Author Archives: OET Bank

Common Reasons OET Reading Scores Drop (and How to Fix Them)

OET Reading: How to Keep Your Scores Steady

Many candidates experience a puzzling drop in their OET Reading score after initially achieving 350 or higher on their first attempt. Compared to IELTS or TOEFL, OET questions are relatively straightforward and predictable — which can make candidates overconfident. You might think, “Reading shouldn’t be a problem…” But that assumption can backfire. Many IMGs who […]

Research vs Clinical Fellowship for IMGs in the USA

Research vs Clinical Fellowship for IMGs in the USA

For IMGs who already hold a specialist qualification in their home country, there are generally two main ways to begin a U.S. career: These two routes differ significantly in terms of salary structure, visa types, proximity to permanent residency, and licensing requirements such as the USMLE or state medical license. Here’s a brief comparison for […]

OET Clinical Communication Criteria in Action

OET Clinical Communication Criteria in Action

In this article, we’ll go through the flow after the greeting stage and the essential phrases you should practice. Clinical Communication Criteria Strategies Let’s quickly review the overall flow of a role-play scenario: In this article, we’ll focus on stages two and onward. 2. Patient Emotionally Explains Their Symptoms Once the role play starts, the […]

OET Clinical Communication Criteria Made Simple

OET Clinical Communication Criteria Made Simple

In continuation from the previous article, this time we’ll focus on practical strategies for raising your score in the OET Speaking sub-test under the Clinical Communication Criteria. Clinical Communication Criteria (Basic Strategies) Let’s begin with a quick review of the five assessment areas: Unlike clinical practice where accurate diagnosis is the ultimate goal, in the […]

UK NHS Doctor Roles and Responsibilities: A Complete Guide for IMGs

UK NHS Doctor Roles and Responsibilities: A Complete Guide for IMGs

Medical titles in the UK differ from those in many other countries. For IMGs, considering working in the NHS (National Health Service), it is helpful to understand the job titles and responsibilities, as this will give a clearer picture of potential career paths. When relocating, it is wise to think about which role you may […]

Is the OET Speaking Test Getting Harder in 2025?

Is OET Speaking getting harder in 2025

“This candidate seems fine for Speaking…” Since around January 2025, it has felt like even candidates who gave the impression of being “okay in Speaking” are not achieving the same success rates as before. Some unofficial sources mention that after January 29, 2025, an “Overall Score” was introduced. However, since this has not been officially […]

How to Prepare for OET: Section-by-Section Study Guide for Grade B (350+)

How to Prepare for OET: Section-by-Section Study Guide for Grade B (350+)

For many IMGs, the Occupational English Test (OET) is one of the biggest hurdles to working overseas. Reaching 350+ (Grade B) is the target set by most healthcare regulators, but getting there can feel overwhelming without a clear plan. The good news is that OET is highly predictable once you know how each section works. […]

How to Work as a Doctor in the UAE (Dubai & Abu Dhabi): Eligibility & Step-by-Step Guide

UAE Doctor Licensing: Requirements and Steps to Work in Dubai or Abu Dhabi

“Can I really work as a doctor in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?” If you’ve ever thought about working abroad as a doctor, this question may have crossed your mind. In this article, we’ll walk through the conditions and specific steps required to practice medicine in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. ※This article is written by OET […]

ECFMG Certification Deadlines Explained | The 7-Year Rule vs. Pathway Expiration

Understanding the 7-Year Rule and Pathway Deadlines

To work as a physician in the United States, international medical graduates (IMGs) must obtain ECFMG certification. Achieving and maintaining this certification involves two often-overlooked deadlines. The first is the “7-Year Rule,” and the second is the “Pathway Expiration Date.” Missing either deadline means you will need to retake or reapply. This article explains the […]

OET Grade B vs IELTS 7.0: Which Is Easier for International Medical Graduates?

OET Grade B vs IELTS 7.0: Which Is Easier for IMGs

OET and IELTS are two of the most common English tests required for healthcare professionals looking to work abroad or convert their medical licenses obtained overseas. When given the choice, many IMGs wonder: “Which is easier—OET Grade B (350–440) or IELTS 7.0?” The conclusion, in general, is that OET 350 is slightly easier to achieve […]