OET Exam Pattern and Format: Complete Breakdown
Updated on 02 April, 2025
Mrinal Mandal
Study Abroad Expert
)The OET (Occupational English Test) evaluates how well healthcare professionals can communicate in English. It tests listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills, and each section of the exam has a specific structure and time limit.
Unlike general English proficiency exams, OET focuses on healthcare-specific scenarios, ensuring that candidates can effectively communicate with patients, colleagues, and medical staff.
This guide provides a detailed, section-wise breakdown of the OET exam format, covering its structure, duration, question types, test modes, and assessment criteria.
Whether you're a first-time test-taker or looking to improve your score, understanding the OET pattern will help you prepare strategically.
Table of Contents
OET Exam Pattern Overview
The Occupational English Test (OET) is structured into four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, each assessing a candidate’s ability to comprehend and communicate medical information effectively.
Key Features of the OET Exam Pattern:
- Test Sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking
- Total Duration: Approximately 3 hours
- Test Mode: Paper-based and Computer-based
- Scoring Scale: A (highest) to E (lowest)
- Test Frequency: Multiple times a year across 60+ countries
- Healthcare Professions Covered: Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Radiography, Veterinary Science, and more
Each section of the OET is carefully structured to mimic real-life medical communication, ensuring that candidates can apply their English skills in clinical scenarios.
For a detailed overview of age criteria, qualifications, and country-specific requirements, refer to our guide on OET Exam Eligibility: Age, Qualifications & Country Requirements 2024.
OET Exam Format: Section-Wise Breakdown
The OET exam format is uniform across all healthcare professions, but the Writing and Speaking sections are profession-specific. Below is a detailed breakdown of each section, including time allocation, question types, and tips for effective preparation.
OET Listening Section
The Listening section tests a candidate’s ability to understand and extract relevant information from spoken medical dialogues, presentations, and discussions.
Key Details of OET Listening:
- Total Duration: ~40 minutes
- Number of Questions: 42
- Audio Sources: Doctor-patient consultations, healthcare discussions, medical lectures
OET Listening Format:
| Part | Description | Question Types |
| Part A – Consultation Extracts | Two recordings of patient-doctor conversations | Note completion (fill in missing details) |
| Part B – Workplace Extracts | Six short recordings from medical settings (team briefings, hospital policies, staff discussions) | Multiple-choice questions |
| Part C – Presentation Extracts | Two long recordings (medical lectures, interviews, discussions) | Multiple-choice questions |
Tips for OET Listening Success:
✔ Practice listening to various English accents (British, Australian, American)
✔ Focus on medical keywords and context clues
✔ Improve note-taking skills to capture key details
Also check out: Tips For OET Preparation for 2024.
OET Reading Section
The Reading section evaluates how well candidates comprehend and analyze healthcare-related texts, such as medical research, hospital guidelines, and patient case notes.
Key Details of OET Reading:
- Total Duration: 60 minutes
- Number of Questions: 42
- Reading Sources: Medical reports, case studies, research papers, hospital policies
OET Reading Format:
| Part | Description | Question Types |
| Part A – Expedited Reading Task | Four short medical texts with missing information | Matching, sentence completion |
| Part B – Workplace Texts | Six short texts (guidelines, policies, manuals) | Multiple-choice questions |
| Part C – Long Healthcare Texts | Two complex medical articles | Multiple-choice questions |
Tips for OET Reading Success:
✔ Practice skimming and scanning techniques for quick information retrieval
✔ Familiarize yourself with common medical terminologies
✔ Focus on understanding the main idea, tone, and context
OET Writing Section
The Writing section tests a candidate’s ability to compose a structured healthcare-related letter, such as a referral, discharge, transfer, or advisory letter.
Key Details of OET Writing:
- Total Duration: 45 minutes
- Task: Write a formal letter using provided case notes
- Assessment Criteria: Purpose clarity, content accuracy, coherence, conciseness, grammar
OET Writing Format:
| Task Type | Purpose | Example |
| Referral Letter | Referring a patient to a specialist | Referring a patient to a cardiologist for further evaluation |
| Discharge Letter | Summarizing a patient’s hospital stay and next steps | Informing a general practitioner about a patient’s post-surgery recovery plan |
| Advisory Letter | Providing medical recommendations | Advising a caregiver on medication administration |
Tips for OET Writing Success:
✔ Follow a clear letter structure: Introduction, main content, conclusion
✔ Extract key details from case notes and use concise medical language
✔ Maintain a professional and empathetic tone
OET Speaking Section
The Speaking section assesses a candidate’s ability to engage in realistic healthcare conversations through role-playing.
Key Details of OET Speaking:
- Total Duration: ~20 minutes
- Format: Two role-plays with an examiner acting as a patient or caregiver
- Assessment Criteria: Fluency, clarity, professionalism, empathy
OET Speaking Format:
| Stage | Description |
| Introduction | General discussion with the examiner |
| Role-Play 1 | Medical scenario (e.g., explaining diagnosis, providing reassurance) |
| Role-Play 2 | Healthcare interaction (e.g., discussing treatment, answering patient concerns) |
Tips for OET Speaking Success:
✔ Use active listening and respond appropriately to patient concerns
✔ Practice explaining medical conditions and treatments in simple terms
✔ Maintain a calm, reassuring, and professional tone
OET Test Mode: Paper-Based vs Computer-Based
The Occupational English Test (OET) is available in two formats: Paper-Based and Computer-Based, allowing candidates to choose their preferred test mode.
