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OET Speaking

As a language coach and OET examiner with over 15 years of experience, I have trained thousands of nurses, doctors, physiotherapists, and pharmacists. The Speaking Sub-test remains one of the most challenging parts of the OET because it tests both English communication and real-world clinical interaction skills.

This guide provides updated insights, real 2025 changes, sample role plays, and practical tips to help you score B or above.

Overview of the OET Speaking Sub-test

The Speaking test simulates real clinical conversations. It includes:

Structure

  • Total Duration: ~20 minutes

  • Two Role Plays

  • Preparation Time: 3 minutes per role play

  • Speaking Time: 5 minutes per role play

  • Interlocutor Role: Patient, carer, or colleague

  • Profession Specific: Nurses get nursing tasks; doctors get medical tasks, etc.

Focus Areas

The goal is effective, empathetic, and clear clinical communication, not memorized dialogue.

Assessment Criteria

OET examiners evaluate you in 9 categories, grouped into two domains:

1. Linguistic Criteria

  • Intelligibility (clear pronunciation)

  • Fluency (smooth speech)

  • Appropriateness of Language (correct tone and vocabulary)

  • Grammar & Cohesion (structure, connectors, accuracy)

2. Clinical Communication Criteria

  • Building Rapport

  • Understanding the Patient's Perspective

  • Providing Structure

  • Gathering Information

  • Giving Information

Latest OET Speaking Updates – 2025

Key Changes Effective 2025

Update Details
Overall OET Score Introduced From Jan 29, 2025, OET provides an overall score along with the traditional A–E grades.
OET Speaking Platform From July 31, 2025, Speaking tests are conducted through OET’s own platform (online).
Better Audio/Video Quality Ensures clearer interaction and consistent testing standards.
Updated English Requirements NMC now accepts combination scores (e.g., B in three sub-tests + C+ in writing).
ECFMG Requirements OET Medicine still accepted in 2025; deadlines unchanged.

What This Means for You

  • Prepare for online speaking (camera presence + clear audio).

  • Expect standardized assessment with better quality.

  • Practice tests from platforms like Oetpro now simulate this format effectively.

Essential Skills for Scoring B or Higher

? Communication Skills

  • Use empathetic tone

  • Show active listening

  • Demonstrate patient-centred care

  • Give structured explanations

  • Ask relevant questions

? Language Skills

  • Use simple, clear vocabulary

  • Avoid medical jargon unless explained

  • Maintain fluency (no long pauses)

  • Use connectors: Firstly, In addition, To clarify…

? Avoid These Common Mistakes

  • Talking too fast

  • Over-explaining medical details

  • Interrupting the patient

  • Ignoring concerns or emotions

  • Sounding robotic or memorized

2025 Realistic Role Play Examples (with Analysis)

Example 1: Nursing – Teenager With Body Image Issues

Setting: School Health Centre
Patient: 15-year-old girl
Tasks:

  • Provide emotional support

  • Explain healthy body image

  • Give advice on diet/exercise

  • Recommend resources

Key Skills Shown

  • Rapport-building

  • Empathy

  • Simplified explanations

  • Health education

Example 2: Doctor – Emergency Reaction to Wasp Sting

Setting: Emergency Room
Patient: Adult with severe sting reaction
Tasks:

  • Assess symptoms

  • Explain anaphylaxis risks

  • Demonstrate EpiPen use

  • Give prevention tips

Key Skills Shown

  • Clinical reassurance

  • Clear procedural explanation

  • Checking understanding

Example 3: Physiotherapist – Leg Fracture Recovery

Setting: Outpatient Clinic
Patient: Recovering from fracture
Tasks:

  • Review progress

  • Demonstrate exercises

  • Discuss pain management

  • Encourage adherence

Key Skills Shown

  • Instruction clarity

  • Motivation

  • Checking technique

Example 4: Pharmacist – Hypertension Non-Compliance

Setting: Community Pharmacy
Patient: Stopped taking BP medication
Tasks:

  • Identify reasons for non-compliance

  • Explain side effects

  • Advise timing adjustments

  • Recommend reminders

Key Skills Shown

  • Probing questions

  • Non-judgmental approach

  • Problem-solving

Example 5: Dentist – Nasal Scab After Sinus Procedure

Setting: Dental Clinic
Patient: Post-procedure irritation
Tasks:

  • Examine issue

  • Explain normal healing

  • Provide hygiene advice

  • Suggest follow-up timeframe

Key Skills Shown

  • Clear reassurance

  • Short, focused explanations

Preparation Tips for 2025

Daily Practice Habits

  • Practice role plays with partners

  • Record yourself for self-evaluation

  • Speak for 5 minutes daily on medical topics

  • Use mirror or camera practice for online testing

Use Phrases That Improve Scores

  • “I understand your concern.”

  • “Let’s go through this step-by-step.”

  • “Can you tell me more about that?”

  • “To clarify, what you’re saying is…”

Use Oetpro.com for Effective Training

  • 100+ role plays

  • Instant AI feedback

  • Timed speaking simulations

  • 2025-format role play cards

  • Accent and clarity analysis

Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenge Why It Happens Solution
Long pauses Nervousness Practice structured templates
Overuse of jargon Trying to sound professional Replace with simple terms
Low fluency Thinking too much Use fillers: “Let me think…”
Missing patient emotions Focusing only on tasks Respond with empathy first

Final Advice From an Expert Examiner

To score high in OET Speaking:

  • Treat the role play like a real consultation, not a performance.

  • Stay calm, empathetic, and structured.

  • Use simple English, not complicated medical terminology.

  • Practice using 2025 digital format simulations.

With consistent practice and the right strategies, you can confidently achieve a Grade B or higher.

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