How long is the OET valid?
By Gemma Raw
You’ve passed all four sub-tests of the Occupational English Test (OET) to practice in the UK. Your OET Statement of Results (certification) will remain valid for two years. This means that you will not need to prove your English language skills again within this timeframe.
Can I gain registration to practice while studying for the OET?
No, you can’t. If you’re applying to a regulatory body for registration to practice and are not on the exempt list of overseas health and social care professionals, you must have proof (certification) of achieving the required score on the OET or the IELTS.
Likewise, if you are taking certain tests as part of your registration, for example the General Medical Council (GMC) PLAB test, you’ll need to have passed the OET or IELTS first.
What are the rules for taking the OET in different sittings?
Before you take the exam in different sittings, you need to check that the regulatory body for your profession accepts this. For instance, the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) will allow results from two sittings, but the exams must have been taken within six months of one another. Secondly, there are certain rules the OET expects you to follow. For example, if you’re taking the OET on Paper test at a venue, you must sit all sub-tests the first time you take the OET. If you fail a sub-test, you may be able to re-take that individual test (again, check with the relevant body).
With the computer-based OET, you must take the listening, writing and reading tests together and the speaking test within the same administration (normally 5 days before or after). If you do not complete the speaking element within this timeframe, you’ll be required to sit the tests again.
What if my OET certificate is more than two years old?
Each professional regulatory body is different, so it is important to check with them to know what you need to do. The GMC, for example, expects you to prove that you have kept your English skills up to date rather than making you resit the OET. Usually, you’ll be asked to submit your OET candidate number and a reference from your employer.
Top tip: You will need to give permission to your Regulatory Authority to view your OET results in the OET online portal.
For more information about overseas worker requirements, please read our collection of blogs.
