration: Varies by specialty; refer to specific program details.
Note: Admission to OMSB training programs is competitive. Ensure all application materials are complete and submitted on time.
Step 5: Occupational Classification Examination (If Applicable)
Purpose: Assess the competencies of healthcare professionals to practice in Oman.
Registration:
Visit Pearson VUE OMSB to register for the examination.Select the appropriate examination based on your profession.Choose a test center and schedule your examination.
Note: OMSB Occupational Classification examinations are required for licensing purposes and are used by the Ministry of Health and other governmental and private institutions.
Step 6: Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Purpose: Maintain and enhance your knowledge, skills, and competencies in clinical practice.
Registration:
Register on the OMSB CPD Portal
Document and reflect on your participation in CPD activities.
Requirements:
Complete CPD activities regularly.
Earn credit points as per OMSB guidelines.
Submit CPD records for verification.
Note: Participation in the OMSB-CPD program is an integral requirement for all healthcare providers in Oman and is necessary for license renewal.
General document requirements
Educational Certificates: Bachelor’s degree and transcripts in your field.
Internship Completion Certificate: Proof of internship completion.
Professional Experience: Details of clinical experience, if applicable.
Identification: Valid passport copy.
Language Proficiency: Valid IELTS or OET scores, if required.
Recommendation Letters: Typically from consultants or supervisors.
Additional Certifications: Any relevant international exams or qualifications.