Many healthcare professionals preparing for the Occupational English Test (OET) often wonder whether there is a particular month or season when the exam becomes easier and when test-takers tend to score higher. This belief arises from observations that certain test dates appear to produce more successful candidates, leading to the question: Is there truly a “right time” to take the OET?
In reality, the OET does not have an officially easier or harder month, since it is designed to maintain consistent difficulty throughout the year. The test is carefully standardised across all sittings, ensuring fairness and reliability regardless of when it is taken. Each paper undergoes a rigorous process of trialing, moderation, and benchmarking to ensure that all versions assess the same language skills at the same level of difficulty (OET Centre, 2023, website).
However, there are practical and psychological factors that may make some months feel more favourable than others for candidates. These factors can indirectly influence performance and overall scores.
Seasonal Patterns in Candidate Preparation
One of the main reasons some people perform better at certain times of the year is due to preparation patterns. For instance, many healthcare professionals plan their OET attempts around academic or professional schedules. During quieter work periods—such as post-holiday months or between hospital rotations—candidates have more time to prepare thoroughly. This better preparation naturally leads to higher scores.
For example, candidates in many countries find January to March and August to October particularly productive periods because these months often come after holidays or breaks, providing uninterrupted study time. By contrast, test-takers attempting the exam during busy hospital periods may struggle with time management and concentration, which can affect their results (British Council, 2022, article).
The Psychological Effect of “Exam Myths”
A recurring myth among candidates is that OET exams are “easier” during certain months when more people appear for them. This belief likely arises from social comparison and selective perception. When a large number of people pass in a given month, word spreads quickly through study groups and online forums, giving the impression that the test itself was easier.
However, linguistic research shows no evidence that OET or any other standardised test adjusts its difficulty based on time or the number of candidates (Weir, 2013, book). What may actually be happening is that test-takers are better prepared during these peak times, often following intensive preparation programs that begin months earlier. Thus, the higher success rate reflects improved readiness, not an easier test.
Consistency in OET Scoring and Test Design
OET test designers apply strict equating and scaling procedures to ensure each version of the exam measures the same level of English proficiency. This process means that even if some test items seem slightly harder or easier, the overall grading scale remains fair and consistent across all sittings (Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment, 2021, website).
This means that a score of 350 in February represents the same level of English competence as a 350 in November. Any perceived seasonal variation in results is therefore a reflection of candidate preparation rather than exam design.
External Factors Influencing Performance
While the OET itself remains consistent, external factors such as weather, workload, and stress can affect individual performance. For instance, in regions experiencing extreme weather conditions—very hot summers or monsoon seasons—candidates may feel physically uncomfortable or mentally distracted, influencing focus and energy levels during the exam. Similarly, festive seasons or personal commitments may cause anxiety or reduced study time.
Thus, choosing a test month when you feel most stable and well-prepared—physically, mentally, and professionally—is often more beneficial than trying to identify an “easy” month.
The Real Secret: Strategic Preparation and Timing
The real “secret” behind higher OET scores lies not in the timing of the exam, but in strategic preparation and personal readiness. Test-takers who:
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Begin preparing at least two to three months in advance,
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Focus on practising with authentic OET materials,
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Receive feedback from qualified OET trainers, and
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Simulate exam conditions regularly
tend to perform significantly better, regardless of the month they take the test (OET Preparation Portal, 2024, website).
Additionally, being emotionally prepared—calm, confident, and rested—can have a powerful impact on test-day performance. Candidates who feel pressured to meet registration or immigration deadlines may not perform at their best, even if the test content is well within their ability.
Evidence from Past Trends
Some informal data from OET coaching centres suggest that certain test sessions show higher pass rates. However, these trends usually correspond with collective preparation cycles—for instance, when large groups of candidates complete an intensive OET course just before major exam dates.
A study by Green and Taylor (2020, journal article) on English proficiency tests found that candidate performance improves significantly when preparation aligns with structured programs lasting 8–12 weeks, regardless of the exam date. This supports the idea that preparation consistency, not exam timing, determines outcomes.
Conclusion
There is no scientifically proven month or season when the OET exam becomes easier. Every test is standardised to ensure fairness and reliability. The differences in candidate outcomes are largely influenced by personal preparation, timing, mental readiness, and environmental comfort.
Therefore, the best strategy is to select an exam date that fits your lifestyle and study progress, allowing adequate preparation without unnecessary stress. The “secret” to achieving a high score lies in commitment, focused practice, and self-awareness—not in the calendar month of the exam.
References
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British Council (2022). Language Testing and Seasonal Study Patterns. [Article].
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Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment (2021). OET Scoring Explained: Fairness and Reliability Across Test Versions. [Website].
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Green, D. & Taylor, H. (2020). Impact of Preparation Duration on Language Test Performance. Journal of Applied Linguistics, 34(2), 77–91. [Journal Article].
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OET Centre (2023). Understanding OET Test Design and Fairness. [Website].
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OET Preparation Portal (2024). Effective Study Strategies for OET Candidates. [Website].
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Weir, C. J. (2013). Language Testing and Validation: An Evidence-Based Approach. Palgrave Macmillan. [Book].