OET Scoring Guide
OET Score Calculator: From Score to Grade
OET reports a numerical score from 0 to 500 for each sub-test, plus a letter grade from A to E. This guide shows exactly how those convert, what grade you need for registration, and how to estimate the score your writing is currently on.
In short
- Each sub-test is scored 0–500 and graded A–E separately — there is no overall OET score.
- 350 = Grade B in every sub-test is what most regulators require for registration.
- A strong sub-test can't carry a weak one — Writing is the most-failed, so estimate it early.
0–500
graded A–E
Score range per sub-test
350
in every sub-test
Grade B (registration target)
4
no overall band
Sub-tests, scored separately
OET score-to-grade conversion table
The official numerical bands, what each grade means in practice, and the rough IELTS equivalent (approximate — regulators set their own rules).
| Score (per sub-test) | Grade | What it means | Approx IELTS |
|---|---|---|---|
| 450–500 | A | Very high proficiency — well above what any regulator asks | ≈ 8.0+ |
| 350–440 | B | The standard most regulators require (NMC, GMC, HCPC, AHPRA…) | ≈ 7.0–7.5 |
| 300–340 | C+ | Accepted by some regulators in 1–2 sub-tests when combining sittings | ≈ 6.5 |
| 200–290 | C | Below most healthcare requirements | ≈ 5.5–6.0 |
| 100–190 | D | Well below requirements | — |
| 0–90 | E | Lowest band | — |
Example: a Writing score of 360 is a Grade B. IELTS equivalents are indicative only — always check your regulator's exact requirement on the requirements hub.
How OET scoring actually works
Each sub-test is marked independently and converted to a score out of 500, then to a grade. Crucially, there is no averaging — OET does not combine your four scores into one number. That is why a candidate can score Grade A in Listening and still need to re-sit Writing: every sub-test must reach the required grade on its own.
For Writing specifically, your 0–500 score comes from six assessment criteria applied by two trained assessors. Understanding those criteria is the fastest way to predict — and lift — your score; see the six OET writing criteria and what separates a Grade C from a Grade B.
Estimate your writing score now
Our free Score Estimator predicts the band your latest practice letter is on, built by Dr Mariam (PhD, 11,000+ letters marked). It is an independent estimator, not affiliated with CBLA.
Open the free Score EstimatorFrequently Asked Questions
How is the OET scored?
What OET score do I need?
Is there an overall OET score?
How do I convert my OET score to a grade?
What is a good OET score?
Related OET Writing guides
Continue your preparation with these related resources.
OET Scoring Criteria →
How the 6 criteria are assessed and where most candidates lose marks.
Grade B Sample Letters →
20 worked sample letters by profession × scenario with line-by-line annotations.
Mistake Clinics by Profession →
10 profession-specific mistake clinics — wrong vs right examples per criterion.
Grade A vs B vs C Compared →
Three letters from the same case notes at three bands — what moves you up one.
OET Writing Correction
Know your real writing score — before exam day
An estimate is a starting point; a human correction tells you exactly which of the 6 criteria are keeping you below 350. Dr Mariam's team marks every letter and shows you the gap to Grade B.
5-Letter Pack — From $35