IELTS Speaking Test Overview & Format

This part focuses on general topics related to your life and experiences.

• The examiner will introduce themselves and check your identity.
• They will then ask you general questions on familiar topics such as:
  • Home and family
  • Work or study
  • Hobbies and interests
  • Daily routines
  • Likes and dislikes
  • Future plans
• The aim is to help you relax and start talking naturally about everyday subjects.

In this part, you need to speak about a specific topic for an extended period.

• The examiner gives you a task card (cue card) with a topic and some points you should cover in your talk.
• You have **1 minute** to prepare your talk. You will be given a pencil and paper to make notes.
• You then need to speak about the topic for **1 to 2 minutes**. Do not stop until the examiner asks you to.
• The examiner may ask one or two brief follow-up questions at the end of your talk.
• Topics often involve describing a person, place, object, event, or experience.

This part involves a more abstract discussion related to the topic presented in Part 2.

• The examiner will ask further questions connected to the Part 2 topic, exploring the issues in more depth.
• These questions require you to discuss more abstract ideas, opinions, and issues.
• You may be asked to compare, contrast, speculate, give opinions, explain, or justify your views.
• This part assesses your ability to express and justify opinions and to analyse, discuss, and speculate about issues.