OET vs IELTS: What is the Difference Between OET and IELTS Exam?

IELTS and OET are the two most important English language proficiency exams in the world. Deciding between IELTS and OET depends on your higher education goals. OET is specifically designed for healthcare professionals. On the other hand, IELTS offers a broader range of applications. 

One of the prerequisites for going abroad to pursue higher education is the possession of an English Language Proficiency exam certificate or score. Oftentimes, students are left in a state of confusion when it comes to appearing for OET or IELTS exam. Both exams evaluate the English language skills of candidates. Students frequently question which exam is simpler and which exam is better for them.

Before we move on to the topic which is the need of the hour i.e. OET vs IELTS, let us first understand what these tests actually mean. The basic difference between these two exams is that IELTS scores are used for a wider range of purposes, such as seeking academic or general employment opportunities. In contrast, the OET exam is used to test the proficiency of healthcare workers in various parts of the world. In this blog, we will help you to understand the basic difference between these two exams, so you can select the best one for you.

Difference Between OET and IELTS?

Confused between OET and IELTS exams? Given below is a visual comparative representation of OET vs IELTS.

While both exams measure the English language abilities of the candidates. It is important to understand the admission requirements before applying for the test. A lot of times the university/institute could prefer a particular exam over another. This is entirely at the discretion of the university's admission guidelines. Candidates should keep in mind that while the OET exam is limited to healthcare professionals, the IELTS exam covers a more generic base of students.

What is IELTS?

IELTS or International English Language Testing System is an English language exam that is required to be taken by international students who are considering studying or working in a country where English is the main language to communication. The most popular countries where IELTS scores are accepted for university admissions are the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. IELTS measures the ability to communicate in the four basic English language skills – reading, listening, writing, and speaking. The IELTS exam is jointly owned and conducted by IDP Education, the British Council, and Cambridge English Language Assessment. The IELTS Fee in India is INR 18,000 from March 2025.

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What is OET?

OET more commonly referred to as the Occupational English Test, is an exclusive English language test that has been designed for health care professionals. Conducted by CBLA or Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment, the OET exam is required for healthcare professionals who are looking to work or study in the healthcare sector in the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Ukraine, Dubai, and other English-speaking countries.

OET evaluates the English language skills of healthcare professionals to ensure they can provide high-quality care. Nowadays, many organisations, including hospitals, universities, and colleges, are using OET scores as proof of students’ ability to communicate effectively in a demanding healthcare environment. OET measures all four language skills, namely listening, writing, reading and speaking, with an emphasis on a healthcare environment.

Applicants who wish to take the exam can explore the OET 4-Week Preparation Plan to enhance their skills. OET exam has been specifically designed for 12 healthcare professions, including Occupational Therapy, Dentistry, Nursing, Radiography, Veterinary Science, Medicine, Speech Pathology, Physiotherapy, Dietetics, Podiatry, Pharmacy, and Optometry.

Know More About OET Here:

IELTS or OET: Which is Easier?

Now, we know that IELTS and OET are both English assessment tests. If a student’s English level is not up to the required standard, then he/she will not be able to pass either of the tests. In short, if a student’s English level is good enough, then it does not matter which test is easier. As such, no evidence shows which test is easier – IELTS or OET.

Both these tests vary in terms of difficulty. However, many consider OET an easier test. This is because it is specific to healthcare, and the test-takers can make use of their healthcare knowledge, vocabulary, and experiences. IELTS, on the other hand, is not specific to the healthcare profession. In IELTS, the topics and content covered as questions will be more general and taken from various sources.

Choosing between IELTS and OET depends on your career goals. The decision should be aligned to your future goal. IELTS is for those who want to study or work abroad, other than medical professionals, while OET is ideal for healthcare professionals only. Both test English skills effectively, but OET may feel easier for those with medical backgrounds. Always check your institution’s or employer’s specific requirements before deciding.

Candidates looking for assistance with university admissions can get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors on our website to avail of Shiksha Counselling Services.