While the exam structure, content, and difficulty level remain the same, each mode has unique features, benefits, and limitations.
Key Differences Between Paper-Based and Computer-Based OET:
| Feature | Paper-Based OET | Computer-Based OET |
| Listening & Reading | Same format as Computer-Based | Same format as Paper-Based |
| Writing Section | Handwritten response | Typed response |
| Speaking Section | Face-to-face with an examiner | Conducted via Zoom video call |
| Test Centers | Available in most countries | Limited availability in some regions |
| Result Processing Time | ~15 business days | ~10 business days (faster) |
| Availability | Held on fixed dates | More frequent test dates available |
| Ideal for Candidates Who | Prefer handwriting & physical test-taking | Are comfortable with digital typing & video calls |
Advantages & Disadvantages of Each OET Test Mode
Understanding the pros and cons of both test modes can help candidates make an informed choice.
📌 Advantages of Paper-Based OET:
✔ Suitable for those comfortable with handwriting – especially in the Writing section.
✔ Face-to-face interaction in the Speaking test helps candidates build rapport with the examiner.
✔ More widely available worldwide, making it accessible for most test-takers.
❌ Disadvantages of Paper-Based OET:
✘ Slower result processing (~15 business days).
✘ Handwriting legibility matters, especially in the Writing test.
✘ Limited test dates compared to the Computer-Based version.
📌 Advantages of Computer-Based OET:
✔ Faster result processing (~10 business days).
✔ Typing in the Writing test eliminates handwriting concerns.
✔ More test dates available, offering greater flexibility.
❌ Disadvantages of Computer-Based OET:
✘ Speaking test is conducted via Zoom, which some candidates may find less engaging.
✘ Requires good typing speed to complete the Writing section within the time limit.
✘ Availability is limited in certain locations.
Which OET Test Mode Should You Choose?
Your choice of Paper-Based vs Computer-Based OET depends on your comfort level with technology, writing style, and preference for test interaction.
- Choose Paper-Based OET if:
✅ You prefer handwriting over typing in the Writing section.
✅ You are more comfortable with face-to-face interactions for the Speaking test.
✅ You have limited access to computer-based test centers in your location. - Choose Computer-Based OET if:
✅ You type faster and more accurately than you write by hand.
✅ You need faster results for applications or job placements.
✅ You are comfortable speaking via Zoom for the Speaking test.
To explore the full list of OET-accepting countries along with their required scores and grades, check out our guide on OET Acceptable Countries in 2024: Know Required OET Scores & Grades.
Conclusion
The OET exam pattern is structured to test medical professionals' communication skills in English. Understanding the exam format, test modes, and assessment criteria is crucial for effective preparation.
By familiarizing yourself with the OET pattern, you can build confidence, improve efficiency, and achieve a higher score.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 4 components of OET?
The OET consists of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The Listening and Reading sections assess comprehension, while the Writing and Speaking sections evaluate communication skills in a healthcare context. Each section is tailored to reflect real-life medical scenarios for healthcare professionals.
What is the OET passing score?
OET uses a grading system from A to E, with Grade B (350–440) or higher generally considered a passing score for most healthcare regulatory bodies. However, the required score may vary depending on the country and profession. Always check specific requirements before applying.
Is OET easier than IELTS?
OET and IELTS have different focuses. OET is profession-specific, using healthcare-related scenarios, making it easier for medical professionals. IELTS is general or academic and requires broader English skills. If you're in healthcare, OET may feel more relevant and manageable than IELTS.
Is OET valid for 3 years?
OET scores are valid for two years for most healthcare regulatory bodies. However, some organizations or countries may extend validity to three years based on their requirements. Always check with the specific licensing authority where you plan to use your OET results.
Can I retake OET Reading only?
Yes, OET offers a modular retake option, allowing candidates to retake only the sections they didn’t pass instead of the entire exam. However, this depends on the regulatory body's acceptance. It’s best to confirm with the organization requiring your OET results.
Which part of OET is the most difficult?
The Writing and Listening sections are often considered the hardest. Writing requires structured, professional communication under time pressure, while Listening includes complex medical dialogues that demand strong comprehension skills. Difficulty varies per candidate based on strengths and preparation level.
How many days will it take to get OET results?
OET results are typically released within 10–15 business days after the test. Computer-based OET results are processed faster (around 10 days), while paper-based OET takes about 15 business days. Candidates can check their scores via the official OET portal.
How many attempts for OET?
There is no limit on how many times you can attempt the OET. You can retake the full test or specific sections if you don’t achieve the required scores. However, frequent retakes can be costly, so thorough preparation is recommended before reattempting.
Is OET accepted in the USA?
Yes, OET is accepted in the USA by various healthcare organizations, including the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) and the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). It is used for licensure purposes for international medical professionals.
Can I use OET for UK visa applications?
Yes, OET is recognized by the UK Home Office as proof of English proficiency for Tier 2 (Health and Care) visas. Healthcare professionals, including nurses and doctors, can use OET scores to meet visa requirements when applying for jobs in the UK’s healthcare sector.
What is the fee for OET?
The OET exam fee varies by country but typically costs around USD 587 (INR ~31,000) for the full test. If retaking specific modules, the fee per section is lower. Candidates should check the official OET website for the most updated fee structure.
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