What do you bring to OET, and what are the test day rules?

On paper, arrive by the time your venue sets. For OET on Computer, arrive at least 30 minutes before Listening, Reading and Writing, and at least 30 minutes before a Speaking session at the venue. If you are late for registration you may not be allowed to sit, and if you are not in the room when the test starts you cannot take it (OET regulations; OET on Computer guide).

At a computer venue, staff check your ID, explain the rules, give you a locker for your belongings and phone, and take your photo. The security check asks you to remove glasses for inspection, pull up your sleeves, turn out your pockets and raise your trouser legs (OET on Computer guide). On paper, you leave your phone, watch and bag in the cloakroom, and your photo appears on your results (OET on Paper guide).

Listening, Reading and Writing run back to back with no scheduled breaks. On paper you may use the bathroom during Reading Part B and Writing, but not in the first or last 10 minutes; at a computer venue you raise your hand and wait to be escorted. No extra time is given for bathroom breaks (OET regulations). Do not open or write in the booklet, or touch the computer, until told to, and stop writing when time is called.

Do not eat, drink (except water) or smoke in the room, and do not leave without permission; you are not readmitted unless accompanied. Do not take question papers or answer sheets out, or record any part of the test. Using electronic items or unauthorised material is treated as malpractice (OET regulations).

OET@Home has its own rules: log on 15 minutes early, keep only your ID, a clear unlabelled water bottle and approved medication and snacks with you, and store your phone outside the room. You get one 10-minute break after Reading Part A, and must tell the proctor before leaving the camera; returning late ends the test. Headphones are not allowed for Speaking (OET regulations). More in can you take OET at home?. Rules change. Check the test owner's own page before you book or sit the test. This guide is general information, not official advice from the test owner.