OET (Occupational English Test) Practice Test

OET offers tailored tests for 12 professions: Dentistry, Dietetics, Medicine, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Optometry, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Radiography, Speech Pathology, and Veterinary Science. If your profession is not listed, you typically take the test for Medicine.

OET uses a grading scale from A (highest) to E (lowest) for each sub-test. Most regulatory bodies require a minimum score of Grade B (approximately a CEFR level of B2+/C1) in all four skills (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking). Some organizations may accept a Grade B in three sub-tests and a Grade C+ in one. You must check the specific requirements of the board you are applying to.

The Speaking sub-test is a one-on-one, role-play conversation lasting about 20 minutes. You will assume your professional role (e.g., a nurse, doctor) while a trained interlocutor plays a patient, client, or sometimes a patient's relative. You receive role-play cards outlining the scenario and your tasks. The test assesses your effectiveness in gathering and providing information, building rapport, and using appropriate language in a healthcare context.

OET results are valid for two years from the test date. This validity period aligns with the requirements of most healthcare regulatory bodies, who require evidence of recent English language proficiency for registration and visa purposes.

No, OET does not permit the combination of scores from different test sittings (often called 'score banking'). You must achieve the required grades (e.g., B in each sub-test) in a single test administration to meet the requirements of most recognizing organizations.