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Are you a healthcare professional aiming to work or study abroad? Then you’ve likely heard of the OET Exam. The Occupational English Test (OET) is your ticket to achieving those career dreams.
Did you know that India is one of the leading countries in the global study abroad market, contributing over 1.3 million students in 2023 alone?
We're here to break the complete OET Exam details down for you. Dive in!
OET Exam Fees and Other Highlights
Let's have a look at all the essential details of the OET exam to ensure you're fully informed and ready to excel.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| OET Full Form | Occupational English Test |
| Who takes the OET exam | Healthcare professionals aiming to pursue careers in the healthcare industry. |
| Top Countries Accepting OET |
Australia Canada Ireland Maldives New Zealand and Others |
| Conducted by | Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment Trust (CBLA) |
| Average OET Scores Required | Minimum 350 in each of the four sub-tests |
| Mode of Exam |
OET on Paper (at a test venue) OET Online (launched May 2024 - fully digital at venue) OET@Home (since Sep 2020, remote-proctored) |
| OET exam fees in India (2026) | AUD 587 (approx. INR 32,000-33,000 depending on FX) |
| OET Score Range | On a scale of A (Highest) to E (Lowest) |
| Top-Exam Centres for OET |
Thiruvananthapuram Bangalore Chennai Mumbai |
What is the OET Exam?
The Occupational English Test (OET) is a specialised English language proficiency test designed for healthcare professionals. It assesses the language skills necessary for effective communication in medical and healthcare settings.
Recognised globally, the OET is a crucial step for many aspiring healthcare professionals aiming to work or study abroad. Here are some of the key features:
1. Specialised for Healthcare
Tailored specifically for 12 different healthcare professions, including medicine, nursing, dentistry, and pharmacy.
2. Real-Life Contexts
Exam tasks are based on real-life workplace scenarios, making them highly relevant for healthcare professionals.
3. Global Recognition
Accepted by regulatory healthcare bodies and councils in countries like Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and the USA.
4. Comprehensive Assessment
Tests all four language skills – listening, reading, writing, and speaking – within a healthcare context.
5. Flexible Testing Options
Offers computer-based, paper-delivered tests and OET at Home, providing flexibility for test-takers.
6. Reliable Scoring
Provides a clear and accurate assessment of English language proficiency, with scores ranging from A (highest) to E (lowest).
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Who Conducts the OET Exam?
The OET (Occupational English Test) is conducted by Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment (CBLA). CBLA is a joint venture between Cambridge University Press and Box Hill Institute, responsible for developing and administering the test globally.
OET Test Modes: Paper, Online and @Home
OET is delivered in three formats so candidates can choose the most accessible option for their location and schedule:
- OET on Paper — the original venue-based paper test. Available at 19 test centres across India.
- OET Online — launched in May 2024, a fully computer-based version delivered at OET-approved digital venues. Faster results turnaround (~12 business days) and more frequent test dates.
- OET@Home — introduced in September 2020. Take the test remotely with live online proctoring. Available across most time-zones almost daily.
All three modes share the same four sub-tests (Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking), identical scoring (A-E scale; 0-500), and equivalent recognition by every regulator that accepts OET.
IELTS Vs OET
When planning to work or study abroad as a healthcare professional, choosing the right English language proficiency test is crucial.
Below is a comparison of IELTS vs OET to help you decide which exam best suits your needs.
| Criteria | IELTS | OET |
|---|---|---|
| Full Form | International English Language Testing System | Occupational English Test |
| Purpose | General English proficiency for academic, professional, and immigration purposes | English proficiency specifically for healthcare professionals |
| Test Takers | General candidates, students, professionals | Healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists |
| Accepted By | Universities, employers, immigration authorities worldwide | Regulatory healthcare bodies and councils in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, the USA, etc. |
| Conducted By | British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English | Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment Trust (CBLA) |
| Test Format | Academic and General Training | Profession-specific healthcare context |
| Skills Assessed | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking |
| Scoring System | 0-9 bands for each skill | Grade A (highest) to E (lowest) for each skill |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-based, Paper-based tests | Computer-based, Paper-delivered tests, OET at Home |
| Duration | 2 hours and 45 minutes | Approximately 3 hours |
| Content | General topics suitable for a wide audience | Healthcare-specific scenarios and tasks |
| Test Availability | Available throughout the year | Specific test dates, typically once or twice a month |
| IELTS vs OET Exam Fees | Computer-delivered: INR 17,000 Paper-based: INR 17,000 |
INR 32,206 |
| Preparation | General English language materials | Profession-specific preparation materials |
| Results Validity | 2 years | 2 years |
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OET Exam Eligibility Criteria
Let’s explore the detailed requirements to determine if you're ready to take this critical step toward your international healthcare career.
