How do I register for OET?

You must register for OET online via the OET website. You will find all the information you need on how to apply for OET, including guidelines for uploading photos, test costs and how to pay, at www.occupationalenglishtest.org 

Test Dates

Or view all dates online here.

Office Location

Massey University, Albany Campus

Building 111, Gate 4, Albany Highway

Albany, Auckland

Massey University, Wellington Campus

T37, Entrance A, Wallace Street

Mt, Cook, Wellington

Results

How is OET scored?

You will receive a separate grade for each sub-test ranging from A (highest) to E (lowest). There is no overall grade. The grades are printed on the Statement of Results.

You will find the description for each grade in the table below.

Study materials and assistance

Where can I find OET practice materials?

You can find a wide range or practice materials, including sample test questions on the OET website www.occupationalenglishtest.org/test-information/preparation-portal 

Frequently asked questions

What is OET?

OET is an international English language test that assesses the language and communication skills of healthcare professionals who seek to register and practice in an English-speaking environment. It provides a valid and reliable assessment of all four language skills - listening, reading, writing and speaking - with an emphasis on communication in medical and health professional settings.

Who owns OET?

The test is owned by Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment (CBLA), a joint venture between Cambridge English Language Assessment and Box Hill Institute.  

Cambridge English Language Assessment is the world's leading provider of language assessment for learners and teachers of English. Over 4 million people take Cambridge English exams each year in more than 130 countries.  Around the world over 13,500 organisations rely on its exams and qualifications as proof of their English-language ability. It is part of the world-renowned University of Cambridge.

Box Hill Institute, based in Melbourne, Australia, is a leading vocational and higher-education provider known for its collaborative and creative approach to education is Australia and overseas. The institute has a rich history, and over the years has been the recipient of many awards demonstrating recognition for its achievements.

What is the test content:?

OET is an in-depth and thorough assessment of all areas of language ability, and includes Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking sub-tests.  For more information about the test, please visit www.occupationalenglishtest.org

How is the Speaking test conducted?

The Speaking test consists of two simulated consultations in the form of face-to-face role-plays between a patient and a health practitioner. The candidate takes the role of the practitioner and the interviewer plays the patient or patient's relative/carer (or for veterinary science, the animal's owner/carer). 

Who recognises OET?

OET is recognised and trusted by many regulatory healthcare bodies and councils, hospitals, universities and colleges. The Australian Department of Immigration and Border Protection recognises OET for a number of skilled migration and student visas.  You can find a list of all the organisations that recognise here: https://www.occupationalenglishtest.org/test-information/who-recognises-oet/

What is the candidate fee for OET?

The worldwide candidate fee is AUD $580.00 (for all four sub-tests).

What is the need for OET?

There is increasing demand for English-speaking healthcare professionals in many countries and demand for profession-specific training and testing is increasing - from healthcare professionals, authorities, employers and educators.

Can I resit one module of the test?

Yes, in some circumstances it is possible for candidates to resit one module of the test instead of taking the whole test again.

Can I take OET if I'm not a Healthcare professional?

OET is designed to focus on the communication requirements of healthcare professionals in the workplace and to provide an assessment of language skills in that setting. If you are not a health professional aiming towards registration in an English-speaking context, OET may not be the most suitable test for you. We would recommend contacting the relevant regulatory board before booking a test.

Where is the OET testing centre located?

OET Auckland 

Massey University, Building 111

Gate 4, Hokowhitu Place

Albany, Auckland

0800 MASSEY (0800 627 739)

OET Wellington

Massey University, Wellington Campus

T37, Entrance A, Wallace Street

Mt, Cook, Wellington