IELTS Speaking: Work & Study Questions & Answers (2026)
Master IELTS Speaking work and study questions. Part 1 answers about your job or studies, plus Part 2 cue cards and Part 3 discussion topics with model responses.
Part 1 Questions: Work Study
These questions are asked at the start of the speaking test. Keep your answers to 2-3 sentences.
- Do you work or study?
- What do you do for work?
- What do you like about your job/studies?
- Is there anything you would like to change about your work/studies?
- What subject are you studying?
- Why did you choose this field?
Part 2 Cue Card
Describe a job you would like to do in the future. You should say: what the job is, what qualifications you would need, why you are interested in it, and explain how this job would benefit you.
Model Answer (Band 7+)
A job I would really like to do in the future is to become a user experience designer, or UX designer as it is commonly known. This is someone who designs digital products like apps and websites to make them intuitive and enjoyable to use.
To become a UX designer, you typically need a combination of skills rather than one specific qualification. A degree in design, psychology, or computer science provides a good foundation, but many successful UX designers have come from completely unrelated backgrounds. What is essential is a portfolio demonstrating your design thinking process, which you can build through bootcamps, online courses, or self-directed projects.
I am drawn to this career because it sits at the intersection of creativity and problem-solving, which are two things I am passionate about. I find it fascinating that small design decisions can dramatically affect how millions of people interact with technology. For instance, the placement of a single button can determine whether someone completes a purchase or abandons their shopping cart.
This job would benefit me in several ways. Firstly, UX design is a rapidly growing field with strong salary prospects and the flexibility to work remotely. More importantly, it would allow me to combine analytical thinking with creative expression, which I find deeply satisfying. There is also a meaningful aspect to the work, as good UX design can make technology more accessible to elderly users, people with disabilities, and those with limited digital literacy.
Part 3 Discussion Questions
These are more abstract questions that require deeper analysis. Aim for 3-5 sentences per answer.
- How has technology changed the way people work?
- Do you think working from home is better than working in an office?
- What skills will be most important in the future job market?
- Should universities focus more on practical skills or theoretical knowledge?