Test Overview

OET is an international English language test that assesses the language communication skills of healthcare professionals who seek to register and practise in an English-speaking environment.

Who Recognises OET

OET is trusted by regulators, hospitals & universities in the UK, the US, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Dubai and Singapore as proof of ability to communicate effectively.

Assessment Structure

OET covers all four language skills with an emphasis on communication in a healthcare environment.

Listening

approx. 45 minutes

Same content for all healthcare professions.

Follow and understand a range of health-related spoken materials such as patient consultations and lectures.

Reading

60 minutes

Same content for all healthcare professions.

Read and understand different types of text on health-related subjects

Writing

45 minutes

Specific to profession, 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

Specific to profession, based on typical workplace situations.

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.

Why choose OET?

Do you need to take an English test to work or study in healthcare in the UK, the US,  Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Ukraine, Dubai, Singapore or Namibia?

Then OET is the test for you!

By taking OET you will prove you have the right level of English plus you’ll be learning the kind of language you will need every day at work.

And, that’s not all – healthcare professionals choose OET because:

• OET uses real healthcare scenarios so you’ll feel more confident on test day.

• OET is widely recognised as proof of English proficiency for registration, study and work in the healthcare sector, as well as for visas in some countries.

• OET helps you develop language skills for success in your career – see stories about people like you.

• It’s easy to prepare for the test using the OET Preparation Portal – check it out now

Test types

OET is available in three test types to give you choice, convenience and confidence.