Occupational English Test (OET) is an English language proficiency test designed specifically for healthcare professionals. It tests your ability to communicate effectively in the workplace and assesses your language skills in four areas: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The test is available in two formats: paper-based and computer-based. The test is recognised by regulatory healthcare bodies in the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. OET scores are reported on a scale of A to E, with A being the highest level of proficiency.

Criteria for accepting Occupational English Test (OET) certificates for PLAB part 1:

You must have taken the medicine version of the OET test.
You must have achieved at least a grade ‘B’ in each testing area (speaking, listening, reading, and writing) in the same test.
Your OET certificate must include your candidate number.
You must have obtained these grades in your most recent sitting of the test.

OET certificates are valid for two years. If you are taking the PLAB test, your certificate must be valid on the day of the exam. If you are applying for registration with a licence to practice, your certificate must be valid when your application is approved.

If your OET certificate is more than two years old and meets our minimum scores, you can provide additional evidence to demonstrate your English language proficiency. You can do this by submitting your OET candidate number and references from a tutor, lecturer, or employer who can vouch for your English language skills. The references must cover at least three months of full-time study or employment within the last two years in a country where English is the first and native language.