The rule for physiotherapists in UK
HCPC lists a profession-specific OET route for physiotherapists: a total of 1400, with every component at least 300. The physiotherapy rule is a total-score rule, not simply four B grades. Four 350 scores total 1400, but there are other profiles that satisfy the listed total and floor. Do both calculations before deciding a result is unusable. 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
To prepare for HCPC physiotherapy registration, use timed reading and a full consultation recording alongside your case-note letter. In the conversation, explore a patient’s fear of movement and negotiate a functional goal rather than reciting exercises. The letter should tell the receiving clinician which limitation remains and what review you need. A four-B profile gives the listed 1400 total, but a component-floor comparison alone is incomplete. Calculate the actual total and confirm any multi-sitting plan with HCPC before booking.
| 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 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 UK?
UK HCPC: physiotherapists need a total OET score of 1400, with no component below 300, using the profession-specific test at an official centre.
Can physiotherapists 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 physiotherapists in UK?
Certificate no more than two years old when HCPC receives the application.
Other destinations for physiotherapists: 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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