Common OET Mistakes: Why Candidates Score Below Grade B and How to Fix Them

The most common OET mistakes in Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking, and a simple fix for each, so you can reach Grade B or higher.

Most candidates who score below their target do not lack English. They lose marks for avoidable habits. Here are the most common OET mistakes by sub-test, with a fix for each. Grade B is a score of 350 to 440; see what OET Grade B means.

Listening

Poor spelling in Part A. Fix: practise spelling common medical and everyday words; wrong spelling can lose the mark.
Not reading the gaps before the audio. Fix: use the pause to predict the type of word needed.
Missing a distractor. Speakers often correct themselves. Fix: wait for the final answer.

Reading

Running out of time in Part A. It lasts 15 minutes. Fix: skim and scan; do not read every word.
Reading Part C too slowly. Fix: practise long texts daily and read the question first.
Choosing an option that is true but does not answer the question. Fix: match the exact wording of the question.

Writing

Copying all the case notes. Fix: decide the purpose, then include only relevant information.
Unclear opening. Fix: state the reason for writing in the first sentence.
Informal language or abbreviations. Fix: use formal, clear sentences.
Not finishing. Fix: practise 40-minute timed letters.

Speaking

Interviewing without listening. Fix: respond to what the patient says and ask about their worries.
Using jargon. Fix: explain in plain language and check understanding.
Weak structure. Fix: use opening, information gathering, explanation, advice and closing.
Rushing. Fix: pause and speak at a steady pace.

Preparation Mistakes

Only studying vocabulary and not practising the tasks.
Not practising under real timing.
Not reviewing mistakes.
Booking the test before checking the regulator's required score.

Read the OET preparation guide for a full plan, and how to practise each sub-test.

Practise With Real-Format Tests

OET Practice on HighYield has full-length Listening and Reading tests in the real format, Writing letters with model answers and Speaking role-plays. Try the free Listening test to see how it works.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do many candidates fail to reach Grade B?

Common reasons are poor time use, weak Writing selection, unclear Speaking structure and not reviewing mistakes.

Which OET sub-test is hardest?

It varies. Many candidates find Writing or Speaking harder because they need feedback to improve.

Can I retake just one OET sub-test?

Rules about retaking and combining results vary and change. Check the official OET website and your regulator.

How can I stop making the same mistakes?

Keep an error log. Write the cause of every wrong answer and review it weekly.