How to Pass OET in One Month: A Realistic Plan for Doctors

One month is tight, and it suits you only if your English is already near Grade B. If you are scoring far below, the longer plan in our 8-week study plan is safer. For a strong candidate, this is how to use four weeks.

Before Week 1: Take a Baseline

Take one full-length test in each skill, under time. This tells you where the gap is. Spend your time on the sub-test with the lowest score, not the one you enjoy.

Week 1: Learn the Formats

• Learn the exact structure and timing of each sub-test.
• Read two model letters and note what each paragraph does.
• Do one Listening and one Reading test, and review every error.

Week 2: Writing and Speaking Foundations

• Write one letter every other day from case notes, selecting only relevant information.
• Practise role-plays aloud, covering the card points in order.

Week 3: Timed Practice

• Alternate full Listening and Reading tests under real timing.
• Get a second reader for your letters, or compare each with a model.

Week 4: Polish and Rest

• Repeat the weakest skill, and stop new material three days before the test.
• Check your test centre, ID and timings.

Where Candidates Lose Marks

Writing is the most common problem: too much irrelevant detail, an unclear purpose, or poor paragraphing. See common OET mistakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is one month enough for OET?

For some candidates already close to Grade B, yes. For others, eight weeks or more is more realistic.

How many hours a day should I study?

Two to three focused hours with daily practice beat a few long days.

What if my Writing is weak?

Give it the most time: write regularly and compare each letter with a model.

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.