Here's what you need to know about the Speaking sub-test
OET Speaking sub-test
OET Speaking, at a glance
Handy guides to help you get started
The Speaking sub-test is recorded and the audio is assessed by two official OET assessors using the official OET Linguistic and Clinical Communication Criteria.
Yes, you can make notes on the role-play cards if you want, and you can refer to the card at any time during the role-play. You must return the card to the Interlocutor at the end of the role-play.
Each role-play is designed to elicit an assessable sample of speech which reflects your speaking ability in a health profession context. It is usual for a role-play to come to a natural end at around the 5-minute mark. If this does not happen, the Interlocutor will signal clearly that it is time to conclude the role-play.
There is no penalty for not completing all the elements on the role card. However, the more elements of the role-play you cover, the more evidence you are likely to give of your ability to communicate in spoken English. Use the preparation time to think about which elements of the role-play might require you to explain something in more detail or to ask the patient for more clarification.
An important part of a healthcare professional’s role is the ability to communicate effectively in speech with patients or clients. The role-plays allow candidates to demonstrate the ability to deal with common workplace situations.
These situations may include elements of tension which are a normal part of the real-life context. You may experience anxious or angry patients, patients who misunderstand their situation and limited time in which to explain instructions.
Having two role-plays provides two separate opportunities to demonstrate spoken proficiency. Two scenarios provide a chance to use different kinds of language, giving assessors a broader view of the candidate’s spoken skills.
You will interact with the interlocutor via Zoom. Check our our user guide for more information.
You should aim to achieve the highest level in the descriptors for each criteria. Test-takers securing grade B will have achieved predominantly scores of 5 out of 6 on each linguistic criteria and 2 out of 3 for the clinical communication criteria.
