IELTS Speaking
Speaking is a face-to-face conversation with a certified examiner — 11 to 14 minutes, in three parts. It is the same for Academic and General Training.
Even with computer-delivered IELTS, Speaking is always a real conversation with a trained examiner, not a recording. It may be on the same day as your other skills or on a nearby day, and it is recorded for quality and remarking.
The test has three parts and lasts 11 to 14 minutes.
The three parts
- Part 1 — Introduction and interview (4 to 5 minutes): familiar topics such as home, work, studies and interests.
- Part 2 — Long turn (3 to 4 minutes): you get a cue card, one minute to prepare, then speak for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Part 3 — Discussion (4 to 5 minutes): a two-way discussion of more abstract ideas linked to the Part 2 topic.
The four marking criteria
The examiner scores you on these four, equally weighted:
- Fluency and Coherence: speaking at length, logically and without undue hesitation.
- Lexical Resource: the range and precision of your vocabulary.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: the range and correctness of your grammar.
- Pronunciation: how clear and natural your speech is (accent is fine, clarity matters).
Cue-card example: "Describe a place you like to visit. Say where it is, how often you go, what you do there, and why you enjoy it." Use the one-minute prep to jot keywords, not full sentences.
How Speaking is scored
The examiner gives a band from 0 to 9 on each of the four criteria, and these are averaged to your Speaking band. There are no "right answers" — you are assessed on how well you communicate, not on your opinions.
Tips to raise your band
- Extend your answers — give reasons and examples rather than one-word replies.
- It is fine to ask the examiner to repeat a question.
- Use the Part 2 preparation minute to plan with keywords.
- Speak clearly at a natural pace; do not memorise scripted answers.
- Show a range of tenses and linking words, but stay accurate and natural.
Speaking FAQs
Is Speaking face-to-face or on a computer?
Face-to-face with a certified examiner, even for computer-delivered IELTS. It is a real conversation.
Is Speaking on the same day as the other parts?
It may be on the same day or a nearby day. Your test centre confirms the exact time when you book.