Related: OET Veterinary Science · OET Podiatry.
The four sub-tests
| Sub-test | Time | What you do | Same for all professions? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listening | about 40 min | 42 questions in Parts A, B and C; each recording plays once | Yes |
| Reading | 60 min | 42 questions; Part A strictly 15 minutes | Yes |
| Writing | 45 min | One letter from case notes, about 180–200 words | No: your profession |
| Speaking | about 20 min | Two 5-minute role-plays, 3 minutes to prepare each | No: your profession |
You can try each one free: Listening Part A, Reading Part A, Writing samples and Speaking role-play cards.
Who takes OET?
OET has a version for each of 12 professions. Listening and Reading are shared, while Writing and Speaking use scenarios from your own profession.
Nursing · Medicine · Dentistry · Pharmacy · Physiotherapy · Occupational Therapy · Dietetics · Optometry · Podiatry · Radiography · Speech Pathology · Veterinary Science
How is OET scored?
Each sub-test has its own score from 0 to 500, with its own grade, and there is no overall OET result. Grade B starts at 350, which many organisations ask for, but the line depends on who receives your result. Some treat Writing differently. See accepted countries and score lines, the score calculator and how results work.
What to do next
- Check that your regulator or employer accepts OET and note the score it needs.
- Take a free test to see your starting point.
- Follow a plan for preparing for OET.
- Check fees and test dates before you book.
Prefer another language?
Read about OET in Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, Arabic, Spanish or Filipino.
Questions candidates ask
What is the full form of OET?
OET stands for Occupational English Test.
Who should take OET?
OET is for people in the 12 healthcare professions it covers, usually when a regulator, employer or visa pathway accepts it. Check that the organisation receiving your result accepts OET before you book.
Is OET harder than IELTS?
It depends on the person. OET uses healthcare tasks, which many clinicians find more familiar, but the score each body requires can differ. Compare the tasks and your required score rather than relying on a general answer.
Is OET a computer or paper test?
OET is offered on paper, on computer at a venue, and at home with remote proctoring. Availability depends on your profession and location.
Sources
Last checked . 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.