exploring OET accepted countries 2025 updated list

Top OET Accepted Countries in 2025

Healthcare practitioners who hope to migrate and work in other countries usually pose one simple question: Which countries accept OET in 2025? The Occupational English Test (OET) is now considered the most reliable test for medical practitioners due to its unique ability to test English within the context of healthcare.

As compared to IELTS or TOEFL, which are general-purpose tests, OET is profession-specific and tests doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, physiotherapists, among others.

Its increasing popularity is an indication of international demand for healthcare professionals who not only speak English but are also able to converse effectively in clinical contexts. Every country has its own OET score requirements based on the profession and the registration authority.

OET Accepted Countries in 2025

Let us take a look at the top OET accepted countries of 2025 where medical professionals can establish their career.

United Kingdom (UK)

The OET for UK is the most sought-after one, as the NHS (National Health Service) still accepts international doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals.

Canada

Up to this point, Canada only accepted IELTS, but these days OET for Canada is now officially accepted for nursing registration and certain medical positions. This is a breakthrough for healthcare professionals who prefer OET’s medical emphasis as more practical.

Australia

Australia has been one of the earliest adopters of OET and hence one of the most popular options for professionals in nursing, medicine, and pharmacy.

New Zealand

Popular for its top-class healthcare system, OET is mostly accepted for nurses as well as physicians.

Ireland

Ireland welcomes OET for a vast array of healthcare professionals, making Ireland a favorite destination for individuals seeking EU healthcare market opportunities.

United States (USA)

In 2025, OET is spreading its wings in the USA, particularly among nursing boards of some states. Although not all states have it on their lists, recognition is increasing gradually.

Minimum OET Score Requirements in Each Country

Every country has different requirements. Here’s a summary of the OET score requirements in 2025:

UK (Nurses & Midwives): Grade B in Listening, Reading, and Speaking, and C+ in Writing (350+ in L, R, S and 300+ in W).

UK (Doctors – GMC): A minimum Grade B (350+) across all four sub-tests.

Canada (Nurses): Minimum Grade B (350+) in all four sub-tests.

Canada (Other professions): Different provincial regulatory bodies require different standards.

Australia (Nurses & Midwives): At least a Grade B (350+) in all four sub-tests.

Australia (Doctors): Same criteria: 350+ in each module.

New Zealand (Nurses): Grade B (350+) in Listening, Reading, and Speaking, and C+ (300+) in Writing.

New Zealand (Doctors): Grade B (350+) in all four sub-tests.

Ireland (Nurses & Midwives): Grade B (350+) in all sub-tests.

Ireland (Doctors): Same requirement: Grade B (350+) in all four modules.

USA (Nurses in certain states): All four modules at Grade B (350+).

USA (Other careers): Currently restricted, but growing recognition.

Differences Between Healthcare Professions

Although OET accepted countries in general create a high standard, the score requirements*vary slightly by career:

Nurses: Typically permitted C+ in Writing (UK & NZ), provided other modules are B (350+).

Doctors: Tighter regulations — the majority of nations demand a straight Grade B (350+) in all modules.

Pharmacists: Generally require Grade B across all four modules, as their profession involves clear communication.

Other allied health professionals (physiotherapists, radiographers, etc.): The majority of boards demand Grade B, although some differences exist based on regulatory councils.

This difference indicates that although the OET for UK may provide nurses with some flexibility, physicians and pharmacists tend to have stricter requirements.

How to Select the Best Destination

With several OET-accepted countries to choose from, selecting where to go relies on your professional goals, migration strategies, and your interests. Some considerations follow:

Job demand: The UK and Ireland are actively recruiting nurses, while Australia and New Zealand have strong demand for doctors and pharmacists.

Migration opportunities: Canada and Australia provide long-term pathways for permanent residency, making them attractive for many professionals.

Score flexibility: If you’re a nurse who struggles with writing, the UK and New Zealand might be more favorable, as they allow C+ in Writing.

Lifestyle habits: Others prefer the UK’s quick healthcare system, while others opt for the laid-back lifestyle of New Zealand or Australia.

Ease of regulation: Review the licensing process. For instance, OET for Canada needs language proof and more nursing exams such as NCLEX-RN.

In the end, your decision must weigh professional prospects, score requirements, and long-term settlement objectives.

Conclusion

In 2025, the list of OET accepted countries grows by leaps and bounds, providing more opportunities for healthcare professionals than ever before. From the UK and Canada to Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and the USA, OET is establishing its global reputation and usability.

Knowing the OET score requirements for your destination is the first step toward achieving your dream of working abroad. Whether you’re a nurse, doctor, or pharmacist, OET provides a profession-specific advantage that IELTS and other tests can’t match.

So, if you’re planning your migration in 2025, evaluate your goals, check the country-specific requirements, and choose the destination that aligns with your career and lifestyle aspirations.