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IELTS Academic

IELTS Academic Speaking

A conversation in three parts, 11 to 14 minutes, from familiar topics to more abstract discussion. It is the same for Academic and General Training.

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Time
11-14 min
Parts
3
Part 2 preparation
1 min
Part 2 talk
Up to 2 min

The three parts

Part 1 - Interview (4-5 min)

Questions about familiar topics: your home, work or studies, hobbies and daily life.

Part 2 - Long turn (3-4 min)

You get a task card with a topic and points to cover, one minute to make notes, then speak for up to two minutes. There may be a short follow-up question.

Part 3 - Discussion (4-5 min)

A two-way discussion of broader, more abstract questions linked to the Part 2 topic.

How it's marked

Four criteria, each worth a quarter of your band:

  • Fluency and Coherence
  • Lexical Resource
  • Grammatical Range and Accuracy
  • Pronunciation
Practise it here

Speaking practice that feels like the exam

  • Record every answer in your browser, Part 2 with its preparation minute
  • AI marks all four criteria from a transcript of your answers, with comments and next steps
  • See the transcript and your speaking speed for each answer
  • Pronunciation is an estimate - the marker reads a transcript, not your voice - and a teacher can review it
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Tips

Quick wins

  1. Answer, then add a reason or an example - one-word answers in Part 1 hold your band down.
  2. Use the preparation minute in Part 2 to note one word per point, not sentences.
  3. If you don't know a word, describe it. Paraphrasing is a skill the examiner listens for.
  4. It is fine to ask the examiner to repeat a question.
  5. Memorised answers are easy to spot and are marked down.

Academic Speaking FAQ

Is Speaking different for Academic and General Training?

No. The Speaking test is the same for both.

How can AI mark speaking?

Your recordings are transcribed, and the marker judges fluency, vocabulary and grammar from the transcript and timing - speed and long pauses. Pronunciation is estimated from how clearly the speech recogniser heard you, so treat that score as a guide.

Is the real Speaking test with a person?

Yes - a face-to-face conversation with a certified examiner, in person or by video call depending on the test centre.

Try an IELTS Academic Speaking test

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