What is the OET Test
The Occupational English Test (OET) is designed to meet the specific English language needs of students going into the medical and healthcare sectors where English is used as a language of communication. All four language skills are assessed, with Writing and Speaking tests available in 12 different areas of healthcare. All candidates sit the same Reading and Listening tests.
What does the OET test include?
There are 4 components in the OET test. A standard Reading and Listening component and a profession specific Speaking and Writing component.
OET Test-Reading and Listening components
The questions and the content for the reading and Listening test are the same for all healthcare professions.
Reading
60 minutes
You will be asked to read and understand different types of text on health-related subjects.
Listening
approx. 45 minutes
You will be asked to follow and understand a range of health-related spoken materials such as patient consultations and lectures.
OET Test-Writing and Speaking components
The questions and content for the Writing and Speaking test are specific to profession. For example, different speaking and writing tests for nurses, doctors, dentist and so on…
Writing
45 minutes
The questions are based on typical workplace situations.
The task is to write a letter, usually a referral letter. Sometimes, especially for some professions, a different type of letter is required: e.g. a letter of transfer or discharge, or a letter to advise or inform a patient, carer, or group.
Speaking
approx. 20 minutes
In a private room you will take part in two role-plays. You take your professional role (as a healthcare professional) while the interlocutor plays a patient or client, or sometimes a relative or carer.
Test results and scores
You will receive a Statement of Results which shows your score for each of the four sub-tests, on a scale from 0 to 500. Each of the four sub-tests is assessed in a specific way. Most recognising boards and councils require a minimum result of 350 (equivalent to a minimum 7 on the IELTS)
Widely recognised
The OET is widely recognised by recruiters in many parts of the world including the UK, Australia, the USA, Spain, Ireland and more. The OET test can be taken in 46 countries across the world.
OET is accepted as proof of English proficiency for visas, study, registration and employment in healthcare.
Click here: to find where you can take the test in your home country.
Can I Use The OET Test To Apply For A UK Visa?
OET is accepted for all Tier 2 UKVI visas for doctors, nurses, midwives and dentists, including the new Health and Care Visa which sits within the Tier 2 (General).