Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
The 12 professions and delivery modes
From OET's test page, OET on Computer page and OET on Paper page. The Computer page lists all 12 professions. The Paper page lists seven under "who can take" it, though its own FAQ says both modes are now available for all 12, so confirm your profession on the booking page.
| Profession | Listed for OET on Computer | Listed for OET on Paper |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine | Yes | Yes |
| Nursing | Yes | Yes |
| Dentistry | Yes | Yes |
| Pharmacy | Yes | Yes |
| Physiotherapy | Yes | Yes |
| Radiology | Yes | Yes |
| Veterinary Science | Yes | Yes |
| Dietetics | Yes | Not in the list |
| Podiatry | Yes | Not in the list |
| Occupational Therapy | Yes | Not in the list |
| Optometry | Yes | Not in the list |
| Speech Pathology | Yes | Not in the list |
What changes by profession
Listening and Reading are common to all candidates and cover general healthcare topics. Writing is a task from your profession, such as a referral, advice letter, or transfer or discharge letter, and Speaking is a role play set in your profession (OET).
OET says the test assesses language, not medical knowledge, which is why the shared sub-tests avoid profession-specific content (OET).
Know your target? Check where you stand
Take a free AI-scored IELTS mock and see your score per skill before you book the real test. Free account, no card.
Take a free mock →Practise before you book: free IELTS mock test, IELTS reading practice, IELTS listening practice and IELTS speaking predictions.
If you are not a health professional
OET says that if you are not a health professional working towards registration in an English-speaking setting, it may not be the most suitable test for you, and suggests checking with the relevant regulator first (OET). 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
How many professions does OET cover?+
12, from medicine and nursing to optometry and speech pathology.
Is OET only for nurses and doctors?+
No. It covers 12 healthcare professions, including pharmacy, physiotherapy, dentistry and veterinary science.
Are all OET sub-tests profession-specific?+
No. Writing and Speaking are; Listening and Reading are the same for every profession.
Can I take OET if I am not in healthcare?+
OET says it may not be the most suitable test for you, and recommends checking with the relevant authority first.
Keep reading
Related
- OET exam pattern 2026
- OET vs IELTS for nurses
- OET on paper vs on computer
- OET exam fee 2026
- All 3112 guides
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