Aspiring to fly abroad to your favourite country? Ready to take up IELTS or OET? Candidates usually get confused between the IELTS and the OET exam. General questions that candidates come up with are which English test is easier and the validity of the tests. However, in 2020 both these tests are still conducted amidst the coronavirus outbreak. This blog will give you an idea between OET and IELTS tests and their purpose. Also, we help you decide which test is better for you in 2020.
We already know that IELTS and OET are required English language exams that validate our language proficiency to work, study or migrate abroad. Whether you are planning to migrate to countries like Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK or the USA, you will have to qualify any of these language assessment tests. However, all these exams focus and test the four basic English language skills – listening, reading, speaking, and writing.
IELTS is The International English Language Testing System that evaluates the language proficiency of candidates where English is the language of communication. OET, on the other hand, is the Occupational English Test which is the language assessment test for healthcare professionals. Are you confused about which exam is best for you? Read below and check out the factors to take into account before you choose a test in 2020.
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IELTS or OET
Before we understand the prominence of these tests in 2020, let’s get to understand the difference between these tests. While IELTS is a general exam opted by candidates to study or work abroad, OET is designed for healthcare professionals including Pharmacy, Dentistry, Nursing, Radiography etc. Both the tests assess the four language components. If you wish to pursue a job in the healthcare sector, OET Training in Abu Dhabi can help you reach your goals.
Which test is easier?
The IELTS exam covers a general syllabus while the OET covers the syllabus for healthcare professionals. Usually, people find OET simpler to understand as it includes healthcare-oriented vocabulary and tests the language you use in the health sector. However, the OET system cares less about grammar whereas in IELTS you have to be more accurate with your grammar in both the writing and the speaking.
Which test is affordable?
As we know IELTS is much cheaper than OET. IELTS is available in many locations and more test dates are available than OET. If you wish to take up the IELTS exam, IELTS Training in Abu Dhabi is one good choice. Also, to prepare for an IELTS exam, you can easily access many resources whereas OET has limited resources. If you need to retake an OET exam, the price can seriously add up.
IELTS or OET in 2020?
2020 has been hard-hitting on our personal and professional lives. In spite of facing the difficulties arisen due to coronavirus outbreak, there are still IELTS and OET exams being conducted. Planning to take the IELTS or OET exam in 2020 is a good option as you might have more free time to prepare, you might face less competition and access more resources safely. What features have these tests brought in 2020?
- IELTS Indicator
IELTS has recently established an IELTS Indicator, which aims to support students who wish to migrate abroad but are impacted by Covid-19 restrictions. IELTS Indicator assesses your English language skills in Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. This test can be taken online. This is a new step in 2020 that focuses on real-life conversation skills. The format of the test is exactly that of the regular IELTS test.
- SDTP for OET Safety Measures
OET has taken stringent safety protocols for conducting tests during the COVID-19 pandemic. Social Distanced Testing Protocols (SDTP) are helping OET Tests to be safe testing locations, providing the utmost care for candidates and staff of centres. Apart from that, the US has recently recognised OET officially, which is a dream come true opportunity for many students. After all, as dedicated healthcare workers, this is a time where your contribution can make changes in the world.
Which is a better test in 2020?
Which exam is better among IELTS and OET comes down to your personal circumstances. OET is clearly better for you if you plan to migrate to work in the healthcare sector. You might find IELTS better if you are unsure about the course or work you wish to pursue abroad because it’s a general test which is cheaper.
Overall you need to check with all the factors and pick the exam that suits your goals. However, both the tests provide safe and sound approaches even during COVID19 outbreak.