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
| Age Limit | No age limit is specified by the CBLA. |
| Recognised Professions | Dentistry, Dietetics, Medicine, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Optometry, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Radiography, Speech Pathology, Veterinary Science. |
| Educational Qualification | Must have completed relevant professional education or training in the respective healthcare field from a recognised institution. |
| Language Proficiency | A good command of English is required, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking in a healthcare context. |
| Professional Experience | It is not mandatory, but having practical experience in a healthcare setting is beneficial. |
| Registration with Regulatory Bodies | Candidates may need to be registered or in the process of registration with a healthcare regulatory body in the desired country. |
Minimal Documentation. Higher Chances of Approval. Easy Online Processes. Check Your Eligibility.
OET Exam Registration
The process of OET Exam registration involves a few easy steps as below:
1. Visit the Official Website
Go to the OET official website at oet.com.
2. Book a Test
Select the "Book a Test" option on the homepage.
3. Choose Test Details
Select your test location, preferred test centre, and test type (computer-based or paper-based). Then, click the "Book Now" option.
4. Fill in Personal and Academic Information
Enter your personal and academic details as required.
5. Select Test Date and Centre
After entering your details, choose your desired test date and centre.
6. Review and Payment
Review all the entered information. Once satisfied, proceed to make the payment to complete the registration process.
Note: After completing the registration, you will receive a booking confirmation email. This email will contain all the details about the exam venue and other important information.
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With your registration details sorted, it’s time to understand the OET exam fees to ensure you’re fully prepared.
OET Exam Fees
The OET exam fee varies depending on your location. Here's a detailed breakdown.
Full OET Test Fees
The full Test, which includes all four sub-tests (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking), OET exam fees are listed below.
| Candidate Type | OET Exam Fees | Fees in INR (Based on Exchange Rates) |
| Indian Candidates | AUD 587 (Full Test, 2026) | Approx. INR 32,000 - 33,000 (varies with FX) |
| USA Candidates | USD 460 (Full Test, 2026) | Approx. INR 38,000 - 39,000 (varies with FX) |
Individual Sub-tests Fees
If you’d like to book individual sub-tests on paper at a venue, the OET exam fees are as follows (including the INR 388 online booking fee):
| Number of Sub-tests | Today’s OET Exam Fees (INR) |
|---|---|
| 1 sub-test | INR 17,707.70 |
| 2 sub-tests | INR 23,312.70 |
| 3 sub-tests | INR 28,917.70 |
Please note: This option is only available if you’ve previously taken the full OET Test.
OET Exam Fees: Cancellation and OET Fee Refunds
You can easily cancel your OET Test booking through your OET account. Below are the conditions and fees for each test type, depending on your location. Be cautious when cancelling your OET Test, as it cannot be reversed.
Here’s what you need to know:
OET on Paper at a Venue
You can cancel your OET Test for a refund up to one week before the test day. For example, if your test day is Friday, you can cancel up to 11:59 pm (23:59) on the previous Saturday.
1. Log into your OET account.
2. Find the booking you wish to cancel and click Withdraw
OET on a Computer at a Venue/OET at Home
You can cancel your test for a refund up to two days before the test. For example, if your test is at 9 am (09:00) on Saturday, you can cancel up to 9 am (09:00) on the previous Thursday.
1. Log into your OET account.
2. On your dashboard, click My Bookings on the left-hand side
3. Find the booking you wish to cancel and click Cancel booking
Now that you're aware of the OET exam fees let’s explore the refund policy to help you navigate any changes in your plans.
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OET Exam Fees: Refund Policy
The refund amount depends on the cancellation fees, which vary based on your test type, location, and when you cancel your test.
For OET on Paper at a Venue
If you cancel before bookings close, the cancellation fee is INR 6,662.40 (plus the INR 388.64 non-refundable booking fee). If you cancel after bookings close, the cancellation fee is INR 11,104 (plus the INR 388.64 non-refundable booking fee).
Cancellations submitted before the closing date:
If you cancel the full OET Test (four sub-tests) before the booking closing date, your refund will be INR 25,939.20. For less than 4 sub-tests:
1. 1 sub-test: INR 10,445.76
2. 2 sub-tests: INR 15,987.84
3. 3 sub-tests: INR 21,529.92
Cancellations submitted after the closing date:
If you cancel the full OET Test (four sub-tests) after the booking closing date (until 23:59 the week before test day), your refund will be INR 21,097.60. For less than 4 sub-tests:
1. 1 sub-test: INR 5,994.56
2. 2 sub-tests: INR 11,536.64
3. 3 sub-tests: INR 17,078.72
OET on a Computer at a Venue/OET at Home
If you cancel before bookings close, the cancellation fee is INR 6,662.40 (or INR 5,273.60 for OET Tests in the USA).
