The OET Centre

PO Box 16136
Collins Street West, VIC 8007
Australia
Tel: +61 3 8656 4000
www.occupationalenglishtest.org

MEDIA RELEASE
30/09/2020

OET Launches Computer-based Testing

OET, the only global English language test designed for healthcare professionals, has launched a computer-based
test that nurses and doctors can take at over 270 venues in 49 countries.

The new test delivery mode will help OET reach more healthcare professionals looking to start their international
healthcare career. It will also ensure healthcare systems around the world have access to nurses and doctors with
the skills needed to provide safe, quality patient care.

OET’s computer-based testing at venues is accepted by major registration bodies in countries including the UK,
Australia and the USA. For a full list of recognising organisations, please see our website.

Three delivery modes, one test

With the launch of the computer-based test, OET candidates will be able to choose between three test delivery
modes: OET on paper, OET on computer at a venue and OET@Home, our remotely proctored computer-based
test.

The multi-modal approach to testing offers candidates choice, convenience and confidence. The tests themselves
are identical as test tasks, format and difficulty stay the same.

Importantly, OET on computer retains all the benefits of OET, including a healthcare-specific writing test and a live-
human role play.

OET’s Reading, Listening and Writing sub-tests will be delivered through computer, while the Speaking sub-test will
continue to be carried out by a human interlocutor via video conferencing software.

The human aspect of the OET Speaking sub-test and the role play task, both of which reflect best practice
communication in the healthcare industry, will not be compromised.

Reaching more healthcare professionals

The launch of OET on computer means more healthcare professionals can take OET and begin their international
healthcare careers. It also ensures healthcare systems continue to be staffed by nurses and doctors with the right
English language and communication skills to provide safe and effective patient care.

Sujata Stead, CEO of OET says: “OET’s vision is to connect the world to better healthcare and our computer-
based test ensures more healthcare professionals can sit OET and support global healthcare systems during this
tough time.”

“The COVID-19 pandemic has shown the need for a multi-modal approach to testing. By launching a computer-
based test, OET is able to expand our global testing capacity and frequency. It also offers candidates greater
choice, convenience and confidence to make their dream of working internationally a reality.”

OET is owned by Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment Trust (CBLA), a venture between Cambridge English and Box Hill Institute.
 The OET Centre
PO Box 16136
Collins Street West, VIC 8007
Australia
Tel: +61 3 8656 4000
www.occupationalenglishtest.org

Further information:

o OET on computer is currently by invitation only. The aim is to ensure candidates who find it impossible to
access a test venue can take OET.
o OET on computer will be open to all candidates for applications in October
o OET@Home will be launched in October

- END -

About OET

OET is an international English language test that assesses the language communication skills of healthcare
professionals who seek to register and practise in an English-speaking environment.

OET results are accepted by healthcare boards and councils in the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand,
Singapore, Dubai and Namibia as proof of English language proficiency. OET is also recognised by the Australian
Department of Immigration and Immigration New Zealand for visa purposes. In addition, educators in Australia,
New Zealand and Taiwan accept OET as proof of language proficiency for healthcare course admission and
graduation.

Available in over 150 venues in 45 countries, OET is owned by Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment, a
venture between Cambridge English and Box Hill Institute, Australia. For more information visit
http://www.occupationalenglishtest.org

For further information, please contact:

Michelle Coleman
Senior Brand and Marketing Manager
OET

Email: media@oet.com.au

OET is owned by Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment Trust (CBLA), a venture between Cambridge English and Box Hill Institute.