The Occupational English Test (OET) is designed for healthcare professionals aiming to work in countries where English is the primary language. It began in Australia in the late 1980s. The OET tests skills in reading, listening, writing, and speaking. OET is conducted at over 120 locations in 40 countries. It covers 12 healthcare fields: medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and physiotherapy. Regulatory bodies in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore recognise it for healthcare registration and visas. Don’t forget to consider the OET exam fees when taking the test. Read this article to discover more information about the test fees.
Exam Fee For OET
The OET exam costs AUD 587. In Indian Rupees, that’s INR 32,381.06.
The OET exam fees stay the same most of the time. They are updated annually. The fees for the OET exam are listed in Australian Dollars (AUD). In other countries, like India, the fees may differ slightly due to exchange rate changes. However, the core fees in AUD stay the same.
OET Exam Fees For Sub-tests
The OET exam fee depends on the number of sub-tests a candidate takes. Below is the latest fee structure for OET exam fees for sub-tests:
| OET Sub-sections | Fee (AUD) |
| Full OET Test (4 sub-tests) | 587 |
| 3 Sub-tests | 515 |
| 2 Sub-tests | 415 |
| 1 Sub-test | 315 |
Note: All fees include a non-refundable AUD 7 online booking charge.
OET Exam Modes
You can take the OET exam in different ways.
Paper-based exam at a test centre
Candidates can take the traditional paper-based OET at one of the many global test centres offering this format. In this version, responses for the Listening, Reading, and Writing sub-tests are written by hand and submitted at the test centre.
- Listening: Approximately 45 minutes
- Reading: 60 minutes
- Writing: 45 minutes
The Speaking sub-test is conducted in person at the test centre with an interlocutor who plays the role of a patient or a patient’s relative. This session lasts about 20 minutes and is recorded and sent for assessment along with the written papers.
Candidates receive their exam schedule, including specific sub-test timings, at least one week before the test date.
Computer-based exam at a test venue
Through a collaboration with Prometric, OET now offers a computer-based test for Medicine and Nursing candidates at select test centres worldwide.
In this format:
- The listening, reading, and writing sub-tests are taken on a computer. Candidates use headphones to listen and type responses directly on-screen. Answers are submitted online.
- Speaking is conducted separately via Zoom on a computer or tablet at home or another chosen location. Candidates must ensure a quiet, distraction-free environment. Mobile phones are not permitted. Before the test, an interlocutor verifies the setting and identity.
Candidates can check their test schedule, including Speaking sub-test details, in the ‘My Bookings’ section of their OET account. The test content remains the same as the paper-based version.
To take the exam at home, candidates must:
- Use a computer with a stable internet connection (minimum 0.5 Mbps speed)
- Use wired headphones (mobile phones and tablets are not allowed)
- Download and use the ProProctor application for the Listening, Reading, and Writing sub-tests
- Take the Speaking sub-test on Zoom with an interlocutor
A remote proctor ensures test security and assists candidates if any technical issues arise. Once the security checks are complete, the exam follows the same structure as the computer-based test.
Fees For Different Exam Modes
The fees for all exam modes are the same. It’s AUD 587 (INR 32,382) for the full exam.
OET Exam Fees: Refund & Withdrawal Process
The refund of OET exam fees depends on when you withdraw. The non-refundable booking fee is AUD 7. This fee will always be deducted from any refund.
| Withdrawal Timing | Refund Amount |
| Before the OET closing date | AUD 467 (AUD 587 – AUD 120 withdrawal fee) |
| 1 week before the test (before Sunday midnight) | AUD 387 (AUD 587 – AUD 200 withdrawal fee) |
| Less than 1 week before the test (after Sunday) | No refund |
| Booking fee | Non-refundable (AUD 587) |
Candidates wishing to withdraw their OET booking must visit the official website and log into their myOET account. There, they will find an option to ‘Withdraw’ their test alongside information regarding the refund amount they may receive upon cancellation.
It is crucial to understand that NO refunds will be issued for withdrawals made less than a week before the test. Candidates must withdraw from the entire booking, including all subtests, and once a withdrawal request is submitted, it cannot be undone. If a cancellation occurs before the booking deadline, a fee of AU$120 (plus a non-refundable booking fee of AU$7) applies.
For those cancelling the full OET Test (four sub-tests) before this deadline, the refund will be AU$460. If fewer than four sub-tests are booked, the refund amounts are as follows:
- 1 sub-test: AU$188
- 2 sub-tests: AU$288
- 3 sub-tests: AU$388
For cancellations after the booking deadline, the fee increases to AU$200 (plus the AU$7 non-refundable booking fee). If the full OET Test is cancelled after this date (up until 23:59 the week before the test), the refund will be AU$380. For tests with fewer than four sub-tests, the refund amounts are:
- 1 sub-test: AU$108
- 2 sub-tests: AU$208
- 3 sub-tests: AU$308
Refund Options for OET Exam Fees (Computer-Based Format)
Regarding OET exam fee refunds for computer-based tests, candidates must cancel their booking at least two days before their first test to qualify for a refund. They should log into their account to access their OET registration page and request a withdrawal. Those who cancel less than two days before the test will not receive any refund. The cancellation fees for computer-based tests are as follows:
- Before bookings close: AU$120 with a full refund of AU$460.
- After bookings close: AU$200, with a full refund of AU$380.
Key Dates for OET Fee Refunds
Refund requests for OET exam fees will be processed within 7-10 business days and credited to the original card used for payment. Candidates must contact support through the official website for assistance if that card has expired.
