The Occupational English Test (OET) is essential for healthcare workers who want to work or study in English-speaking countries such as Australia, the UK, New Zealand, Canada, and the US. It evaluates communication skills in real medical situations for 12 healthcare professions, including nursing, medicine, pharmacy, and physiotherapy.

The test is conducted by the Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment Trust (CBLA), which ensures that candidates meet the language standards required for safe and effective patient care. However, unexpected situations like medical emergencies or scheduling issues may force candidates to cancel their OET exam.

As of September 2025, OET has introduced updates such as additional mid-week test dates and a new overall scoring system starting January 29, 2025. With these changes, understanding the cancellation process is more important than ever.

This article provides a complete guide to cancelling your OET exam. It explains the latest procedures, financial implications, acceptable reasons, and practical steps for a smooth experience. It also highlights preparation support available through platforms like oetpro.com.

Getting to Know the OET Test

OET is different from other language tests because it is specifically designed for healthcare settings. It includes Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking sub-tests that reflect real clinical communication, such as patient consultations or writing referral letters.

OET is widely recognised for registration by authorities like Australia’s AHPRA and the UK’s NMC. From 2025, the introduction of an overall score—an average of the four sub-tests—offers more flexibility for candidates.

Updated NMC rules now allow clubbing of scores within a 12-month period, and Australia’s new visa exemptions from August 7, 2025, will also affect minimum score thresholds.

Profession-specific tasks increase the usefulness of OET. For example, nurses may write discharge summaries, while pharmacists may provide medication counselling. Results for computer-based formats are typically released within 10–12 business days, supporting faster career progression.

Key Elements of the OET

Purpose: To ensure healthcare professionals can communicate clearly in English for licensure, visa applications, and clinical practice.

Target Audience: 12 healthcare professions including dentistry, optometry, and physiotherapy.

Authority: Managed by CBLA, a collaboration between Cambridge Assessment English and Box Hill Institute.

Scoring System: Each sub-test is graded from A (450–500) to E, with most regulators requiring a minimum of B or 350+, especially under the 2025 scoring format.

Structure of the OET Exam

1. Listening (45–50 minutes)

It includes three parts—consultation extracts, workplace audio clips, and long healthcare talks. This section assesses your ability to understand spoken English across various accents and clinical scenarios.

2. Reading (60 minutes)

Three parts test your scanning, skimming, and detailed comprehension skills using healthcare-specific texts such as protocols, charts, and medical articles.

3. Writing (45 minutes)

Candidates write a profession-specific letter (referral, transfer, or discharge) based on case notes. The task focuses on clarity, relevance, and professional tone.

4. Speaking (20 minutes)

Two role-plays simulate interactions with patients or colleagues. This section assesses fluency, communication style, and clinical empathy.

By 2025, more computer-based and at-home options and digital features like automatic word counting will make the test even more accessible.

How to Book the OET Exam

Booking the test is straightforward but requires attention to detail:

First, create a MyOET profile with your personal details and a valid ID. Ensure all information matches your identification documents.

Next, choose the test format OET on Paper requires booking at least 24 days before the exam, whereas OET on Computer or OET@Home can be booked up to 7 days before.

Select your preferred date and test centre. With increased mid-week test dates in 2025, candidates have more flexibility.

Complete the booking through your MyOET account by selecting the test type, profession, venue, and payment method. The standard fee is AUD 587 (USD 455 or approx. INR 31,576 as of September 2025).

After payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all test details.

How to Cancel the OET Exam

To cancel your exam, start by checking the cancellation deadlines. Paper-based tests generally allow cancellations up to one week before, while computer-based tests allow cancelling until two days before.

Log in to your MyOET account, go to “My Tests,” and select "Withdraw" or "Cancel.” For medical or complex cases, you may need to email OET Support.

Upload required documentation such as medical certificates, and wait for a confirmation email with refund details. Refunds usually take 7–10 business days.

Acting early increases the chances of recovering part of your fee.

Financial Implications of Cancelling

Cancellation fees were revised in 2025:

Before booking deadline: AUD 120 + AUD 7 fee
After deadline but before final cancellation window: AUD 200 + AUD 7
Within one week (paper) or two days (computer): No refund

Refund policies include:

• More than 60 days before: Full refund minus fees

• 14–60 days before: Partial refund (50–70%)

• Less than 14 days: No refund unless OET cancels the test centre

Refunds are issued to the original payment method. If the card is expired, you must provide updated details.

Acceptable Reasons for Cancelling the OET

Medical Emergencies

Serious illness, accidents, or hospitalisation qualify. Valid medical documents are required.

Family Emergencies

Hospitalisation or loss of a close family member may be accepted with supporting documents.

Work Commitments

Shift changes, medical duty calls, or emergencies at work may justify cancellation when proven with employer letters.

Travel Issues

Visa delays, travel restrictions, or weather problems may be accepted if supported by proof.

Personal Circumstances

Relocation, relationship difficulties, or unforeseen challenges may be considered in certain cases.

Visa or Immigration Issues

Updated Australian visa rules for 2025 make early checking important.

Test Centre Problems

If the venue cancels or technical issues arise, OET offers free deferrals.

Helpful Tips for a Smooth Cancellation

Cancel early to minimise losses.
Review policies carefully through your MyOET account.
Maintain copies of all emails and proof documents.
Consider rescheduling—deferral fees may be cheaper than cancelling and rebooking.
Use preparation resources like oetpro.com to avoid cancellations due to lack of readiness.

Cancelling your OET exam is sometimes unavoidable, but understanding the 2025 guidelines helps you avoid unnecessary financial loss. With timely action, clear communication, and proper documentation, candidates can navigate the cancellation process smoothly. By planning ahead and using trusted preparation platforms, you can stay on track with your healthcare career goals while adapting to unexpected challenges.