The rule for occupational therapists in Australia
The Occupational Therapy Board of Australia applies the common Ahpra test standard. An occupational therapist moving between UK and Australian applications must replace HCPC’s 1400-total comparison with four Australian component requirements. Ahpra’s 360 Reading target cannot be offset by extra Listening marks. For the two-sitting route, the earlier result still has to satisfy the specified floors, and both tests must include all four skills. Keep the complete score reports so you can check that eligibility before rebooking.
| Requirement | Occupational Therapy Board of Australia / Ahpra |
|---|---|
| Listening | 350 (B) |
| Reading | 360 (B) |
| Writing | 350 (B) |
| Speaking | 360 (B) |
| One sitting / combining | Up to two sittings within 12 months can be combined. You must sit all four sub-tests each time, and neither sitting can go below Listening 320, Reading 340, Writing 350 or Speaking 350. Results from a different English test can't be mixed in. |
| Validity | 2 years. If you combine two sittings, the 2 years run from the earlier one. |
| OET@Home accepted? | Not accepted. Paper-based tests and computer tests at a test venue are accepted; the boards have accepted the remotely delivered Speaking part of a venue computer test. |
| Profession version | Ahpra accepts any profession-specific OET test; these practice links use occupational therapy. |
Last checked 21 Oct 2026. Official rule ↗
What to aim for in practice
Build an Occupational Therapy conversation around a daily activity the patient wants to regain. Explore how the current limitation affects washing, dressing or another task in the role card, and discuss an adaptation the person understands. In Writing, explain the practical consequences of reduced dexterity or cognition for the receiving service; avoid a list of impairments without a request. Use the Australian 350 Writing requirement to focus feedback on relevant content and a clear purpose, as well as language accuracy.
| Skill | Official component target / floor | OETAce conservative practice guide |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | 350 (B) | 32/42 gives an estimated 350–370 |
| Reading | 360 (B) | 33/42 gives an estimated 360–380 |
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 Occupational Therapy practice
Occupational Therapy guide and sample tasks · Occupational therapists role-play cards · Sample letter task
Speaking cards
- Handwriting difficulties: is my son just lazy? Paediatric occupational therapy clinic
- Refusing a shower chair before discharge after hip replacement Orthopaedic hospital ward
- Child will not wear her hand splint after a burn Hand therapy outpatient clinic
Writing case notes
- Home safety follow-up after wrist fracture referral letter
- Rheumatoid arthritis flare limiting work tasks update letter
- Transfer of care for a child with developmental coordination disorder referral letter
Free full Listening test · Free Reading Part A · Practice plans and prices
Questions candidates ask
What OET score do occupational therapists need in Australia?
Australia Occupational Therapy Board of Australia / Ahpra: occupational therapists need Listening 350 (B), Reading 360 (B), Writing 350 (B) and Speaking 360 (B) for tests from 23 April 2026; OET@Home is not accepted.
Can occupational therapists combine OET sittings for Australia?
Up to two sittings within 12 months can be combined. You must sit all four sub-tests each time, and neither sitting can go below Listening 320, Reading 340, Writing 350 or Speaking 350. Results from a different English test can't be mixed in.
How long are OET results valid for occupational therapists in Australia?
2 years. If you combine two sittings, the 2 years run from the earlier one.
Other destinations for occupational therapists: UK.
Sources
Last checked 21 Oct 2026. Rules and prices change: confirm on the official page before you book or apply.
OETAce is an independent practice site. OET is a registered trademark of Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment (CBLA); we are not affiliated with or endorsed by CBLA. All practice material here is original.