OET Exam 2025 Registration
Candidates intending to take the OET exam must complete their registration through the official OET website. The registration process is conducted exclusively online, and candidates need to create an OET login to access the myOET portal and proceed with their registration.
Key Points to Remember
- Please register using your current personal email address. Avoid using a work or academic email, as it may become inaccessible later.
- Carefully review the OET Privacy Policy, Terms and Conditions, and Collection Notice, and accept them to finalise your registration. Your test booking is confirmed only when you click ‘I Agree’ on the registration page.
- The OET login ID used during registration must be presented on the test day at the exam venue.
OET Slot Booking
To book an OET exam slot, candidates must complete their registration by selecting the following:
- The preferred exam mode (paper-based, computer-based, or at-home testing)
- The OET exam centre (if applicable)
- The OET exam date
Candidates are also required to pay the applicable OET exam fees as part of the booking process.
OET Exam 2025 Pattern & Syllabus
The Occupational English Test (OET) assesses all four language skills, with a strong focus on effective communication in healthcare settings. Candidates taking the OET will be tested across the following sections:
| OET Exam Sections | Test Duration | Description |
| Listening | 45 minutes | Divided into three parts, this section assesses candidates’ ability to understand spoken English in different healthcare contexts. |
| Reading | 60 minutes | Also divided into three parts, this section evaluates candidates’ reading comprehension using various healthcare-related texts. |
| Writing | 40 minutes | A profession-specific task requiring candidates to write a referral letter or a similar healthcare-related document. |
| Speaking | 20 minutes | A profession-specific role-play where candidates interact with an interlocutor, taking on the role of a healthcare professional in a simulated consultation. |
This exam structure ensures that candidates are tested on real-world healthcare communication skills essential for working in English-speaking medical environments.
Top Tips to Prepare for the OET Exam
Preparing for the Occupational English Test (OET) requires a well-planned approach that strengthens language and medical communication abilities. Here are some essential tips to help you perform your best.
1. Understand the OET Format
It is crucial to familiarise yourself with the exam structure. Reviewing past papers and sample questions will help you understand the tasks you will encounter.
2. Develop Healthcare-Specific Language Skills
Since OET assesses your ability to communicate in medical settings, building a strong foundation in medical terminology is essential. Reading medical journals, patient case studies, and NHS or WHO guidelines can enhance your understanding of real-world healthcare conversations and documents.
3. Strengthen Your Listening Skills
Listening to healthcare podcasts, medical lectures, and patient consultations will improve your understanding of different accents, tones, and speech patterns. Practising note-taking while listening to real-life consultations can also help you retain key details more effectively.
4. Enhance Your Reading Abilities
To excel in the reading sub-test, it is important to develop the ability to skim through texts quickly while retaining key information. Reading hospital reports, research papers, and healthcare articles will help you adapt to different types of medical writing. Regular practice with comprehension exercises will further refine your ability to answer multiple-choice and short-answer questions efficiently.
5. Perfect Your Writing Skills
The writing sub-test requires candidates to draft a structured and professional letter, such as a referral or discharge letter. Learning the correct OET letter format, maintaining a clear and concise tone, and ensuring logical organisation of information are key to scoring well. Timed practice will help you manage your time effectively during the actual test.
6. Improve Your Speaking Fluency
Practising role-plays with a partner or mentor will help you gain confidence in handling medical consultations. Since the speaking sub-test assesses your ability to interact with patients, focusing on clarity, tone, and pronunciation is essential. Simulating real-life scenarios where you explain medical conditions or provide reassurance will improve your communication ability. Recording your responses and reviewing them will also highlight areas that need improvement.
7. Take OET Mock Tests
Attempting full-length practice tests under timed conditions is one of the best preparation methods. Mock tests help you assess your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to focus on areas that need improvement. Analysing your mistakes and understanding the scoring criteria will enable you to refine your approach before the actual exam.
8. Learn Time Management
Managing time effectively is critical for success in the OET. Practising under timed conditions for each sub-test will help you develop a strategy to balance accuracy and speed. Starting with precision and gradually working on efficiency will ensure you complete all sections within the given time frame.
9. Seek Professional Guidance
For targeted improvement, consider enrolling in OET preparation courses or working with a language coach who can provide personalised feedback. Joining online study groups and discussion forums can also give you valuable insights from other test-takers and experts.
10. Stay Confident & Well-Rested
A well-rested mind performs significantly better. Ensure you get enough rest before your exam day to stay focused. If taking the test at a centre, arrive early to avoid any last-minute stress. If opting for an online test, double-check your setup in advance to prevent technical issues. Staying confident and calm will help you tackle the exam with a clear and focused mind.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the OET exam fees and refund policies is essential for candidates planning to take the test. The fees vary based on the test format and cancellation timing, with specific amounts for full tests and individual sub-tests. Candidates should know the cancellation deadlines to maximise their refunds and avoid unnecessary fees. By staying informed about these details, candidates can effectively manage their OET bookings and ensure a smoother testing experience.
FAQ
What is the full cost of the OET exam?
The OET exam costs AUD 587 or INR 32,206. This price covers all four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
Can I take only a few OET sub-tests?
Yes, candidates can take 3, 2, or even just 1 sub-test of the OET exam. The fees will be adjusted accordingly.
Are there any OET exam cancellation fees?
Cancellation fees are AUD 460 if you cancel before the booking closes. After the booking closes, the fee drops to AUD 380.
How often can I take the OET exam?
Candidates can take the OET exam multiple times. It is available twice a month.
What are the documents that you should bring for the OET exam?
Bring a valid passport, a national identity card, or an Aadhar card for the OET exam.
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