Let’s focus on the first change in a little more detail. Combining your OET exam scores, or “clubbing”, has now become much more flexible. This is because, whereas currently, you can only combine the scores of OET exams taken 6 months apart, this will soon be extended to 12 months. That means you will have a whole extra 6 months to book and prepare for your OET test if you don’t get the exact scores you need on the first go.
There is also greater flexibility in the type of results that can be combined. Right now, it is only possible to combine scores from test results in which you have scored no lower than a C+ in all of the subtests. But, once the changes come into effect, you will be able to combine scores from tests in which you have scored a half-grade below each of the required scores. So, that is: C+ for Listening, Reading and Speaking, and C for Writing. Do be aware, however, that in order for your test to be eligible for clubbing, your score for writing must be 250 or higher.
Look at the following example to see how scores will be able to be combined in order to pass the OET test.
| Test 1 | Test 2 | |
| OET Listening | C+ | B |
| OET Reading | C+ | B |
| OET Writing | C (250+) | C+ |
| OET Speaking | B | C+ |
Above you can see that all scores are within a half-score of the required sub-test grades. When combined, you will have the score that you need!
Allowing for supporting evidence
The second change that the NMC has made is to allow employers to provide supporting information to confirm a nurse’s English speaking proficiency. This supporting evidence can be used for nurses who have done their nursing training in English in a non-majority English speaking country. It can also be used for nurses who have just scored below the required OET grade in one of the subtests
When will these changes happen?
An exact date has not yet been announced but it is confirmed that the changes will occur in 2023.
What should I do now?
Well, there has never been a better time to begin your OET exam preparation than now! Our range of online OET courses can work around your busy schedule and get you the pass you need to achieve your dreams. We will even give you a 10% discount by entering code OETNURSE10 at checkout to help you on the way!
So join us today with OETNURSE10 and we will provide you with all of the guidance, preparation and information you need so that you are able to live and work as a nurse abroad.
