The rule for podiatrists in UK
HCPC lists a profession-specific OET route for chiropodists and podiatrists: a total of 1400, with every component at least 300. A podiatry applicant with 350 in three skills and 300 in one has a total of 1350, so meeting the component floor alone does not satisfy the 1400 requirement. 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
A UK podiatry applicant should first total the four results, then check the lowest component. For example, extra Reading marks can help the total but cannot rescue Listening below 300. In a foot-care role-play, ask what stops the patient following the plan before offering solutions. In Writing, connect the relevant clinical risk to the action requested of the recipient. Use a full practice profile to check both conditions and ask HCPC directly before depending on results from different dates.
| 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 Podiatry practice
Podiatry guide and sample tasks · Podiatrists role-play cards · Sample letter task
Speaking cards
- Plantar ulcer – reluctance to wear an offloading boot Podiatry clinic (community high-risk foot service)
- Ingrown toenail – partial nail avulsion for a teenager Podiatry clinic
- Aged care resident – overgrown nails and heel redness Aged care facility
Writing case notes
- Rheumatoid forefoot – continuity of care after relocation referral letter
- Falls-risk foot assessment – older woman update letter
- Aged care resident – suspected peripheral arterial disease update letter
Free full Listening test · Free Reading Part A · Practice plans and prices
Questions candidates ask
What OET score do podiatrists need in UK?
UK HCPC: podiatrists need a total OET score of 1400, with no component below 300, using the profession-specific test at an official centre.
Can podiatrists 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 podiatrists in UK?
Certificate no more than two years old when HCPC receives the application.
Other destinations for podiatrists: 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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