Date: 17-03-2020

Confused about which test will you take to prove your level of English for immigration work purposes? Should you take a general English test like the International Language Testing System (IELTS) or a test specific to your profession like the healthcare-focused Occupational English Language Test (OET)?

Before making a decision, you need to know which one is the most suitable you. In this article we compile a quick guide to help you understand the difference between a general English, exam and a profession-specific one.

The differences and similarities between the IELTS and the OET

• Both the IELTS and the OET exams are accepted by the GMC and the NMC as proof that you can use the English language to the required level.
• They are both test include four English skills component namely reading, listening, speaking and writing
• IELTS and OET results are valid for not more than 2 years.
• Both tests are similar in length of time: IELTS (2 hrs. 45mins.) and OET ( 3 hours)
• In order for you to pass the IELTS, an overall score of 7.5 must be achieved with a minimum 7.0 in each of the test areas, while OET you need to achieve a minimum grade of B or 350 point score on all the test area in order to pass the OET.
• OET is significantly more expensive than IELTS.
• There are more IELTS examination dates available than the OET
• IELTS is viewed as a ‘GOLD STANDARD’ and is accepted everywhere. OET is accepted by smaller number of bodies and institutions.

 For most people IELTS is definitely a better choice because it covers more countries and provides you with a better understanding of complex English. On the other hand, as a healthcare professional, the OET could be a better option because it uses profession-specific content. It uses real healthcare scenarios which can make you feel more confident than an academic English test.

If you are moving to the UK, IELTS and OET are both used to test the English language of the doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals around the world. Both of these examinations are chosen by regulatory bodies to make sure that health care workers have sufficient language skills to communicate effectively with the patients and co-workers and to deliver adequate medical care.

 We hope that this helps you choose you your examination path.