OET Reading lasts 60 minutes and has 42 questions across three parts: Part A (15 minutes, 20 questions, scanning four short texts), Part B (six short workplace extracts) and Part C (two longer texts). To reach the Grade B (350) that most nursing regulators require, you need speed in Part A, careful reading of purpose and tone in Part B, and an understanding of the writer’s argument in Part C.
OET Reading format at a glance
| Part | Time | Texts | Questions | Skill tested |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | 15 minutes | 4 short texts on one healthcare topic | 20 (matching, sentence completion, short answer) | Fast scanning for specific information |
| B | 45 minutes (B and C together) | 6 short workplace extracts (policies, emails, guidelines) | 6 multiple-choice | Gist, main point, purpose |
| C | 2 longer texts on healthcare topics | 16 multiple-choice (8 per text) | Detailed understanding, opinion and inference |
The Part A booklet is collected after exactly 15 minutes. Unanswered Part A questions cannot be completed later.
Part A strategy
- Don’t read the texts first. Skim the four texts’ titles and layout (table, list, paragraphs) in 30 seconds so you know where each type of information lives.
- Read each question, then scan for keywords, numbers, drug names and units.
- Spelling counts. Copy words exactly from the text. Wrong spelling is marked wrong.
- Don’t change the form of words unless the sentence needs it, and stay within the word limit.
- Keep moving: about 45 seconds per question. If stuck, guess and move on.
Part B strategy
- Read the question first: is it asking for the purpose of the text, the main point, or what staff must do?
- Look for words like “must”, “should”, “only if”, “unless”, “however”, which change meaning.
- Eliminate options that are true but not the main point.
- Spend about 2 minutes per extract.
Part C strategy
- Read the first paragraph carefully to understand the topic and the writer’s position.
- Questions follow the order of the text; use paragraph numbers to locate answers.
- Watch for paraphrasing: the correct option rarely uses the same words as the text.
- For “the writer suggests” or “the expert implies” questions, look for opinion words and contrast markers.
- Questions on reference (“what does ‘this’ refer to?”) need you to read the previous sentence.
- Spend about 18 to 20 minutes per text.
Common traps
- Options that repeat words from the text but change the meaning
- Options that are true in general nursing knowledge but not stated in the text
- Extreme words (“always”, “never”, “all”) that the text doesn’t support
- Running out of time in Part C because of overthinking Part B
A 4-week practice plan
- Week 1: learn the format; do two Part A tests under timed conditions every day.
- Week 2: focus on Part B; read healthcare policies and guidelines daily.
- Week 3: focus on Part C; read health articles and summarise the writer’s view in one sentence.
- Week 4: full timed tests; review every wrong answer and note why it was wrong.
Frequently asked questions
How many marks do I need for Grade B in OET Reading?
OET reports scores on a scale from 0 to 500; Grade B is 350. The exact number of correct answers needed can vary between test versions.
Is OET Reading harder than IELTS Reading?
Many nurses find it easier because the content is healthcare-based, but Part A’s time pressure is challenging.
Can I use a pen in OET Reading?
For paper-based tests, follow the test day instructions. On computer and at-home tests, you type your answers.
Related reading: OET writing sample referral letter · OET speaking role-play sample · IELTS vs OET for nurses
Check the latest test format and rules on the official OET website before your exam.