Rules, comparisons and data

How late can you book the OET test?

For OET on Computer and OET@Home, bookings close 7 calendar days (11:59 pm UTC) before the scheduled start of your sub-tests. OET on Paper stays open until its published test closing date. You can hold only one booking per test administration, across all delivery modes, and bookings depend on seat availability.
  • Guide updated · 30 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026

Booking deadlines by mode

From OET's test regulations and OET on Computer page.

ModeBooking closes
OET on PaperAt the published test closing date
OET on Computer7 calendar days (11:59 pm UTC) before the scheduled start
OET@Home7 calendar days (11:59 pm UTC) before the scheduled start

Rules that catch people out

You cannot hold more than one booking in the same test administration, even across different modes, and you may not get a full refund if you do (OET regulations).

On computer and at home, Listening, Reading and Writing are taken together, and Speaking must fall in the same test administration, usually within 8 days before or after. If you sit only Speaking and miss the other sub-tests, no result is published and there is no refund (OET regulations).

All four sub-tests are required the first time you sit OET (OET on Paper).

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After you book

You get a confirmation email. For OET on Computer and OET@Home, a reminder comes 48 hours before Listening, Reading and Writing, and a Speaking reminder with your confirmation number and password no later than 24 hours before. Contact OET Support if no confirmation arrives within 24 hours (OET regulations). Rules and fees change. Check the test owner's own page for your country before you book or pay. This guide is general information, not official advice from the test owner.

Frequently asked questions

Can I book OET a few days before the test?+

Not for OET on Computer or OET@Home: bookings close 7 calendar days before. OET on Paper closes at its published closing date.

Can I hold two OET bookings to get an earlier date?+

No. Only one booking per test administration is allowed, across all modes, and you may lose part of your refund.

Do I need to book all four sub-tests?+

Yes, the first time. Later, single sub-tests can be booked only for OET on Paper, if your regulator accepts them.

When do I get my OET timetable?+

For OET on Paper, the venue sends it up to 48 hours before test day.

Keep reading

Related

Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.

© 2026 BandLadder. Written and checked by the BandLadder team. You may quote or cite this page with credit to BandLadder and a link to it; republishing it in full needs our written permission. Content use policy

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