Self-Studying vs. Taking OET Classes: Which is Better?

How you spend your preparation period has a huge impact on your OET results. So, if you want to get a grade of B and above, you must make the most out of your review period. 

There are two ways to prepare for the exam: by self-studying or by enrolling in OET classes. It is vital that the review approach you take is tailored to your needs as an OET test taker. Read on to find out their advantages and disadvantages to help you decide which study approach is best for you. 

Self-Studying

PRO: You have full control over your OET review. 

You can review whenever, wherever, and whatever you want. You don’t have to confine your OET studies in scheduled training sessions. If you are working, you can study during your free periods or after your shifts. If you do not like traveling to and fro a review center, you can study at home or at a nearby coffee shop or wherever else is convenient for you.

PRO: You get to challenge your independence and thinking skills more. 

This is not to say that enrolling in an OET course curbs your independence and thinking skills. Attending OET classes also lets you practice these things, only not as much as when you self-study. Among other things, self-studying gives you the freedom (and the challenge)

CON: There is a chance that the things you study may not appear in the exam.

While you have full control over your study schedule and activities, there is no guarantee that topics you choose or the activities you accomplish are directly relevant to the OET exam. Sure, you can check the test’s official website to learn about the test’s sub-tests and get useful tips, but is still not the same as enrolling in a review course for OET. Your OET review materials are limited to whatever you find online. 

CON: No one supervises your OET review. 

It is difficult to stay objective when it comes to gauging your communicative abilities, especially your writing and speaking skills. You will have to identify, examine, and correct all the linguistic lapses you commit, which is challenging since you are assessing your own work. 

Taking OET Classes

PRO: You learn from OET instructors. 

OET teachers know the exam inside out. They provide comprehensive lectures about the test’s contents and coverage, assess their student’s performance, and conduct one-on-one coaching sessions. 

PRO: You get to use quality and up-to-date training materials. 

You can rest assured that all the materials you use in your OET classes—from the lesson modules to the practice exams—are all up-to-date with the latest OET trends and developments. 

CON: You have to follow a set schedule. 

Unlike in self-studying where you can review anytime you want, you have to follow an established schedule of your OET course. If you are currently employed, attending OET classes can be a tricky task. 

CON: It requires money. 

Not just to secure an OET training program, but also to commute to and fro the review center.

Consider your budget, availability, and learning style to find out which review approach you should take. Before you settle on one approach, keep in mind that you are preparing for an exam than can launch your healthcare career abroad. If you want a budget-friendly and flexi-schedule method, choose self-studying. But, if you want to guarantee test success, enroll in OET classes today!