The rule for physiotherapists in Australia
Physiotherapists registering in Australia need the numeric Ahpra profile, not the total-score model used by the UK HCPC. Under the April 2026 scores, 350 in Reading and 370 in Speaking cannot be averaged to meet two 360 requirements: Reading remains short. The Physiotherapy Board falls under the common standard, which accepts profession-specific OET tests and excludes at-home delivery. A venue computer sitting is a different arrangement, including the permitted remote Speaking component described by Ahpra.
| Requirement | Physiotherapy 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 physiotherapy. |
Last checked 21 Oct 2026. Official rule ↗
What to aim for in practice
Use the Physiotherapy cards to practise a rehabilitation discussion with someone afraid that movement will worsen pain. Ask about the concern before explaining the activity plan, then check what the patient feels able to try. A progress letter should distinguish remaining limitations from improvements already achieved, and make the follow-up request concrete. For the Australian thresholds, review these communication skills alongside the lower end of your Reading estimate rather than converting two strong skills into an overall average.
| 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 Physiotherapy practice
Physiotherapy guide and sample tasks · Physiotherapists role-play cards · Sample letter task
Speaking cards
- Knee pain in a young footballer Physiotherapy clinic
- Back pain - the patient wants a scan and bed rest Physiotherapy clinic
- Physiotherapist: breathing exercises and getting out of bed after open bowel surgery Surgical ward
Writing case notes
- Frozen shoulder - progress has plateaued update letter
- ACL reconstruction rehab - patient relocating referral letter
- Discharge to pulmonary rehabilitation after COPD exacerbation referral letter
Free full Listening test · Free Reading Part A · Practice plans and prices
Questions candidates ask
What OET score do physiotherapists need in Australia?
Australia Physiotherapy Board of Australia / Ahpra: physiotherapists 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 physiotherapists 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 physiotherapists in Australia?
2 years. If you combine two sittings, the 2 years run from the earlier one.
Other destinations for physiotherapists: 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.