How Long Is the OET? Duration of Each Sub-Test and the Whole Exam

The full OET takes a little over three hours of testing. Timings below are the standard format; check the official guide for your test type.

Sub-test	Approx. time	What you do
Listening	About 45 minutes	42 questions across Parts A, B and C; audio is played once
Reading	60 minutes	Part A (15 minutes), then Parts B and C (45 minutes); 42 questions in total
Writing	45 minutes	5 minutes reading time plus 40 minutes to write a letter from case notes
Speaking	About 20 minutes	Two role-plays with preparation time before each

Test-Day Planning

• Listening, Reading and Writing are normally taken in one session; Speaking may be on the same day or a different one, depending on the test type and centre.
• Reading Part A is timed separately: its papers are collected after 15 minutes, so do not leave it unfinished while chasing Parts B and C.
• Practise under the real clock. Most candidates lose marks to time, not to knowledge.

Practising With Real Timings

The HighYield OET practice section times each skill so you can rehearse pacing. For Reading pacing specifically, see the Parts A, B and C strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours is the OET exam?

Listening, Reading and Writing add up to roughly two and a half hours, and Speaking adds about twenty minutes.

Can I take Speaking on a different day?

Often yes, depending on the test type and venue. Your booking confirmation shows the schedule.

How many questions are in OET Listening?

42 questions across three parts.

OET is run by Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment. Format, fees and recognition rules change, so confirm every detail on the official OET website and with the regulator you are applying to. HighYield is an independent practice provider and is not affiliated with OET.

Practise for the OET

HighYield OET practice has listening, reading, writing and speaking practice for doctors, with a free listening sample to try first. Related guides: OET for doctors: complete guide, how to prepare and 8-week study plan.