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OET

Occupational English Test

What is the OET?

OET is an English language test for healthcare professionals.

Doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals can take the OET.

OET is scored from A (highest) to E (lowest).

OET results are valid for two years.

There are four sub-tests: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

Yes, OET can be taken at home via OET@Home.

OET is conducted 14 times a year.

Results are released in about 16 business days.

Results are released in about 16 business days.

Nurses generally need a minimum grade of B in all sub-tests.

Yes, OET scores can be used for visa and immigration purposes in some countries.

The GMC and the Australian Medical Council require 350 in all sub-tests.

Yes, while the core structure remains consistent, certain parts of the test—such as the Writing and Speaking sub-tests—are specific to each profession.

OET provides various accommodations for candidates with special needs, including extra time, modified materials, and special arrangements for hearing and visual impairments.

For effective preparation for the OET exam, you can read our blog posts for more information or book a free consultation with our experts at Mafaza Academy.

IELTS

International English Language Testing System

What is the IELTS?

IELTS is an English language proficiency test for study, work, and migration.

 

IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training.

IELTS is scored on a band scale of 1 to 9.

IELTS results are valid for two years.

IELTS results are valid for two years.

Yes, IELTS can be taken online via IELTS Indicator.

You can take the test as many times as you want, with no restrictions.

Results are released in 13 days for paper-based tests and 3-5 days for computer-based tests.

It varies by institution, but typically a band score of 6.5 or higher is required.

No, IELTS provides a score on a scale, not a pass or fail result.

The UK and Australia typically require a minimum band score of 7.5 for healthcare registration, with no less than 7.0 in each testing area, while Canada often requires a band score of 6.5.

Choose Academic if you plan to study at a university or join a professional association where English is a communication medium. Opt for General Training if you aim to migrate to an English-speaking country for secondary education, work experience, or training programs.

Missing any section of the IELTS will significantly impact your overall score. Each section is designed to test different aspects of your language proficiency, and incomplete tests are usually not assessed.

To prepare thoroughly for the IELTS, consider exploring our detailed blog posts or booking a free consultation with our language experts at Mafaza Academy for personalized guidance.

PLAB1

Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board Part 1

What is PLAB 1?

PLAB 1 is a written exam for international medical graduates to practice medicine in the UK.

PLAB 1 consists of 180 multiple-choice questions.

The exam duration is three hours.

Clinical medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics, and psychiatry.

PLAB 1 is held four times a year.

It can be taken in the UK and various locations worldwide.

Register online through the GMC website.

The passing score varies but is typically around 120 out of 180.

PLAB 1 results are valid for two years.

Results are usually released within four weeks after the exam.

The GMC typically requires a minimum score of 120 out of 180 to pass PLAB 1 for medical registration in the UK

If you are not a resident of the UK, you will require a visa to take the PLAB exam there. It is generally recommended to apply for a Standard Visitor visa, which covers short stays for reasons including taking a professional exam.

For the PLAB 1 exam, focus on mastering broad medical knowledge covered in the exam syllabus. For more specific tips and strategies, you can read our blog posts or book a free consultation with our medical exam preparation experts at Mafaza Academy.

PLAB2

Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board Part 2

What is PLAB 2

PLAB 2 is a practical OSCE exam for international medical graduates.

The exam lasts about three hours.

There are 18 stations in PLAB 2.

Simulated clinical scenarios, including patient consultations and practical procedures.

It is conducted in Manchester, UK.

Through practical courses, study materials, and practice sessions.

PLAB 2 is held multiple times a year.

PLAB 2 results are valid for two years.

The pass rate varies but is generally around 65%.

Results are typically released within four weeks after the exam.

The GMC does not specify a numerical score for PLAB 2; candidates must demonstrate competence across all stations to pass for medical registration in the UK.

PLAB 2 is a practical, scenario-based exam. Focus on clinical examination skills, communication skills, and the ability to make quick clinical decisions. For detailed preparation tips, visit our blog or book a free consultation at Mafaza Academy to learn more about effective study strategies and mock exam opportunities.