The OET (the Occupational English Test) is a test specifically designed for people working in the healthcare sector and with an emphasis on communication in a healthcare environment. In this test, all four language skills are assessed and the writing and speaking tests are available in 12 different areas. The areas are
Dentistry, Dietetics, Medicine, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Optometry, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Radiography, Speech Pathology, and Veterinary Science. Everybody does the same listening and reading parts of the exam.
| Paper | Contents | |
| Listening 45 mins | The test is the same for everybody irrespective of their role. This part of the exam tests your ability to read and understand different types of texts on health-related subjects. | |
| Speaking 30 mins | You will take part in two role-plays specific to your professional role. You will be ‘yourself’ while the examiner plays the role of a patient, client, carer or relative. | |
| Reading 60 mins | You will take part in two role-plays specific to your professional role. You will be ‘yourself’ while the examiner plays the role of a patient, client, carer, or relative. | |
| Writing 45 mins | This part of the test is specific to your professional role. The task is to write a referral letter. There are some alternative letters possible depending on your role. |
How long do I have to wait to get my OET Test results?
Usually about 12 business days after taking the exam.
Can I give organisations permission to view my results?
The OET platform allows you to manage which organisations can view and verify your results, as well as to remove access to your results at any time.
How long are my OET Test results valid for?
Each organisation has its own set of requirements for proving your English language proficiency. The validity period of your OET Test results depends on the organisation you’ll be applying to, you'll need to contact the organisation's HR who will be able to give you a specific answer.
Can I reschedule my OET Test to a different date?
Yes, you can. Though there is an additional cost, please check the OET website to learn the exact amount.
What mark do I need to pass?
This will depend on why you're taking the test, the job you'll be doing and where you're going. Recognising Organisations (ROs) decide what OET Test scores to use based on the level of English language proficiency they require for their purpose. ROs generally accept scores of 300 and up (C+ or B) in one or all sub-tests. However, you will need to check with the relevant organisations that regulate your profession. The HR department of the RO will be able to help you.
What do the scores mean?
The OET Test has been benchmarked to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), an international standard for describing language ability.
OET numeric Score | OET letter grade | OET band descriptors | CEFR band |
500-450 | A | Can communicate very fluently and effectively with patients and health professionals using appropriate register, tone and lexis. Shows complete understanding of any kind of written or spoken language. | C2 |
440-400 | B | Can communicate effectively with patients and health professionals using appropriate register, tone and lexis, with only occasional inaccuracies and hesitations. Shows good understanding in a range of clinical contexts. | C1 |
390-350 | |||
340-300 | C+ | Can maintain the interaction in a relevant healthcare environment despite occasional errors and lapses, and follow standard spoken language normally encountered in his/her field of specialisation. | B2 |
290-250 | C | ||
240-200 |