Preparing for and taking the Occupational English Test (OET) can be a challenging yet exciting journey for healthcare professionals aiming to prove their English proficiency. From early morning nerves to the sense of relief after the final section, understanding what to expect on exam day can help you feel more prepared and confident.
In this article, we walk through a typical day in the life of an OET candidate, offering tips on how to navigate your exam day smoothly and maximize your performance.
Morning: Pre-Exam Preparation
6:00 AM – Wake Up and Energize
The day of your OET exam starts early. Set an alarm to give yourself enough time to get ready without feeling rushed. After waking up, take some time to stretch and clear your mind. It’s important to stay relaxed but alert. A healthy breakfast with protein, fruit, and whole grains will give you the energy you need for the long exam ahead.
Tip: Avoid caffeine overload. Too much coffee might increase anxiety, so stick to a balanced diet to maintain your focus throughout the day.
7:00 AM – Double-Check Your Materials
Make sure you have everything you need before leaving for the test center. Important items include:
- OET confirmation email or letter with your test registration details
- A valid, government-issued photo ID
- Pens, pencils, and erasers (although some test centers provide these)
- A clear water bottle (if allowed)
Be sure to dress comfortably, keeping in mind that exam rooms can sometimes be either too cold or too warm.
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Mid-Morning: Arrival and Registration
8:00 AM – Arriving at the Test Center
Arrive at the OET test center at least 45 minutes before the exam begins. This will give you time to complete any necessary registration procedures and get settled in the exam room.
- Check-In Process: You will be required to show your ID and may be asked to leave personal belongings (phones, bags, etc.) in a designated area.
- Room Setup: Once in the exam room, take a moment to familiarize yourself with your surroundings. Find your desk, make sure your seating is comfortable, and lay out your materials.
Tip: Don’t forget to breathe! Take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves before the exam starts.
Late Morning: OET Listening and Reading
9:00 AM – Listening Test (40 Minutes)
The OET begins with the Listening section, where you’ll hear various healthcare-related dialogues. You’ll be tested on your ability to extract key information, such as patient conditions, treatment plans, and instructions.
- Focus Areas: Stay focused and listen carefully, as you will only hear each recording once. Note-taking can be helpful, but don’t let it distract you from listening to the main points.
- Time Management: Each question will relate to specific parts of the audio, so read the questions before the recording starts to know what to listen for.
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10:00 AM – Reading Test (60 Minutes)
Next, you’ll tackle the Reading section, which consists of three parts. You’ll be required to read and comprehend a variety of medical texts, from research articles to case notes.
- Part A: Focus on skimming and scanning to complete this section in 15 minutes.
- Part B & C: These sections involve more in-depth comprehension, so read carefully and manage your time efficiently.
Tip: If a question stumps you, move on and come back to it later. Don’t waste time on one question when you could answer several others instead.
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Lunch Break
11:30 AM – Break Time
You will typically have a break between the Reading and Writing sections. Use this time wisely to refuel and relax.
- Lunch: Eat a light meal, such as a sandwich or salad, to keep your energy up without feeling sluggish. Stay hydrated with water.
- Relaxation: Take a short walk to clear your mind and stretch your muscles. Avoid cramming—your brain needs time to process the information you’ve already learned.
Tip: Avoid discussing the morning’s sections with other candidates. Overanalyzing your performance could increase stress and hurt your focus for the remaining tests.
Afternoon: OET Writing and Speaking
12:30 PM – Writing Test (45 Minutes)
The Writing section is one of the most important parts of the OET for healthcare professionals. You’ll be required to write a referral, discharge, or transfer letter based on a given case.
- Structure and Clarity: Pay attention to the task and structure your letter logically. Make sure your writing is clear, concise, and appropriate for the healthcare professional you are addressing.
- Key Information: Include all the essential patient details, but don’t overload your letter with unnecessary information.
Tip: Practice writing referral letters before the test to get comfortable with the format.
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1:30 PM – Speaking Test (20 Minutes)
Finally, the day concludes with the Speaking section, where you’ll participate in role-playing scenarios typical in healthcare settings. You’ll interact with the examiner as though they are a patient, discussing symptoms, treatment plans, or follow-up care.
- Confidence and Clarity: Speak clearly and confidently, and focus on using patient-friendly language.
- Empathy and Understanding: Demonstrate empathy and active listening skills during the role-play, which are crucial in real healthcare interactions.
Tip: Practice common speaking scenarios with a study partner to boost your confidence.
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Evening: Post-Exam Reflections
2:00 PM – Post-Exam Review
Once the exam is over, take a moment to reflect on your performance. While it’s natural to feel anxious about how you did, try not to overthink it. Remember, OET is designed to assess your practical English skills, and chances are you’ve done better than you think!
- Relaxation: Treat yourself to a relaxing activity—whether it’s meeting friends, watching a movie, or simply taking a nap. You deserve a break after all the hard work!
- Next Steps: If you feel confident, start looking ahead to your next steps—whether it’s applying for healthcare positions abroad or preparing for additional exams. If you’re unsure, wait for your results to arrive before making decisions.
Conclusion: Preparing for Success
The day of the OET exam is intense but manageable with the right preparation. By familiarizing yourself with the format and timing, you can approach the test with confidence and focus. Remember to balance preparation with self-care on exam day to ensure you’re in the best state of mind to succeed.
With proper planning, clear communication, and a calm approach, you’ll be well on your way to passing the OET and advancing your career as an international healthcare professional.
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