The rule for occupational therapists in UK
HCPC lists a profession-specific OET route for occupational therapists: a total of 1400, with every component at least 300. For occupational therapy, two scores of 300 and two of 400 total 1400 and clear the listed floor. A total of 1400 with one score of 290 fails the floor even if the remaining results are strong. 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
Occupational therapists can use the HCPC total to understand how strengths and weaknesses interact, but should still investigate every low component. Record a conversation about an adaptation for a daily activity, making sure the patient has explained their priorities before you propose equipment. For the letter, describe the functional consequence and the support needed from the receiving service. Add all four official component results when assessing the registration rule; the lower ends of practice ranges are only a conservative study aid.
| 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 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 UK?
UK HCPC: occupational therapists need a total OET score of 1400, with no component below 300, using the profession-specific test at an official centre.
Can occupational therapists 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 occupational therapists in UK?
Certificate no more than two years old when HCPC receives the application.
Other destinations for occupational therapists: Australia.
Sources
Last checked 24 Oct 2026. Rules and prices change: confirm on the official page before you book or apply.
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