When OET results are released
Timings are indicative, can be earlier or later around public holidays, and may take longer if extra quality or security checks are needed (OET Handbook). You get an email when results are ready and can see them in your OET account.
| Mode | Results released |
|---|---|
| OET on Computer | In as little as 48 hours after all four sub-tests; 95% within 6 calendar days |
| OET@Home | As early as 48 hours after all sub-tests |
| OET on Paper | From 5 days after the test in India and the Philippines; from 13 days elsewhere |
How long OET is valid
OET says there is no global validity period; the organisation you apply to decides (OET Handbook). These are the rules each body publishes.
| Organisation | How recent the OET must be |
|---|---|
| NMC (UK nurses) | Taken in the two years before the NMC assesses your complete application |
| GMC (UK doctors) | Two years; valid on PLAB 1 day or when registration is approved |
| Ahpra (Australia) | Two years before you lodge your application, with limited exceptions |
| Home Affairs (Australia visas) | 3 years before the visa application, depending on subclass; 12 months for functional English |
| Nursing Council of NZ | All sittings within the three years before your application |
| NMBI (Ireland nurses) | Less than two years old |
| CNO (Ontario nurses) | Written within two years of registering; one-time one-year extension |
| BCCNM (BC nurses) | No more than two years old |
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Sending results to a regulator
You share results by giving an organisation access through your OET account, and you can remove access at any time (OET Handbook). OET recommends that organisations accept results only when shared digitally through its portals (OET). The NMC and GMC both ask you to grant this permission before applying, and ECFMG receives OET Medicine results using your MyIntealth ID (ECFMG).
Re-marks and missed sub-tests
You can ask for a re-mark of one or more sub-tests within 72 hours of results being released (Test Regulations). It costs AU$120 per sub-test, takes three to six weeks, and the fee is refunded if your grade changes. A re-mark can raise, lower or not change your score, and your Statement of Results then shows only the re-marked score.
If you do not attend a sub-test, it is scored zero and shows as a blank. If you miss all four, you get no Statement of Results. For the related costs, see OET exam fee 2026.
Frequently asked questions
How long do OET results take?+
On computer and at home, as little as 48 hours after all four sub-tests, with 95% within 6 calendar days. On paper, from 5 days in India and the Philippines and from 13 days elsewhere.
How long is an OET score valid?+
OET sets no fixed period. Most regulators, including the NMC, GMC, Ahpra and NMBI, accept results up to two years old.
Can I get my OET re-marked?+
Yes, within 72 hours of results being released, for AU$120 per sub-test. The fee is refunded if your grade changes.
How do I send my OET results to the NMC or GMC?+
Give the organisation access to your results through your OET account before you apply, and provide your candidate number.
Keep reading
Related
Verified against the linked official sources on 14 October 2026. Rules change: confirm on the official page before you book or apply.
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