OET & IELTS English Language Exams Guide

jakubdebski7
Apr 22
2 min read

When preparing for English language proficiency exams, healthcare professionals often choose between the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Occupational English Test (OET). Understanding the similarities and differences between these exams can help determine which aligns best with your needs.

Test Contents

Both the IELTS and OET exams assess four of the fundamental language skills, listening, reading, writing and speaking. However, the contents differ from one another:

· Listening:

IELTS: Features recordings with a variety of accents and dialects in academic and general contexts. (approximate duration: 45 minutes)

OET: Presents audio specific to healthcare scenarios, reflecting real-life medical interactions. (approximate duration: 45 minutes)

· Reading:

IELTS: Includes texts from diverse academic subjects such as recycling and astronomy. (approximate duration: 60 minutes)

OET: Utilises healthcare-related texts, including point-of-care scenarios and workplace communications. (approximate duration: 60 minutes)

· Writing:

IELTS: Requires candidates to complete two tasks: a 150-word letter and a 250-word essay on general topics. (approximate duration: 60 minutes)

OET: Involves writing a letter (e.g., referral, transfer, or discharge) based on provided medical case notes. (approximate duration: 45 minutes)

· Speaking:

IELTS: Assesses the ability to discuss a range of general topics. (approximate duration: 11-14 minutes)

OET: Focuses on role-plays and scenarios specific to healthcare settings, simulating real-life patient interactions. (approximate duration: 20 minutes)

Grading System

The scoring mechanisms of IELTS and OET vary:

IELTS:

Employs a 9-band scale, with scores ranging from 0 (non-user) to 9 (expert user). An overall band score is calculated by averaging the scores from the four sections.

OET:

Uses a grading scale from A (highest) to E (lowest), with numeric scores assigned to each grade. For example, Grade A corresponds to scores between 450–500 points.

Cost Breakdown & Availability

Exam fees and availability differ between the two tests:

IELTS:

Costs vary by location, averaging around £200–£220 in the UK. The exam is available up to 48 times a year across numerous test centres worldwide.

OET:

The fee is approximately AUD $587 (about £330). The test is offered up to 14 times per year in over 35 countries.

Preparing for the exams

IELTS:

Preparation involves mastering a broad range of academic topics, vocabulary, and writing skills applicable to general academic contexts.

OET:

Preparation focuses on healthcare-specific terminology and scenarios, such as writing referral letters or conducting professional discussions.

Choosing between the OET and IELTS

Deciding which exam is best for you should ultimately be based on your professional background and individual requirements. It's worth noting that both examinations are recognised by the General Medical Council (GMC).

OET:

Ideal for healthcare professionals aiming to work or study in English-speaking medical environments, as it assesses language skills in medical contexts.

Book a test: https://oet.com/test/book-a-test

IELTS:

Suitable for individuals seeking academic admission or immigration opportunities in English-speaking countries, covering a broad range of general topics.

Book a test: https://ielts.org/test-centres