Which test should I take, the OET or the IELTS, if I plan to study abroad?
16 Oct 2026 · Answered by Chaithrakala P L · 1 min read
Quick Answer
verified
The OET is an English test for healthcare workers such as doctors, nurses and pharmacists, while IELTS is for students and professionals who plan to study, work or migrate. OET scores go from 0 to 500, graded A to E, and IELTS from 0 to 9 bands.
The two tests check English skills but are made for different groups. If you are a healthcare professional, OET is the test meant for you, and IELTS suits most other students.
OET and IELTS Compared
| Feature | OET | IELTS |
|---|---|---|
| Meant for | Healthcare workers such as doctors, nurses and pharmacists | Students and professionals planning to study, work or migrate |
| Where used | English-speaking countries for study or work | English-speaking countries for study, work or migration |
| Scoring | 0 to 500, graded A to E | 0 to 9 bands |
Choosing Between Them
- Healthcare professionals typically take the OET.
- Students and other working professionals usually take IELTS.
- Converting OET scores to IELTS bands gives only a rough idea of how marks in one test match the other.
My Advice
Pick the test your target university or regulator asks for, as acceptance varies. Check the official pages for the score you need.
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