OET Exam for Nurses 2025: Date, Pattern, Syllabus, & More

The Occupational English Test (OET) is gaining global popularity among healthcare professionals for its focus on clinical communication. Over 60,000 candidates take the exam annually, and this number is expected to grow as more countries adopt healthcare-specific language standards.

The Canadian Nurse Regulators Collaborative (CNRC) recognizes the OET exam for nurses as the accepted language test for nursing licensure in Canada, with requirements of Grade B in Listening/Speaking and C+ in Reading/Writing. As Canada faces a 60,000-nurse shortage by 2025, OET supports skilled entry into nursing courses in Canada, though IRCC doesn't accept it for general immigration.  

This blog covers essential details about the OET Exam Guide 2025 for nurses, including dates, syllabus, and its importance for practicing in Canada.

For nurses aiming to advance their careers in English-speaking countries, the OET exam for nurses is more than just a language test. It is a tailored assessment of your communication skills in real clinical environments. Unlike generic proficiency exams, the OET evaluates your ability to interact with patients, write medical referrals and understand healthcare-specific language, making it especially relevant for nursing professionals. 

Demand for the OET has grown significantly in recent years. In 2022/23 alone, nearly 14,000 international nurses used their OET results to register with the UK’s Nursing and Midwifery Council, surpassing IELTS as the preferred choice among recruiters and NHS employers. The test is also offered globally, with around 24 test sessions annually, and is recognized by over 70 healthcare regulators worldwide, including in Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and beyond. 

This guide dives into the essentials you need to know such as eligibility requirements, exam format and syllabus, key dates and deadlines, fees, and more so you can prepare strategically and confidently pursue your international nursing ambitions. 

OET Exam for Nurses: Overview

The Occupational English Test (OET) for nurses is a specialized English language exam designed to assess the communication skills of healthcare professionals in medical settings. Over 70 healthcare regulators worldwide, including those in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland, recognize the OET Exam for Nurses.

Below is a summary table highlighting the key details of the Occupational English Test (OET) for nurses, including its duration, structure, and fees.

Before registering for the OET exam, it’s essential to understand the eligibility criteria for nurses in 2025.

OET Exam for Nurses: Eligibility in 2025

The Occupational English Test (OET) Exam for Nurses is accepted by healthcare regulators in over 15 countries, including Australia, the UK, and New Zealand. With over 2,000 test sessions held annually, many nurses take the exam, reflecting the high demand for qualified professionals in English-speaking healthcare.

Below is a comprehensive table summarizing the key OET Eligibility Criteria, including minimum score requirements:

Here’s an overview of the OET exam format and detailed syllabus explicitly tailored for nurses to help you better understand what to expect.

OET Exam for Nurses: Format & Syllabus

The OET is purpose-built to assess and improve communication skills of healthcare professionals in clinical settings. According to the official OET website, the test is conducted in over 60 countries and is held more than 12 times annually, allowing flexibility for global candidates.

Understanding the exam format is essential to preparing strategically and meeting registration requirements set by organizations like the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and AHPRA.

Format of OET Exam for Nurses

According to the OET Official Annual Review, over 62,000 candidates from 120+ countries took the test, with nurses making up the largest group of test-takers. Furthermore, 95% of healthcare employers surveyed agreed that OET more accurately reflects the language skills needed on the job compared to other English tests.

The table below summarizes the duration, OET Exam Pattern and Format, content, and key skills assessed in each sub-test of the Occupational English Test (OET) for Nurses.

To plan your exam journey effectively, staying updated with the official OET test dates and registration deadlines for 2025 is essential. The section below outlines the key dates every nursing candidate should know.

OET Exam for Nurses: Dates & Deadlines

Timely registration is crucial for candidates preparing for the OET exam for nurses. The Occupational English Test (OET) for Nurses is conducted multiple times throughout the year, offering flexibility to accommodate various schedules. In 2025, the OET is typically offered 14 times annually, with OET Exam dates usually set for Saturdays.

The table below shows all the important test dates and deadlines nurses must know in 2025.

Once you're familiar with the exam dates and deadlines, the next important step is completing your registration. Here's a step-by-step guide on registering for the Occupational English Test (OET) for Nurses 2025.

How to Register For the OET Exam for Nurses?

Registering for the OET Exam Bookings is straightforward and designed to accommodate candidates worldwide. During registration, use a valid government-issued ID and verify all personal details. Check test format availability and understand cancellation policies to avoid fees.

Next, here are the essential steps you need to follow to register for the Occupational English Test (OET) for Nurses.

1. Visit the Official OET Website: Go to oet.com to start your registration process.
2. Create an Account: Sign up by providing details to set up your candidate profile.
3. Choose Your Test Date and Location: You can select your preferred test date and location or opt for the OET@Home format if available in your region.
4. Select Your Profession: Choose the relevant healthcare profession, such as Nursing, Medicine, or Pharmacy.
5. Make Payment: Complete the payment online using the available payment methods, like credit cards. The OET Exam fees vary by location but generally range around AUD 587 (INR 32.3K) 
6. Receive Confirmation: After payment, you’ll receive an email confirmation with your test details and guidelines.
7. Prepare for Test Day: Follow the instructions provided and prepare accordingly for your exam date by reviewing our tips to prepare for the OET exam for nurses.

