The OET Exam has become the number one language test used by healthcare workers across the world. As demand for qualified medical professionals rises globally, English-speaking countries such as the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Canada, and others now prioritise strong communication skills for patient safety.

The OET stands out because it tests both general English and healthcare-specific communication—making it ideal for nurses, doctors, dentists, pharmacists, and other professionals.

In 2024, OET acceptance increased further as more countries recognised its value in ensuring safe, accurate, and compassionate patient care. Every country has its own score requirements and licensing rules, so knowing what each nation accepts is essential for anyone planning to work abroad.

What Is the OET Exam? 

The Occupational English Test (OET) assesses your ability to communicate effectively in healthcare settings.
Unlike general English tests, OET focuses on real medical situations.

Why OET Is Different

• Built specifically for healthcare professionals

• Includes medical scenarios, vocabulary, and tasks

• Recognised by professional councils worldwide

• Helps candidates prepare for real patient interactions

Professions That Use OET

• Nurses

• Doctors

• Dentists

• Pharmacists

• Physiotherapists

• and other allied health roles

OET is not just an English test it is a career pathway for international healthcare practice.

Countries That Accept OET in 2024

OET is widely recognized across many healthcare systems for licensing, registration, and immigration.

Australia

• OET is accepted for nursing, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and allied health.

• Required for professional registration across all major healthcare boards.

• Strong focus on patient safety and communication.

United Kingdom (UK)

Accepted by:

• Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)

• General Medical Council (GMC)

The UK values professionals who can handle both technical and empathetic communication.

New Zealand

• Accepts OET for registration across multiple professions.

• Known for high healthcare standards and communication expectations.

Ireland

• Recognised for nurses, doctors, and other healthcare workers.

• Used for professional licensing and registration.

Canada (Partial Acceptance)

• Accepted in some provinces and healthcare organisations.

• Mainly for nursing and allied health.

Other Countries

• Singapore

• UAE (selected positions)

• Namibia

• Malta

These countries use OET to ensure safe communication in patient-care roles.

OET Exam Format & Structure (2024)

The OET has four sections, each designed around healthcare communication.

1. Listening (45 minutes)

• Based on real healthcare conversations

• Includes patient consultations, clinical discussions, and workplace communication

• Tests understanding of spoken English in medical settings

2. Reading (60 minutes)

Divided into three parts:

• Part A: Fast information search (scanning medical notes/texts)

• Part B & C: Understanding complex healthcare texts (guidelines, research, policies)

3. Writing (45 minutes)

• Write a profession-specific letter such as:

  • Referral letter

  • Discharge summary

  • Patient information letter

• Assesses clarity, structure, accuracy, and relevance

4. Speaking (20 minutes)

• Conduct role-play scenarios

• Includes patient-focused conversations

• Tests empathy, clarity, and communication skills

OET Scoring System 

Most countries require a minimum Grade B (350+) in all sub-tests.

How to Prepare for the OET Exam

Good preparation requires improving both general English and medical communication skills.

Improve Medical Vocabulary

• Learn terms for symptoms, conditions, treatments, and procedures

• Practice describing patient cases in simple, clear language

Practice Role-Play for Speaking

• Use role-play with mentors or classmates

• Focus on empathy, reassurance, and correct questioning

• Mirrors real test situations

Strengthen Listening Skills

• Use medical podcasts

• Practice patient-doctor conversation recordings

• Take short notes to identify key details

Master OET Writing Structure

• Study sample letters (referral, discharge, transfer)

• Practice writing within 45 minutes

• Focus on clarity, tone, and relevant information

Use Online Practice Platforms

Websites like OET Pro offer:

• Sample tests

• Practice questions

• Mock exams

• Module-wise lessons

These help you find weak areas and get used to the exam timing.

Conclusion

In 2024, the OET remains a crucial requirement for healthcare workers aiming for international careers. Its medical-specific focus makes it ideal for ensuring safe, accurate communication with patients and colleagues.

Countries like Australia, the UK, New Zealand, Ireland, and growing regions like Canada and UAE rely on OET for licensing and immigration. With global patient safety concerns increasing, OET plays a vital role in preparing healthcare professionals to deliver effective care in English-speaking environments.

By understanding score requirements, preparing strategically, and improving medical communication skills, healthcare professionals can confidently move toward successful international careers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the cost of the OET exam in 2024?

The exam fee is approximately $587 USD.

Q2. What OET score do nurses need for Canada in 2024?

Most provinces require a minimum of 350 (Grade B) in each sub-test.

Q3. Which countries accept OET?

• UK

• Australia

• New Zealand

• Ireland

• Singapore

• UAE (selected roles)

• Some provinces in Canada

Q4. How can I check my OET result?

Results are available 16 business days after the test.
Candidates can log in to their OET account online.

Q5. Is OET accepted in Canada?

Yes, but not nationwide.
Some provinces and healthcare employers accept it for nurses and healthcare workers.

Q6. What OET score is required for nurses in Australia in 2024?

Nurses must score 350+ (Grade B) in all four sub-tests.