English Language Proficiency Tests for Healthcare Professionals: IELTS vs OET

Roisin Bradley
May 12
4 min read

Updated: 17 hours ago

It is common for healthcare professionals to travel and work abroad. They want to expand their portfolios and experience other countries and cultures. However, before securing their dream job, professionals must obtain a license to practice in their chosen country.

This rigorous process almost always includes a language proficiency test. In other words...

Can you speak the language well enough to communicate effectively with patients and colleagues?

Many countries, such as Australia, Canada, the USA, and the UK, require competence in English. For this blog post, we will specifically discuss the International English Language Testing Systems (IELTS) and the Occupational English Test (OET).

What level of English is needed?
Differences Between the IELTS and OET
Choosing the Best Test Option
Preparing for an English Test
Finding Preparation Help

1. What level of English is needed?

First and foremost, it is essential to identify which tests are accepted by the licensing board in your desired country. Each professional body provides this information on its website.

For example, the UK Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC) and the General Medical Council (GMC) both accept IELTS and OET tests as proof of English proficiency.

To find further details on their exact requirements, follow the links below:

NMC - Click here for further information

GMC - Click here for further information

2. Differences Between the IELTS and OET

After researching test requirements, you will likely need to choose between the IELTS and OET. Some people find this choice straightforward, while others want to weigh up their options.

Here are some key considerations:

IELTS

Offers two different tests: General and Academic English. Healthcare professionals will likely need the Academic test for licensing, but always confirm with the relevant professional body first.
Candidates are assessed on four language skills (sub-tests): Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening.
Results are reported on a 9-band scale, including a band score for each of the four skills and an overall band score, all between 1 to 9.
IELTS assesses general English across a range of academic topics that aren't relevant to healthcare. It also includes skills like developing persuasive arguments and analysing data.
The test is widely recognised by English teachers globally, making it easy to find teachers and resources for efficient preparation.
Preparation costs can vary significantly, depending on the expertise of the teacher or language school. However, many online resources are available for free.
Overall, the IELTS exam is generally cheaper than the OET.

OET

Specifically designed for 12 healthcare professional groups, including nursing, medicine, and allied healthcare.
Also tests the four language skills (sub-tests): Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening.
Results are assigned on a scale from 0 to 500 and are mapped against letter grades from A (highest) to E (lowest). Each of the four sub-tests receives a score. From January 2025, OET are also offering an overall test score similar to IELTS.
Uses real-life clinical scenarios, making the content relatable for healthcare professionals.
OET preparation is designated as English for Specific Purposes (ESP). This may be new for many English teachers, especially those without healthcare backgrounds. Be cautious when investing in educational resources.
The assessment criteria is based on authentic communication in the healthcare setting, including appropriateness of language, intelligibility, and considerations for relationship building and understanding patients’ perspectives.

3. Choosing the Best Test Option

Clear and effective communication is the cornerstone of safe and high-quality patient care. To understand this further, check out the NHS Elect’s Seven C's of Communication here. This resource will also be helpful for job interview preparation in the UK.

Despite healthcare staff's best efforts, communication breakdowns can occur due to language barriers. Thus, avoiding these barriers is crucial.

In my experience coaching students who prepare for both exams, I believe the OET exam is the best choice for healthcare staff. Its preparation and exam materials closely align with healthcare contexts, allowing candidates to learn while also preparing effectively for their new jobs. There is an interesting study here about the OET exam and staff readiness for the workplace.

4. Preparing for an English Test

Many candidates with good English skills assume they don't need any test preparation as they're confident using the language. However, this assumption can be misleading. IELTS and OET both have a specific assessment format that candidates must familiarise themselves with before taking the exam.

Familiarising yourself with the test can happen through:

Targeted skill lessons that focus on the four sub-tests.
Writing tutorials that refine writing skills.
Addressing weak grammar and pronunciation points.
Conducting mock tests for all four sub-tests.
Utilising YouTube videos, social media posts, and various helpful websites.

A common mistake in the OET is candidates relying on their clinical knowledge to answer questions when the test is specifically designed to avoid this possibility. This mistake can result in incorrect answers and a loss of valuable marks.

5. Finding Preparation Help

I offer various online lessons tailored to your learning needs. At the time of writing, I am a freelance teacher for a globally recognised online language school, helping students prepare for their IELTS exams. My experience in this field is extensive.

Additionally, I am an OET Knowledge Teacher with private students. This work keeps me updated on healthcare topics and allows me to communicate confidently with healthcare staff due to my nursing background.

If you enjoyed this content, please hit the like button below or leave a comment.

Please also feel free to email me with questions or to discuss online lessons.

Bye for now, Roisin!

Email: roisin@eflteachernurseuk.com