As healthcare evolves in 2025, physiotherapists aiming for jobs abroad must demonstrate strong English communication skills. This ensures smooth interaction with patients and colleagues in different clinical settings.

The Occupational English Test (OET) remains one of the most important exams for physiotherapists because it specifically evaluates language skills needed in real physiotherapy practice. Whether you want to register with regulatory bodies in English-speaking countries or grow your international career, understanding OET is essential.

This complete guide explains everything physiotherapists need to know about OET in 2025, including recent updates such as digital testing options, improved scoring clarity, and new practice resources.

We’ll break down the test format, explain what’s unique for physiotherapists, share preparation tips, and guide you to a free practice test. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to prepare and succeed.

The Basics of OET: A Customised Test for Healthcare Workers

The Occupational English Test (OET) is a globally recognised English exam created specifically for healthcare professionals. Unlike general English tests, OET focuses on real medical and therapeutic scenarios that physiotherapists deal with every day.

OET is conducted by Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment and evaluates your ability to communicate safely and professionally in English. This includes patient communication, documentation, and interprofessional collaboration.

In 2025, OET became even more flexible. You can now take the test:

• On paper at a test centre

• On a computer at a venue

• Through OET@Home using remote proctoring

This is especially helpful for busy physiotherapists.

Official preparation materials now include advanced AI-assisted feedback, giving candidates clearer insights into their weaknesses.

OET scores remain valid for two years in most countries. Some regulators, such as AHPRA (Australia), may ask candidates to retake the test if registration is delayed.

The updated scoring system still uses letter grades (A–E) and numerical bands (0–500). In 2025, descriptors were refined to match physiotherapy expectations. For example, a B grade now clearly states: “can manage complex patient interactions with minimal support.”

Physiotherapists need OET for registration in countries such as the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland. Most regulatory bodies require a minimum of B in all sub-tests.

OET’s profession-specific content makes the exam highly relevant, as scenarios are centred around rehabilitation, exercise prescription, mobility issues, and patient education.

A Breakdown of OET Parts for Physiotherapists

OET has four modules: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. While Listening and Reading are the same for all healthcare professions, Writing and Speaking are customised for physiotherapy.

1. OET Listening

The Listening test lasts 40 minutes and includes 42 questions divided into three parts.

• Part A: Patient consultations (e.g., physio discussing recovery after surgery)

• Part B: Short workplace extracts (e.g., team discussions on ergonomic risks)

• Part C: Long presentations (e.g., lectures on neuromuscular disorders)

In 2025, audio quality improved significantly, with more realistic clinical background sounds to simulate actual practice.

A score of 350–450 (Grade B) shows you can correctly interpret patient histories, instructions, and medical discussions.

Preparation Tip:
Practice understanding different accents British, Australian, and American and review physiotherapy-related vocabulary.

2. OET Reading

This 60-minute section has three parts and 42 questions.

• Part A: Quick information search in four short healthcare texts

• Part B: Six short workplace texts focusing on main ideas

• Part C: Two long research articles (often related to physiotherapy topics)

In 2025, texts became more screen-friendly with a new focus on evaluating evidence-based clinical information.

A B grade (350–450) is commonly required.

Preparation Tip:
Read physiotherapy journals regularly to improve speed and comprehension.

3. OET Writing

The Writing sub-test lasts 45 minutes and requires writing a formal letter based on case notes.

For physiotherapists, the task may include:

• Referring a patient to an orthopaedic surgeon

• Writing a discharge summary

• Updating a GP on a patient’s rehabilitation progress

In 2025, telehealth-based scenarios were added to reflect modern healthcare trends.

Evaluation Criteria:
Purpose, content, conciseness, style, grammar, and spelling.

Most regulators accept C+ (300–340) or higher for Writing.

4. OET Speaking

This 20-minute sub-test includes two role-plays where you act as a physiotherapist, and the examiner acts as a patient or colleague.

Scenarios may include:

• Explaining exercise plans

• Giving advice for back pain

• Discussing rehabilitation goals

• Motivating a patient with low compliance

Updates for 2025 include virtual consultation scenarios and culturally sensitive interactions.

A B grade (350–450) shows strong communication skills suitable for clinical practice.

How OET for Physiotherapists Is Different

While Listening and Reading are common for all healthcare jobs, Writing and Speaking are tailored to each profession.

A physiotherapist’s tasks involve:

• Mobility assessments

• Rehabilitation plans

• Exercise prescription

• Functional analysis

This makes the exam more relevant and easier to relate to than general English tests.

Unlike IELTS or TOEFL, OET focuses only on healthcare language, saving time and making preparation more efficient.

Proven Ways to Prepare for OET Success in 2025

To perform well, create a structured study plan. Begin with a diagnostic mock test to identify weak areas.

Use 2025’s digital tools:

• Vocabulary apps

• AI-based practice platforms

• Online speaking role-play groups

Practice daily:

• Listen to physiotherapy podcasts

• Read rehabilitation articles

• Write sample letters weekly

• Record yourself speaking

Avoid common mistakes such as over-complicating writing or pausing frequently during speaking.

Set achievable goals and track your progress.

Start with Free OET Practice Tests

Free mock tests are the best way to understand OET’s structure.

At oetpro.com, physiotherapists get:

• Free full mock tests

• Instant scoring

• Performance analysis

• Detailed answer explanations

Creating a free account gives you access to physiotherapy-specific practice materials that match 2025 exam updates.

The Bigger Picture: How OET Boosts Your Career

OET certification does more than prove your English skills. It opens doors to global opportunities.

Benefits include:

• Higher salary abroad (often 20% more in the UK)

• Faster job offers

• International mobility

• Eligibility for specialisations

• Opportunities for global conferences and workshops

OET helps physiotherapists provide safer and more effective patient care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. What minimum OET scores do physiotherapists need?
Most regulators require B in all sub-tests and C+ in Writing, but requirements vary.

Q2. How long does OET preparation take?
Usually 2–3 months of regular practice.

Q3. Can you retake individual sub-tests?
Yes, and some regulators allow score combination within six months.

Q4. Is OET harder for physiotherapists?
No. The content is profession-specific, making it easier to relate to.

Q5. What if English is not my first language?
OET’s contextual approach makes learning medical English easier.

Q6. Are there updates in OET 2025?
Yes, including digital testing and updated scenarios.

Q7. How does OET help with jobs abroad?
It is required for registration and improves employability.

Q8. Can I practice OET for free?
Yes, platforms like oetpro.com offer free mock tests.

Q9. What topics appear in physiotherapy OET?
Rehabilitation, mobility assessment, chronic pain, patient education, teamwork, and exercise planning.

Q10. Can I use OET for academic admission?
Yes, many universities accept OET for physiotherapy programmes.