OET (Occupational English Test) is designed to meet the specific English language needs of the healthcare sector. It assesses the language proficiency of healthcare professionals who wish to practice in an English-speaking environment.
OET is accepted as proof of English proficiency in the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Dubai, Namibia, and Singapore for registration in 12 healthcare professions.
The test assesses all four language skills, using test materials that reflect typical communication scenarios from the healthcare industry.
The OET Listening sub-test consists of three parts, with a total of 42 questions. The topics are of generic healthcare interest and are accessible to candidates across all professions. The total length of the Listening audio is about 40 minutes, including recorded speech and pauses to allow you time to write your answers. You will hear each recording once and are expected to write your answers while listening.
The Speaking sub-test is delivered individually and takes around 20 minutes. This part of OET uses materials specifically designed for your profession. In each role-play, you take your professional role (for example, as a nurse or as a pharmacist) while the interlocutor plays a patient, a client, or a patient’s relative or carer.
The Reading sub-test consists of three parts and a total of 42 question items. All three parts take a total of 60 minutes to complete. The topics are of generic healthcare interest and are therefore accessible to candidates across all professions.
OET Writing tests the ability to produce a letter that is appropriate for the situation given the task. It is not necessary to repeat everything from the case notes or to give a chronological account. Be prepared to select and organize the information in a way that informs the reader appropriately and effectively.