2.1. The Speaking Test at a Glance
Get the shape of the Speaking test and know what the examiner can and cannot do.
The short version
11 to 14 minutes, in total.
You talk with one examiner, face to face.
3 parts, always in the same order.
Academic and General Training sit the same test.
A short recorded interview
You talk with one examiner for 11 to 14 minutes. The test is recorded, so the marking can be checked. Some centres run it by video call, with a live examiner.
Academic and General Training candidates sit the same Speaking test, in the same order.
The introduction does not count
The test opens with the examiner checking your ID and confirming your name for the recording. That opening is scripted, so it gives the examiner almost nothing to rate.
What the examiner will and will not do
The examiner is keeping the whole test inside 14 minutes. Knowing what the examiner can help with, and when, stops a normal moment, such as being stopped mid-sentence, feeling like a disaster.
Side by side
The examiner keeps to the clock and stops everyone who is still talking. It is not a penalty.
Part 1: they can repeat, but not explain. Part 2: no help at all. Part 3: they may repeat, rephrase, or explain a word.
Quiz time3 questions
Three quick questions on the shape of the test.
The clock
Choose the length of the test.
How long is the Speaking test?
Being stopped
Choose the correct answer.
The examiner stops your talk at two minutes. What does that mean?
Asking for help
Choose the part where you get no help at all.
In which part can the examiner not help you?
Recap
A recorded interview of 11 to 14 minutes with one examiner.
Three parts, always in the same order.
Being stopped is normal, and there is no score for each part.
Next: what each of the three parts actually asks you to do.