The speaking exam or interview could be described as the easiest part of the IELTS exam. Unlike many other examinations, there is only you and one examiner. The exam has been designed to create the opportunity for you to speak. The topics are related to your and your opinions.

The interview lasts about 12 minutes and there are three stages.

In the first stage you are asked some general questions about yourself, your family or your job. In the second stage you make a short presentation on a topic such as a teacher you liked, an important festival, or a great day in your life. The final part is a short discussion on a related topic. For example, if your presentation was on festivals, then the examiner might ask you about the importance of festivals in modern life and attitudes to them in your grandparent’s day. You may be asked whether you think traditions are being lost in the modern world.