What is expected in OET Speaking Subtest?

The Speaking sub-test is delivered independently and takes approximately 20 minutes. OET Speaking is
profession-specific. In each role-play, the candidates take their professional roles while the interlocutor
plays the role of a patient/client. The OET speaking sub-test measures the ability of the test takers to
speak effectively in healthcare settings.

The identity and occupation details of the test takers are checked by the interlocutor and there is a short
warm-up conversation session in each Speaking test. After that, the role-plays are introduced, one by
one, and candidates are given 2-3 minutes to get ready for each. The duration of the two role-plays is five
minutes each. The role-plays are based on classic workplace situations and reflect the professional
demands made in those situations. Diverse role-plays are used for different candidates at the same test
administration. The interlocutor also follows a script.

OET Nursing Speaking Tips

Finish on time Each role-play is planned to obtain a measurable illustration of speech which reflects the
speaking ability of the test takers in a health profession context. It is natural for a role-play to move toward
the end at about the 5-minute mark. If this does not occur, the Interlocutor will give an indication that it is
time to finish the role-play.
Take notes The test takers can take notes on the role-play cards if they want. These notes can be referred
to the card at any time during the role-play. Candidates must return the card to the Interlocutor at the end of
the role-play.
You must start the conversation Some candidates make the mistake of waiting for the other person
(interlocutor) to start the conversation. In this case, imagine that you are in a healthcare setting and you are
the nurse, doctor or dentist. This means you are in control and not the OET person.
 Keep conversations going It is up to you to continue the conversation. If the conversation stops and
stillness occurs you need to bring it back to life. Remember, OET Speaking assesses your skills and not the
interlocutors; hence it is your responsibility to keep the conversation going.
Listen carefully- Although OET speaking is a test of your speaking abilities, it also tests your listening
abilities. In order to reply correctly, you need to recognize what the patient says. This can only be done if
you listen carefully, comprehend and then answer.
Look into the eyes of the Examiner Always maintain appropriate eye-contact with the assessor. It makes
you look confident. Typically nervous candidates look here and there and it becomes tricky for the assessor
to recognize what the speaker is trying to say. Rather, looking into the eyes of the examiner keeps you
focused and make you look confident.
Organize your ideas for the role-play- If you want grade A in the OET Speaking sub-test, you will have to
organize your thoughts or opinions for the role play into clear stages with an introduction, body, and
conclusion. In the introduction part, you can introduce yourself, greet the patient and sum up the situation. In
the body part, you can go through the tasks, one-by-one and in the conclusion, you should summarize the
role play.
Know the marking criteria- Your performance for OET speaking subtest for each of the two role-plays is
scored against five criteria, which are- intelligibility, overall communicative effectiveness, fluency,
appropriateness and resources of grammar and expression.
Take help- Sample tests help candidates prepare for the exam. These tests help you to be confident in the
role-play and prepare well for speaking test. Candidates who pay attention to the details of the specific
role-play task, and who are familiar with the assessment criteria, have a better chance of performing well
and demonstrate their ability in the key areas.