What Is Involved in the OET Exam
At the assessment, students are expected to show confidence in using English.
It is important as they are going to work in various medical establishments in the UK.
For example, they have to listen to several texts and answer questions.
Texts may be in various formats:
- A dialogue between a consultant and a patient
- A talk on a specific medical issue
- A meeting of staff discussing the improvements of the facilities in a clinic.
The writing may involve creating a report, a proposal on improving the patient's care or a referral letter.
Various texts are offered for reading and answering questions.
The candidates need to show that they understand the purpose of the text, the main idea or particular details.
The questions may require:
- Giving short answers to multiple-choice questions
- Matching headings to the paragraphs
- Finishing a sentence with a word from the text.
The exam starts with speaking.
The candidates talk to the examiner about their previous medical experience.
They also mention their aspirations and goals to work in the UK in the healthcare sector.
Then a role play is set up between a doctor and a patient.
This checks the ability of the candidate to use correct vocabulary and grammar to make the conversation meaningful.