If you cancel after bookings close, the cancellation fee is INR 11,104 (or INR 8,608.60 for OET Tests in the USA).
OET Rescheduling Fees
Candidates have the option to change their OET test dates. However, rescheduling fees may apply, and the exact amount can vary depending on the country and the specific test centre.
| Test Type | Timeline | Charges (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Reschedule OET on Paper | Up to the booking closing date | INR 6,495.88 |
| Reschedule OET on Paper | After the booking closing date | INR 10,664 |
| Reschedule OET on a Computer at a Venue, or OET@Home | Up to 7 days before the test | INR 6,495.88 |
| Reschedule OET on a Computer at a Venue, or OET@Home | Less than 7 days before the test | INR 10,664 |
| Speaking Reschedule Fees | Up to 7 days before the test | INR 1,599.6 |
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OET Exam Dates 2026
Planning to take the OET (Occupational English Test) in 2026? OET test dates are scheduled across three modes — OET on Paper (multiple paper-based dates each month at venues), OET Online (computer-based at OET-approved venues, launched May 2024) and OET@Home (remote-proctored 24x7 across most slots). Always confirm the latest schedule on the official portal at oet.com — OET adds and amends dates regularly.
| Test Mode | Frequency in 2026 | Registration Window | Result Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| OET on Paper (at venue) | 2-4 dates per month (Sat) — full 2026 calendar published on `oet.com/test-information/test-dates` | Bookings typically close ~3 weeks before test day | ~16 business days after test |
| OET Online (at venue) | Multiple dates each month at OET-approved digital venues | Bookings close ~1-2 weeks before test day | ~12 business days after test |
| OET@Home (remote) | Available almost daily — book any open slot via your candidate account | Bookings close ~24 hours before chosen slot | ~12 business days after test |
For exact 2026 test dates by city and mode, visit `oet.com/test-information/test-dates`. OET allows up to 12 attempts in a 12-month rolling window.
OET Exam Centres in India
Did you know that India offers 19 OET exam centres across various cities? So whether you're planning to pay your OET exam fees today in Kerala or up north in Delhi, you can find a convenient centre for your needs.
| State | City | Centre Names |
|---|---|---|
| Kerala | Calicut | |
| Angamaly | ||
| Cochin | ||
| Kottayam | Ebek and Cambridge University Press India | |
| Trivandrum | Burlington English and Ebek | |
| Maharashtra | Mumbai | Teleperformance, Prometric Testing Pvt Ltd |
| Tamil Nadu | Coimbatore | PeopleEnglish and Planet EDU |
| Chennai | Prometric Testing Pvt Ltd | |
| Delhi NCR | Gurgaon | Prometric Testing Pvt Ltd |
| New Delhi | Planet EDU (Hotel Country Inn & Suites By Radisson) | |
| Ghaziabad | Planet EDU (Hotel Ramada Gurgaon Central) | |
| Telangana | Hyderabad | Cambridge University Press India, Prometric Testing Pvt Ltd |
| Karnataka | Bengaluru | PEARL Academy, Planet EDU |
OET Exam Pattern
The Occupational English Test (OET) is designed to assess your English language proficiency in a healthcare context.
| Section | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Listening | 45 minutes | Three parts testing various listening skills. |
| Reading | 60 minutes | Three parts assessing different reading capabilities. |
| Writing | 45 minutes | Profession-specific letter writing. |
| Speaking | 20 minutes | Roleplay in a healthcare setting. |
OET Exam Preparation Tips
1. Know the Test Format
Familiarise yourself with the Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking sections. Review sample questions to understand the format and manage your time effectively.
2. Practice Healthcare Scenarios
Use real-life medical texts and role-plays to prepare for context-specific tasks in the Speaking and Writing sections.
3. Enhance Medical Vocabulary
Regularly review and practise healthcare terminology. Use flashcards or apps to improve your recall of essential terms.
4. Use Official Prep Materials
Utilise OET practice tests, study guides, and courses to get structured practice and expert advice.
5. Stick to a Study Plan
Create and follow a detailed study schedule, assess your progress regularly, and include breaks to avoid burnout.
Recommended OET Exam Books
Here are some of the best books for preparing for the Occupational English Test (OET).
| OET Exam Book | Price |
| OET Pulse | AUD $14.41 (approx. INR 800) |
| Official OET Ready – Online Course for Medicine | AUD $39.99 (approx. INR 2,220) |
| The Official Guide to OET (2nd edition) | Kindle Edition: INR 982.80 Paperback: INR 1,640.00 |
OET Exam Results
After taking the OET, candidates can access their test scores online 12 business days from the test date. To view your scores, log in to your OET profile using your credentials. You can also download a hard copy of your OET statement of results from the online profile.
Organisations Accepting OET Results
Various global organisations recognise OET results for professional registration and visa applications.
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