OET stands for Occupational English Test, an international English language test for healthcare professionals. Language and communication skills are assessed to determine whether healthcare professionals are capable of registering and practicing in an English-speaking environment.
12 professions are eligible for the OET, including dentistry, dietetics, medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, optometry, pharmacy, physiotherapy, podiatry, radiography, speech pathology, and veterinary science.
In Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore, OET is recognized by regulatory healthcare bodies. A candidate’s ability to communicate effectively in a demanding healthcare environment is often assessed through OET by many organizations, including hospitals, universities, and colleges.
This exam covers all four language skills—listening, reading, writing, and speaking—with emphasis on medical and health professional communication.
OET consists of four sub-tests:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking