When planning to study abroad, there is a lot that you need to consider and prepare for. One key consideration is which exams to take. Several countries require a language test to prove your proficiency in the native language before you can apply to their universities or professional organisations. So, before you apply it’s only smart to take these tests and have your scores handy. But determining which test to take can be a bit confusing. And such a confusion is common when it comes to PTE and OET, two of the recognised English language proficiency tests. So, if you are dealing with such a confusion, let us help you out. With us, go through everything there is to know about PTE and OET and find the answer to the question, “which exam should you take”.
Let’s get started.
What is OET or the Occupational English Test?
OET or Occupational English Test is an internationally recognised English proficiency test that evaluates the language skills of healthcare professionals who plan to study or work in an English-speaking country. The OET online assesses the candidate’s ability to understand and communicate effectively in a healthcare setting through listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills. It is recognised by healthcare regulatory bodies, hospitals, and universities in several countries, including the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Dubai, and Singapore.
The OET is designed to replicate real-life healthcare scenarios such as patient consultations, writing referral letters, and making presentations. The test uses a unique scoring system that assesses candidates’ performance in each language skill, and it can be taken in paper or computer-based formats at various locations worldwide. OET gives the healthcare professionals an opportunity to showcase their language skills and meet language proficiency requirements for career advancement or immigration purposes. To prepare for this exam you can take OET online practice tests and measure your proficiency level.
What is PET or the Pearson Test of English?
The Pearson Test of English (PTE) is a computer-based English language proficiency test that evaluates a person’s reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. The test is primarily designed for non-native English speakers and is widely accepted by universities, colleges, and organisations worldwide for academic and immigration purposes.
The exam includes various question types that replicate real-life situations, such as summarising written or spoken texts, answering multiple-choice questions, and delivering oral presentations. The test is conducted in a secure test centre, and the computer-based format allows for completion within three hours.
As PTE scores are recognized and accepted by several organisations and institutions worldwide, it is a crucial tool for non-native English speakers looking to study or work in an English-speaking country.
Test Format
OET
- The OET is designed to evaluate the English language proficiency of healthcare professionals through a paper-based test that comprises four sub-tests: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
- The test aims to simulate real-life scenarios, with multiple-choice questions for the listening and reading subtests, and task-based assessments for the writing and speaking sub-tests.
- In the writing sub-test, candidates must compose a letter or report relevant to a healthcare situation, while the speaking sub-test involves role-playing with a healthcare professional.
PTE
- PTE is a computer-based test that assesses all four language skills: Speaking, Listening, Reading, and Writing.
- The Speaking and Writing section includes tasks such as reading aloud, repeating sentences, and writing essays.
- The Reading section includes multiple-choice questions, while the Listening section includes a range of question formats, including multiple-choice, highlight correct summary, and fill in the blanks.
Test Content
OET
- The OET evaluates the English language proficiency of healthcare professionals and emphasises language skills necessary in healthcare environments.
- The exam covers topics such as medical terminology and vocabulary, healthcare communication, and interactions with patients.
PTE
- PTE assesses all four language skills (Speaking, Listening, Reading, and Writing) and is designed to evaluate general English proficiency.
- The test includes topics from various fields such as science, technology, business, and academic subjects. It includes tasks such as reading aloud, repeating sentences, and writing essays.
Scoring System
PTE
- The PTE test is scored on a scale of 10-90, with 10 being the lowest score and 90 being the highest score.
OET
- The OET test is scored on a scale of A to E, with A being the highest score and E being the lowest score.
Both PTE and OET provide a detailed score report that includes the scores for each section of the test, enabling candidates to identify their strengths and weaknesses in the English language.
Reasons Why You Should Take PTE?
- Educational Opportunities: Many universities and educational institutions have proof of English language proficiency as a key requirement. The PTE is widely accepted by these institutions as a measure of language proficiency.
- Employment Opportunities: If you are planning to work in an English-speaking country, many employers require an English language proficiency test to measure your ability to freely interact in their native language. The PTE is recognised by a wide range of organisations, including healthcare, engineering, finance, and IT.
- Immigration Purposes: If you are planning to immigrate to an English-speaking country, you may be required to demonstrate your English language proficiency. The PTE is accepted by several immigration authorities, including the Australian Department of Home Affairs and the New Zealand Immigration Service.
Reasons Why You Should Take OET?
- Specific to Healthcare Professionals: The OET is designed specifically for healthcare professionals who are seeking to work or study in English-speaking countries. It tests the language skills that are relevant to healthcare communication, such as patient interactions, medical terminology, and writing clinical notes.
- Widely Accepted: The OET is recognised by a large number of regulatory bodies, employers, and educational institutions in the healthcare sector in English-speaking countries.
- Realistic Test Format: The OET test format is based on real-life healthcare communication scenarios, such as consultations, medical case notes, and referral letters. This makes it more relevant to healthcare professionals than other general English proficiency tests.
- Faster Career Advancement: The OET can help healthcare professionals to improve their career prospects and gain recognition for their language skills, leading to faster career advancement opportunities.
Conclusion: Make the Right Choice!
Both PTE and OET offer unique advantages and features. If you are a healthcare professional seeking to work in an English-speaking country, then OET would be the more appropriate choice. On the other hand, if you plan to study or work in a non-medical field in an English-speaking country, then PTE would be the more suitable option.
