The rule for dietitians in UK
HCPC lists a profession-specific OET route for dietitians: a total of 1400, with every component at least 300. HCPC names the OET test as Dietary in its table. Match the profession on the booking and verification record rather than borrowing the Nursing version because the clinical topic looks familiar. HCPC requires a certificate no more than two years old when the application arrives and specifies testing at an official centre rather than at home.
| Requirement | HCPC: total 1400; each component at least 300 |
|---|---|
| Listening | 300 (C+) |
| Reading | 300 (C+) |
| Writing | 300 (C+) |
| Speaking | 300 (C+) |
| Required total | 1400; the component floors alone are insufficient |
| One sitting / combining | Combining OET sittings is not confirmed on the cited HCPC page; ask HCPC. |
| Validity | Certificate no more than two years old when HCPC receives the application. |
| OET@Home accepted? | No: HCPC requires an official test centre. |
| Profession version | Profession-specific OET version listed by HCPC. |
Last checked 24 Oct 2026. Official rule ↗
What to aim for in practice
For UK dietetics preparation, practise explaining a nutrition change through the foods the patient actually eats. Avoid replacing a conversation with a lecture about nutrients. The linked Dietetics letter task lets you select relevant dietary history and explain the requested follow-up to another professional. A 300 component result is only a floor: if all four results are 300, the total is 1200 and remains short of HCPC’s 1400. Compare the complete profile rather than celebrating four floor scores in isolation.
| Skill | Official component target / floor | OETAce conservative practice guide |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | 300 (C+) | 27/42 gives an estimated 300–320 |
| Reading | 300 (C+) | 27/42 gives an estimated 300–320 |
The figures above cover the component floors only. Add all four official scores and check the 1400 total separately.
These raw-mark ranges use the same estimate as our test marker. They are a study aid, not an official OET conversion or registration decision. Part A alone cannot predict a score for a full 42-question test. Review Writing and Speaking feedback separately.
Matching Dietetics practice
Dietetics guide and sample tasks · Dietitians role-play cards · Sample letter task
Speaking cards
- Toddler with iron deficiency and high milk intake Paediatric outpatient clinic
- Dietitian: first dietary advice after a type 2 diabetes diagnosis Community health centre (dietetics clinic)
- Weight loss in an aged care resident Aged care facility
Writing case notes
- Malnutrition in COPD - progress update update letter
- Gestational diabetes - patient relocating referral letter
- Update to the treating paediatrician: infant with cow's milk protein allergy and faltering growth update letter
Free full Listening test · Free Reading Part A · Practice plans and prices
Questions candidates ask
What OET score do dietitians need in UK?
UK HCPC: dietitians need a total OET score of 1400, with no component below 300, using the profession-specific test at an official centre.
Can dietitians combine OET sittings for UK?
Combining OET sittings is not confirmed on the cited HCPC page; ask HCPC.
How long are OET results valid for dietitians in UK?
Certificate no more than two years old when HCPC receives the application.
Other destinations for dietitians: all verified score rules.
Sources
Last checked 24 Oct 2026. Rules and prices change: confirm on the official page before you book or apply.
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