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IELTS Speaking: Top FAQs

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IELTS Speaking: Top FAQs

Are you preparing for your IELTS Speaking test? We have gathered the most frequently asked questions and the corresponding answers from our IELTS Experts.

Find the answer with our IELTS Speaking FAQs

When do I book and sit for my Speaking test? Is it separate from the other sections?

If you are taking the computer-delivered test, speaking is done on the same day. You may nominate your preferred time which can either be before or after the other three modules.
As for the paper-based test, it can be on the same day or on either side of the test date. Your test centre will arrange a time for you.

How is the Speaking test structured? What happens when I first arrive in the room?

At first, the examiner reads out some information and checks your ID.
Part 1 includes questions about personal topics and lasts between 4 and 5 minutes.

Part 2 is a short talk. You will have 1 minute to prepare before speaking for up to 2 minutes. The examiner will then ask one or two questions on the same topic to finish this part of the test.

Part 3 is a discussion that is based on the topic of Part 2. This part of the test lasts between 4 and 5 minutes.

Is there a good way to know how long I have been Speaking in my IELTS Speaking test?

The examiner is the only one who can see the timer. One way to get a good idea is to do some speaking practice and have someone time you so you get used to the length of each part of the test.

What does it mean if an examiner interrupts me during my Speaking test?

If an examiner interrupts you in the IELTS Speaking test, it’s perfectly fine. The examiner has to stick to a very strict schedule. For example, in part 1 of the Speaking test, it’s strictly no more than five minutes. So perhaps, they just want to move on to the next stage.
Sometimes, if you’ve given a full response to a question, maybe they might want to move on and ask you something else to get some other ideas that you have.

Is it true that wearing a face mask may affect my IELTS Speaking score?

Wearing a mask should not affect your IELTS Speaking score. Just make sure that you can be heard clearly. If the examiner can’t hear you, they will ask you to repeat what you have said.

I’ve heard that IELTS Speaking is the most essential section of the test. Is this correct?

We can’t really say it’s ‘the most essential’ part of the test when it comprises 25% of your actual score. The other parts of the test, IELTS Reading, Listening and Writing, are worth 25% of your overall band score.

Can you explain the ‘Fluency and coherence’ criteria for IELTS Speaking?

There are a few things to look out for regarding fluency and coherence in the IELTS Speaking test. First of all, this is where you need to try and develop your ideas.
IELTS experts also look at your pausing and hesitation when you are searching for words. This is also the section where Experts look at connectors and cohesive devices as well.

How can mispronunciation or pausing during my speaking test impact my score?

In the IELTS Speaking test, mispronunciation and pausing are both essential areas. It’s important to try and use the sounds of English appropriately, but it’s okay to have an accent.
When it comes to pausing, it can affect your fluency and pronunciation in terms of your rhythm and intonation. Try to keep the pauses short and fill it in with good English like ” Hmm, that’s a really good question, let me think.” or “Interesting, I haven’t thought about that before.”

I’ve heard that if the topic given to me is unfamiliar in the Speaking test, I will not achieve a high score. Is this correct?

No. The IELTS Speaking test does not test your knowledge. If you are unfamiliar with the topic, you can still describe what you do know or why you are unfamiliar with it. You can also speculate – you won’t be judged on your facts and figures.

Is it okay to ask a Speaking examiner to repeat a question?

Some people are very worried about asking the examiner to repeat the question in the IELTS Speaking test. They are concerned that they might lose marks. But, in fact, it’s perfectly okay to ask for clarification on the question.
It doesn’t matter what part of Speaking it is – part 1, 2 or 3. If you need them to repeat it, please ask them.

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