For many Refugee and Asylum-Seeker Healthcare Professionals (RASHPs), the journey into healthcare systems like the NHS in the UK is not just a professional challenge—it’s a deeply personal endeavour, shaped by resilience, determination and hope for a meaningful future. A recent study highlights how the OET Test is helping to transform this journey, empowering skilled healthcare professionals to overcome barriers, gain confidence and rebuild their careers in the UK’s healthcare system. 

More than a test: a pathway to purpose 

Unlike traditional English language exams, the OET Test is tailored specifically for healthcare professionals, focusing on real-world scenarios like patient consultations, medical handovers and communicating with colleagues. This focus makes the OET Test not just an assessment tool but a meaningful step towards integration into a new healthcare system. 

Key themes from the study: 

• The power of relevant test content: A remarkable 84% of RASHPs in the study chose the OET Test over IELTS to meet the English language proficiency requirements for NHS registration. Participants described how the OET Test’s relevance to their professional context helped make the process more accessible and achievable. One participant said, “It’s more specific for the medical field, so the exam is not that difficult because they are using the medical terminology, the topics mainly about medicine, pharmacy, dentists and about public health, so things related to health more, which are more relevant to what we are doing.” Another doctor shared, “I attempted twice IELTS which I thought is really hard, and was not relevant to my major... So the only thing is the OET was really more relevant to our major, and to my profession.” 

• A lifeline after failing other tests: Many participants shared stories of success with OET after struggling with alternative tests. One doctor explained, “I managed to get the scoring in IELTS, but I couldn’t manage to get the requirements in each part. So, every time I had a problem with one of the parts, but luckily, there was the other exam which is the OET […] and I passed it.” 

For many, these features of the OET Test transformed the daunting challenge of registration into a meaningful milestone in their professional journey. 

Bridging gaps, building futures
 

At OET, we understand that passing an English language test is just one part of the bigger picture. Refugee and asylum-seeker healthcare professionals often face additional challenges, from financial barriers to limited access to preparation resources.  

That’s why we’ve created initiatives like the OET Refugee Scholarship Programme, which offers free tests and preparation materials to eligible candidates via our partnerships with leading organisation supporting these communities. 

By addressing these barriers, we’re not only supporting individuals but also contributing to a stronger and more inclusive healthcare workforce.  

Join the conversation 

Supporting refugee and asylum-seeker healthcare professionals isn’t just OET’s mission—it’s a collective responsibility. By working together, we can ensure these skilled individuals have access to the opportunities and support they need to make a lasting impact. 

If you’re a healthcare professional looking to take the next step, or an organisation passionate about fostering inclusivity and innovation, we’d love to hear from you. Let’s collaborate to create pathways for growth, understanding and success. 

Because when skilled professionals thrive, patients and healthcare systems benefit—and together, we all move forward. 

Find about more about our support for refugee and asylum seeker healthcare professionals or contact us today.