If you’re a dedicated doctor who wants to work in English-speaking countries such as the UK, Australia, or New Zealand, you’ve likely heard of the Occupational English Test (OET). This specialised exam is designed to assess whether healthcare professionals can communicate effectively in clinical settings.

The OET includes Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing, but many doctors find the Writing sub-test the most challenging.

Writing well for medical purposes requires strong grammar, clarity, and the ability to summarise clinical information accurately. With the right preparation, this challenging sub-test can become your strongest area.

This guide will walk you through free OET writing practice for doctors, complete with strategies, tips, and insights to sharpen your skills.

What Is the OET?

The Occupational English Test is a globally recognised exam created specifically for healthcare professionals. It measures your English communication skills in real clinical scenarios.

Doctors who wish to register in the UK, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, and even some parts of the US and Canada, must achieve a good OET score.

Bodies such as the GMC (UK) and AHPRA (Australia) accept OET results as proof of English proficiency.

The test simulates real healthcare communication. From January 29, 2025, the OET will also introduce an overall score, in addition to sub-test grades, making evaluation simpler for employers and regulators.

Results are now released faster too  usually within 10 business days.

Why OET Writing Matters So Much for Doctors

Communication is at the core of medical practice. For internationally trained doctors, precise English writing is essential for:

• Patient safety

• Accurate documentation

• Efficient interdisciplinary communication

• Professional credibility

A poorly written referral or discharge letter could lead to misdiagnosis or treatment delays. Strong writing skills help reduce errors, improve collaboration, and elevate patient outcomes.

As healthcare moves increasingly toward digital communication and telemedicine, clear written English is now more crucial than ever.

Passing OET Writing boosts not only your test score but also your day-to-day medical performance abroad.

Understanding the OET Writing Sub-test

The Writing test lasts 45 minutes and requires doctors to write a letter based on clinical case notes. This could be a:

• Referral letter

• Discharge letter

• Transfer letter

• Follow-up letter

You will be assessed on:

• Purpose

• Content

• Conciseness

• Genre & style

• Grammar & cohesion

• Spelling & punctuation

The format remains the same in 2025, but the new scoring system will make evaluation clearer and more detailed.

How to Start Free OET Writing Practice

You can begin OET writing practice for free using resources such as:

• Official OET sample case notes

• Free tasks on OET-specific sites, including OETPro

• Online forums and peer groups

• YouTube tutorials

Download free case notes, write letters, and compare your structure and content to high-scoring samples. Consistent practice will help you improve quickly.

How to Write an Excellent OET Letter

A strong OET Writing response requires:

1. Careful Reading of Case Notes

Spend the first 5–7 minutes identifying:

• Patient demographics

• Medical history

• Current problem

• Investigation results

• Management plan

Highlight only the information needed for the recipient.

2. A Clear Plan

Plan the structure before writing:

• Purpose

• Relevant medical history

• Current situation

• Requests / recommendations

Keep it between 180–220 words.

3. Precise Writing

Use formal, clinical language.
Avoid opinions.
Ensure each paragraph has a clear purpose.

4. Careful Revision

Use the last 2–3 minutes to check:

• Spelling of medical terms

• Grammar and punctuation

• Task relevance

A small mistake can reduce your score  proofreading matters.

Key Elements of Strong OET Writing

Focus on these essential components:

Language Proficiency

Use accurate medical vocabulary (e.g., “tachycardia,” “prognosis”).

Task Fulfillment

Include all relevant case-note information.

Clarity and Conciseness

Avoid unnecessary details and repetition.

Professional Tone

Maintain a respectful, formal style appropriate for medical correspondence.

Sample Answers: The Roadmap to High Scores

High-scoring sample letters show you how to:

• Paraphrase case notes

• Organise information logically

• Maintain a professional tone

For example:

“I am referring Mrs. Jane Doe, a 52-year-old teacher, who presents with polyuria and fatigue.”

Such samples act as models for structure, accuracy, and clarity.

Self-Evaluation and Feedback

Evaluate your letters using the official criteria. You can also seek feedback from:

• OET teachers

• Mentors

• Online study groups

• Websites like OETPro that offer personalised evaluation

Feedback helps you identify weaknesses quickly.

Making OET Writing Practice Engaging

Practice doesn’t have to feel dull. You can:

• Role-play doctor-patient scenarios

• Use timers for real-exam simulation

• Practice diverse case types

• Track improvement sessions

• Reward yourself for progress

This keeps you motivated and consistent.

Consistency: The Secret to Success

Aim to write one letter every day or 3–4 letters weekly.
Track your mistakes.
Review previous attempts.
Set monthly goals.

Completing 20–30 letters before the exam significantly boosts confidence and performance.

Common Challenges Doctors Face — and How to Overcome Them

1. Time Management

Practice timed tasks regularly.

2. Limited Medical Vocabulary

Use flashcards or read medical articles to expand terminology.

3. Grammar Issues

Review common errors like tense consistency and comma usage.

4. Legible Writing or Typing Speed

Practice handwriting or typing depending on your exam format.

5. Test Anxiety

Use relaxation techniques and consistent practice to build confidence.

Final Thoughts

Passing the OET Writing sub-test is essential for doctors dreaming of an international medical career. With free practice, strategic preparation, and consistent effort, you can master this section.

The 2025 OET updates make the test more transparent and efficient making NOW the perfect time to start preparing.

Stay committed, keep practicing, and believe in your ability to succeed.
Your OET success is the first step toward a fulfilling medical career abroad.