Free practice test and question types

Question types in the IELTS Speaking test

Am I allowed to ask my Speaking examiner for an alternative topic?

No, but it is okay if you do not have any personal experience about the question. Just mention why you do not have this experience and speculate.

Can I ask the examiner to repeat a question if I don't understand it the first time?

Yes, you can ask the examiner to repeat the question in the IELTS Speaking test. You can also ask for clarification if you don't understand a word or what they are trying to ask.

Can I do all parts of the IELTS test on computer?

If you take an IELTS on Computer test, the Reading, Writing and Listening parts of the IELTS test are completed on a computer, but the Speaking test is completed face-to-face with an IELTS examiner.

Can I do all parts of the test on the same day?

The Listening, Reading, and Writing parts of the test are completed immediately after each other on the same day. In some test centres, you will sit the Speaking test on the same day, or up to 7 days before or after your test date.

If you take IELTS on computer, the Speaking test will be taken on the same day, either before, or after the other three parts of the test.

Can I make the examiner laugh in my Speaking test and get a higher mark?

Smiling can help you feel relaxed which in turn might help you perform better. However, if you smile or laugh too much, it might not be appropriate for the topic you are discussing. Every examiner is trained and monitored closely to be fair to every candidate and to assess your level of English. The examiners will not give you more or fewer marks if you are smiling and laughing. It is best to try and relax as much as you can and communicate in a natural way.

Does an examiner know which country I am from? Does the examiner mark me based on my accent?

In the IELTS Speaking test, the examiner knows where you are from because they ask for your passport. They may also ask you about where you are from, but it will not affect your score. Accent is not a problem unless you do not have some natural features of English, such as the sounds or rhythm.

Do I have to speak with a particular accent in my IELTS Speaking test?

Everyone speaks with an accent and you are not expected to change your accent for the IELTS test. Instead, focus on speaking clearly and at a natural pace so that the examiner can understand you. Practising your English every day and listening to different native speaker accents will help you to more clearly pronounce difficult words.

Do I have to use the full two minutes in IELTS Speaking, Part 2?

In Part 2 of the IELTS Speaking test, the examiner will stop you at 2 minutes. This is a good thing because you have shown a lot of language. If you only speak for a minute or a minute and a half for example, the examiner might say "Can you tell me anything more about that?" to encourage you to keep speaking.

How do I improve my fluency? Should I ever try to use a different accent to my own?

To improve your fluency, try to practice as much as you can. The more words you know, the less you have to search for words. Also, use connecting words to help you keep going. The only problem with accents is if it stops people from understanding you. Just try to make the sounds of English so you can be understood.

I am a native speaker. Why do I need to take the IELTS test?

IELTS may be a requirement for entering your desired course in an educational institution. It is also used in many countries as a part of their migration assessment. If you are not sure as to why you might need to sit the IELTS test or about the score you need, contact the organisation you are applying to.

They will be able to provide further information, including whether native speakers need to complete the IELTS test. Even if English is your primary language, you will still need to prepare for the test.

Get your results

IELTS Academic Speaking

Free practice test and question types