OET vs IELTS for Healthcare Professionals (UK Focus): Which English Test Should You Take?
- Jan 27
- 2 min read
Choosing between OET vs IELTS is one of the biggest decisions for healthcare professionals who want to work, register, or progress their career in the UK (and globally). Both exams can be accepted depending on your pathway — but they test different skills, in different ways.
This guide explains the difference between OET and IELTS, why some healthcare candidates prefer IELTS, why many healthcare staff prefer OET, plus the pros and cons of each — and how to choose the right course support.
Quick answer: OET vs IELTS — what’s the difference?
OET (Occupational English Test) is designed for healthcare communication. It tests English you use in clinical settings (speaking to patients, writing referral letters, understanding workplace conversations).IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a general English exam used across universities, visas, and employers. It tests broader academic/professional English.
Which is easier: OET or IELTS?
Neither test is “easy” — but one may feel easier depending on your strengths.
OET may feel easier if you’re confident communicating in healthcare situations and you prefer practical, job-based tasks.
IELTS may feel easier if you’re stronger in general English, you’re comfortable writing essays, and you prefer non-clinical speaking.
Pros and cons
OET pros
Highly relevant for healthcare
Practical speaking and writing tasks
OET cons
Writing format can be challenging (selecting the right information, tone, structure)
Speaking role-plays can feel intense under exam pressure
IELTS pros
Very widely recognised
Huge range of resources
IELTS cons
Less healthcare-focused
Essay writing can be difficult without practice
How to choose (fast checklist)
Choose OET if you want healthcare-based tasks and your pathway accepts it. Choose IELTS if you want broader flexibility or prefer general English tasks.
Need support? We offer OET and IELTS courses (face-to-face and online)
At Live Language, we run OET and IELTS preparation in two formats:
Face-to-face courses (ideal if you want structure, accountability and live practice)
Online courses (ideal if you're balancing shifts or studying from overseas)
Our next face-to-face OET course starts in May, and students can book online.
Ready to book your OET Exam? You can book here!
Join us in Glasgow for your OET Preparation Course - 1 week of OET Preparation with Mock tests and feedback from our qualified OET teachers - we are a OET Premium Preparation Provider and have been teaching English for almost 25 years!
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