Exam pattern

The OET exam has 4 sub-tests: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The total test duration is around 3 hours. Listening and Reading are common for all 12 healthcare professions. Writing and Speaking are profession-specific.

• Listening: 50 minutes. Common for all professions. Score range is 0-500 (Grade A-E). Tests healthcare consultations, monologues, and lectures.
• Reading: 60 minutes. Common for all professions. Score range is 0-500 (Grade A-E). Tests healthcare texts, articles, and guidelines.
• Writing: 45 minutes. Profession-specific. Score range is 0-500 (Grade A-E). You write 1 letter (referral, discharge, or transfer) based on case notes.
• Speaking: 20 minutes. Profession-specific. Score range is 0-500 (Grade A-E). You do 2 role-plays as a healthcare professional with a patient.

There is no negative marking in the OET. Always attempt every question, even if you have to guess. There is no penalty for a wrong answer.

OET does not give an overall score. Each sub-test is scored and reported separately.