The Speaking part of an IELTS test takes a slightly different format to the other three sections. It is the only section that is completed face-to-face with an examiner, rather than on paper (or on a computer).
If you need to get prepared for the Speaking part of the test, we have everything you need to get ready. From information on what to expect on the day, to top study tips and how to access useful and free practice materials.
IELTS Speaking is one of four parts of your IELTS test, the others being Reading, Writing and Listening. The Speaking test takes place in a separate, private room with just you and the examiner. It assesses a wide range of skills, including your ability to:
The IELTS Speaking section lasts 11-14 minutes in total and it aims to be like real-life conversations as closely as possible. There are three sections to your Speaking test which include:
IELTS Speaking Part 1:
This involves answering questions about yourself and your family. The examiner will lead the discussion with some questions. This part will last around 4 to 5 minutes.
Learn moreIELTS Speaking Part 2:
Speaking about a topic chosen by the examiner, you’ll have approximately 1 minute to prepare once you’ve been given your topic. You will then be asked to talk about it for a further 2 minutes.
Learn moreIELTS Speaking Part 3:
A longer, more in-depth discussion about the topic presented in Part 2. This is a two-way discussion with the examiner and lasts for around 4 to 5 minutes.
Learn moreWe recommend finding a study partner to practice your speaking with. This will help to replicate the exam scenario as closely as possible and give you valuable practice for test day. Once you’ve found someone to practise with, we recommend you use the free practice materials online provided by British Council. We have lots of past tests you can use to help you prepare for your IELTS Speaking exam.
*Top Tip: Practise the 3 parts of the Speaking test one straight after the other, just as you would do in your exam. This will help to replicate the exam experience as closely as possible and ensure you’re prepared for test day.
Practice all three sections of the IELTS Speaking test:
Practice IELTS Speaking test: Part 1
Practice IELTS Speaking test: Part 2
Practice IELTS Speaking test: Part 3
Completed round one of practice tests? Try again and compare your results.
Practice IELTS Speaking test: Part 1
Practice IELTS Speaking test: Part 2
Practice IELTS Speaking test: Part 3
How much time do I need to put into preparation?
The more prepared you feel, the more likely you are to succeed on the day.
It’s hard to say exactly how much time you’ll need to prepare, as this will differ based on how quickly you learn and how confident you are at speaking in English. We would recommend as much practice as possible, as this will get you used to speaking about a wide range of different topics and ensure you are familiar with the test format on the day (so there will be no surprises!).
Top tips for doing well in your IELTS Speaking test
Your speaking test will be face-to-face with an examiner and will aim to mimic a real-life conversation. Try to relax and speak naturally. Before your test, it can help to practice your verbal skills with a friend or teacher.
The first part of the Speaking test will include topics such as your studies, work, or home life. This should help you to settle into the conversation by talking about topics that you are familiar with.
We highly recommend practising your verbal skills with a friend or teacher.
IETLS Speaking test step by step tips:
Following this step-by-step guide to tackling the IELTS speaking questions part 1, 2 & 3 can be immensely beneficial for test takers. These sections require a combination of fluency, coherence and varied vocabulary, here are our tips:
Now that you have all the preparation tips you need, if you’ve still not booked your IELTS test, you can do so online today. We have over 80 test centres located across Canada, so you’re sure to find one near you.
Test & practice tips for IELTS Reading
Learn moreTest & practice tips for IELTS Listening
Learn moreTest & practice tips for IELTS Writing
Learn moreFrequently Asked Questions
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