Format and timing
How long do candidates have to think before speaking in Speaking part 1 and 4 of the standard OTE?
The test does not assign any thinking time for these two parts.
How many days in advance can you book the exam?
Usually 7 days’ notice is needed to ensure examiner availability.
What free resources does OUP offer to prepare for the OTE?
Demos, sample tests, answer keys, model responses, tips for Writing and Speaking.
What happens if you take the test on different days?
You can take modules on different dates; the certificate shows the date of each module.
What is a common mistake made when practicing for the Reading module?
Focusing on explicit meaning instead of implied meaning.
Can the modules be taken individually?
Yes, they can be taken separately or in any combination.
If a candidate improves a module when retaking, does it appear on the certificate?
Yes, only the best result for each module appears.
Why is CAT (adaptive testing) beneficial for candidates?
Because it adjusts difficulty, making the test shorter and more level-appropriate.
Can candidates use paper during the test?
No. The only tasks that allow note-taking are in the advanced version and are done in a pop-up window on the screen.
What is the most common mistake made by candidates in the Speaking module?
Answering using short sentences and simple language, often memorised in advance.
How long does the full standard OTE exam last?
About 2 hours.
How is the overall score on the certificate calculated?
As the average of the four modules (0–140 for Standard; 0–170 for Advanced).
What types of tasks does the Speaking module in the standard OTE include?
Interview, voicemail (simulated), a talk, and follow-up questions in 4 parts.
In the Reading module, can candidates return to previous questions, and how many times can candidates listen to each Listening extract?
The test does not allow returning to any previous questions. In the listening module, the audio is played twice.
What's a common mistake when answering Speaking part 2 - voicemail?
Not covering the three points presented in the question. Candidates lose marks for not fulfilling the task.
In which modules is the exam adaptive?
The Listening and Reading modules use adaptive technology (CAT); Speaking and Writing do not.
What process exists to review or appeal results?
A result review (re-evaluation of Speaking/Writing by a senior assessor), and an appeal after review, with refund if the level changes.
What types of tasks does the Speaking module in the Advanced OTE include?
Interview, voice message, oral summary, debate, and follow-up questions in 5 parts.
Are candidates required to bring anything into the test room?
Candidates are not allowed to bring anything into the test room other than their official identification, which is compulsory. Optional: a transparent water bottle without label.
What mistake do students make in the Writing Advanced Summary Task?
Copying sentences word-for-word instead of paraphrasing and integrating ideas.
When are the results available for each module?
Listening and Reading: immediately after the test; Speaking and Writing: within 5 working days to a maximum of 14.
What are the restrictions for retaking the OTE?
Individual modules can be retaken: max. 2 times in 8 weeks and up to 4 times per year.
What options are there in Writing in OTE Advanced?
Compulsory essay and a summary task using two sources (textbook + lecture transcript).
What score ranges correspond to each CEFR sublevel in OTE Standard?
A2: 51-80
B1: 81-110
B2: 111-140
C1: 141-170
Why do some candidates fail to reach B2 even though they actually have the level?
Poor time management and lack of practice with timed tasks. This leads them to select random answers in the reading or not listening carefully to the audios.