OET Preparation

The Occupational English Test (also known as OET) is the English language test for healthcare professionals. It assesses the language communication skills of healthcare professionals who wish to register and practice in an English-speaking environment.

OET is available for the following 12 professions: dentistry, dietetics, medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, optometry, pharmacy, physiotherapy, podiatry, radiography, speech pathology, and veterinary science.

OET is recognized by regulatory healthcare boards and councils in Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, USA, Ireland, Dubai, Singapore, Namibia and Ukraine. Many organizations, including hospitals, universities and colleges, are using OET as proof of a candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a demanding healthcare environment. In addition, OET is recognized by the Australian Department of Home Affairs and Immigration New Zealand for all visa categories where an English test may be required.

Each recognizing organization determines which grade results mean that candidates meet the language competency standards to function in their profession. A full list of regulatory organizations that accept OET can be seen on the official website.

Test Format

OET provides a valid and reliable assessment of all four language skills – Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking – with an emphasis on communication in medical and health professional settings.

OET comprises four sub-tests:

• Listening (approximately 45 minutes)
• Reading (60 minutes)
• Writing (45 minutes)
• Speaking (approximately 20 minutes)

Scoring

For each of the four sub-tests that make up OET, candidates receive a numerical score from 0-500 in 10-point increments e.g. 350,360, 370. The numeric score is mapped to a separate letter grade, ranging from A (highest) to E (lowest). There is no overall grade for OET.