OECT Test Schedule

A person writing on a chalkboard in a classroom.

Schedule an OECT slot

The Oral English Certification Test (OECT) has a two-step process. First, complete a registration through the OECT Portal. Then, select a preferred test slot after receiving notifications when test slots are open. Students are strongly advised to complete the registration as early as possible. Completing a registration means that we can give you updates when test dates are open for selection.

  • First-time test takers must provide their TOEFL/IELTS/PTE scores unless they are exempt from the English proficiency requirement. Those retaking the test may choose the "exempt" option.
Go to the OECT Portal

Registration Date

In-Person Test Date

Location (Check-in)

Notes
The next OECT will be in May 2024. Email Dr. Lily Compton at lcompton@iastate.edu if you want to register. May 2024 (TBD) TBD

To receive notifications about test selection, students must register for the OECT.

A late registration will lead to missed emails regarding test slot availability.

 

The test cycles are reserved for the following groups.

  • January and August - Incoming and new International Teaching Assistants (ITAs)
  • July - Preparing Future Faculty (PFF) applicants and other ITAs who want to retest
  • May and December - ITAs enrolled in GR ST 540 courses and PFF applicants

Note: Starting Fall 2023, Engl 180 will be called GR ST 540.

A valid NetID (ISU email address before "@iastate.edu") and correct student ID number (on the student's ISU ID card) are required for test registration for all test takers. Students should confirm their information in order to proceed to the registration part. Submit only one registration per testing period.

First-time test takers must provide their TOEFL/IELTS/PTE scores unless they are exempt from the English proficiency requirement.

  1. Complete a registration early. Once you have completed a registration, you will receive future notifications when test slots are open.
  2. Once you receive the email about new test slots, go to the OECT portal to select your preferred test slot.
  3. After you have selected your test slot, check your dashboard to see that your slot has been confirmed.
  4. You will receive further information a few days before your test.

Read the OECT Test Guide for Students.

On the test date

Test takers must arrive at the check-in location one hour before their scheduled test time. For example, if the test appointment is at 10:40 a.m., the student is required to check in at 9:40 a.m. to prepare for the TEACH part of OECT. Test takers must also bring the following documents to the test:

  1. University ID card (or another photo ID such as driver's license or passport)
  2. Their most recent official TOEFL or IELTS score report and a photocopy of it (first-time test takers only). If students do not have an official TOEFL record available, they may present a printout of their TOEFL scores reported on the ETS website at their check-in. Students who have earned a bachelor's or higher degree in the U.S. and thus do not have a TOEFL/IETLS record to bring in should present proof of their degree by email (lcompton@iastate.edu) or at the check-in on the test date. Proof of degree may include a copy of the diploma or a transcript with the earned degree and the student's name listed.