OET Speaking practice and private coaching
Start with free speaking practice on the website. When you want personal feedback, practice a role play with Alexandra in a free first 30 minute session. Private sessions are available if you choose to continue.
Prefer to start on your own? Try the free speaking practice and game.
What the OET Speaking test involves
You complete two role plays based on situations from your healthcare profession. You have time to read each role play card before the conversation starts.
Each role play lasts about five minutes. The interlocutor plays a patient or relative. You can refer to your card while you speak.
The conversations are recorded and assessed against OET's published Speaking criteria.
What assessors listen for
OET publishes Linguistic Criteria, including intelligibility and fluency, and Clinical Communication Criteria, including how you build a relationship, understand the patient's perspective, structure the conversation, and gather and give information. Alexandra uses both sets when giving feedback.
OET Speaking scores
OET Speaking is scored on a 0–500 scale, mapped to a letter grade. The UK's NMC requires at least Grade B (350) in Speaking; its Writing threshold is C+ (300). Check the current requirements of your own regulator.
| Grade | Score range | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A | 450–500 | High proficiency |
| B | 350–440 | Minimum for UK NMC Speaking registration |
| C+ | 300–340 | Accepted for UK NMC Writing, not UK NMC Speaking |
| C | 200–290 | Adequate |
| D | 100–190 | Limited |
| E | 0–90 | Very limited |
Requirements vary by regulator and profession. Check the UK NMC's OET requirements or the rules for your own registration body.
Timed mock test
If your package includes a mock test, you complete two timed, recorded role plays. Afterwards, Alexandra gives you written feedback against the published Speaking criteria and suggests what to practice next.
Coaching options and pricing
Choose between free website practice and three private coaching options. Your first 30 minute session with Alexandra is also free, with no obligation to continue.
View coaching pricesWho this is for
The current coaching materials focus on doctors and nurses preparing for OET Speaking. If you work in another profession, get in touch and tell Alexandra what you need.