Before booking your test, it’s essential to understand the costs involved. The section below outlines the current exam fees for the OET exam for nurses, including applicable formats and currency conversions.

Exam Fees for the OET Exam for Nurses

An insightful statistic from OET reveals that 85% of test-takers perceive the exam as offering excellent or above-average value for money, highlighting its relevance and quality. 

The fee of AUD 587 (INR 32.3K) encompasses all four sub-tests: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, each tailored to reflect real-world healthcare scenarios.

The following table summarizes the key fees related to the Occupational English Test (OET) for Nurses in 2025:

After understanding the exam structure and fees, knowing how the OET exam for nurses is scored and what levels you need to achieve for professional success is essential.

OET Exam for Nurses: Levels & Scores

Understanding the scoring system is essential for candidates preparing for the OET exam for nurses. The Occupational English Test (OET) for Nurses assesses English proficiency in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, grading each sub-test from A to E. 

To meet regulatory requirements for Canadian nursing registration, candidates typically need at least Grade B in Listening and Speaking and Grade C+ in Reading and Writing.

This table provides a clear snapshot of the OET exam for nurses grading system.

To successfully schedule your OET exam for nurses, knowing the available test centres across India where you can take the Occupational English Test (OET) for Nurses is important.

OET Exam Centres in India

For nurses preparing for the OET exam for nurses, selecting a convenient test centre is a crucial step. The Occupational English Test (OET) for Nurses is conducted at multiple authorised locations across India to facilitate easy access for candidates. As of 2025, there are over 15 official OET test centres in major cities.

Below is a list of authorised OET exam centres for nurses across India, offering multiple test dates throughout 2025 for your convenience.

Before registering and appearing for the OET exam for nurses, you must familiarize yourself with the key rules and regulations that ensure a smooth and fair testing experience.

OET Exam Rules and Regulations You Must Know

Understanding the official rules and regulations is vital for all candidates preparing for the OET exam for nurses. Globally, adherence to these guidelines has contributed to a 99.9% smooth examination process, ensuring fairness and security across all test centres. 

Here are the key rules every test-taker must follow:

• Identification: Candidates must bring a valid government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or national ID) matching their registration details. No ID means no entry to the test centre.
• Arrival Time: Please arrive at the test centre at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time. Late arrivals may be denied entry or have their exam time reduced.
• Personal Belongings: Mobile phones, smartwatches, and electronic devices are strictly prohibited inside the exam room. Only essential stationery (pens, pencils, erasers) is allowed.
• Test Materials: Candidates receive official test materials at the centre. No personal notes, textbooks, or aids are permitted during the OET exam for nurses.
• Speaking Test: The speaking sub-test is conducted face-to-face with an examiner in a separate room. Recording or electronic devices are not allowed.
• Conduct: Any cheating, misconduct, or disruptive behaviour will result in immediate disqualification, and results will be withheld.
• Result Validity: OET results are valid for two years from the test date. Retakes are allowed if candidates do not achieve the required grades.

Candidates are advised to review all guidelines on the official OET website before their test day to avoid any issues. 

Understanding the benefits and advantages of the OET exam for nurses can help you decide why this test is the preferred choice for healthcare professionals worldwide.

Why Should You Take the OET Exam for Nurses?

The OET exam for nurses is now a top English test for healthcare professionals aiming to work in OET Accepted countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK. There is a 15% rise in the number of test takers from the previous year, indicating a growing demand for the exam.

Here’s why taking the Occupational English Test (OET) for Nurses is a wise choice:

• Healthcare-Specific Assessment: Unlike general English tests, the OET exam for nurses is tailored to healthcare contexts, making it more relevant and practical for nursing professionals.
• Recognition by Regulators: The OET is officially recognised by over 15 nursing and healthcare regulatory bodies worldwide, including the Canadian Nurse Regulators Collaborative (CNRC) and the UK Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).
• Improved Employment Prospects: Nurses who clear the OET often experience faster licensing processes and better job opportunities in English-speaking countries like the UK.
• Professional Communication Skills: The test focuses on workplace scenarios, such as patient consultations and patient handovers, enhancing nurses’ ability to communicate effectively with patients and colleagues.
• Flexible Test Dates and Locations: With more than 250 test centres in over 40 countries, including India, candidates can choose convenient dates throughout the year.
• High Pass Rates: The OET provides a pass rate of approximately 80% among healthcare candidates, demonstrating its balanced challenge and fairness.
• Supportive Preparation and Flexible Testing: Official preparation materials are widely available to help candidates improve efficiently, while computer-based testing options offer greater flexibility. Additionally, OET results remain valid for two years, giving you ample time for immigration processes.
• Focus on Patient Safety: The OET helps reduce medical errors and improve healthcare outcomes by emphasizing clear communication.

The OET exam for nurses certifies your English proficiency for clinical environments. The OET remains a critical step for nurses aspiring to international careers.

Conclusion

The OET exam for nurses has become one of the most trusted pathways for healthcare professionals seeking opportunities in English-speaking countries. By testing language proficiency through real nursing scenarios, it ensures that candidates are well-prepared for practical communication in hospitals and clinics. With its growing acceptance among global regulators, OET continues to offer nurses a professional advantage in 2025.

Whether you are planning to register abroad or enhance your career prospects, understanding the exam’s eligibility, format, and fees is the first step toward achieving your goals.