GMC Registration: A Guide to the OET Test
The Occupational English Test (OET) is an English language examination specifically designed for healthcare professionals.
It evaluates the English language skills required to work in a healthcare setting, with a focus on reading, listening, writing, and speaking.
The OET offers 12 distinct versions tailored to different healthcare professions, including Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, and Pharmacy.
Doctors registering with the General Medical Council (GMC) must take the Medicine-specific version of the test.
OET Exam Structure
The OET is divided into four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
Listening (40 minutes):
This section includes three parts:
- Part A: Note-taking during two healthcare consultations (approximately 5 minutes each).
- Part B: Multiple-choice questions based on short workplace extracts (1 minute each).
- Part C: Multiple-choice questions based on two healthcare-related presentations (approximately 5 minutes each).
Reading (60 minutes):
This section has three parts:
- Part A: Expeditious reading tasks involving four short healthcare texts (15 minutes).
- Part B: Questions on six short healthcare workplace texts, such as guidelines and memos (45 minutes).
- Part C: Questions based on two longer healthcare-related texts.
Writing (45 minutes):
Candidates write a referral, transfer, or discharge letter based on provided case notes.
Scoring is based on criteria such as purpose, content, conciseness, style, and language.
Speaking (20 minutes):
Delivered as a role-play, this section assesses communication skills in healthcare scenarios. Each role-play lasts about 5 minutes and includes a preparation period.
Scoring
Each OET section is scored on a scale of 0-500 points, which corresponds to letter grades from E (lowest) to A(highest).
For GMC registration, candidates must achieve a minimum score of 350 (Grade B) in all four sections.
Costs
The OET costs $587 AUD, which is approximately £330. Fees may vary based on location and currency exchange rates.
Exam Dates and Locations
The OET is available in multiple countries and test centres. Test dates and venues can be found on the official OET website.
Practice Materials
Candidates can access official OET practice materials online to prepare effectively for the test.
These resources include sample questions, test guides, and tips tailored to each section of the exam.
