IELTS Speaking: from band 6 to band 8
The Speaking test lasts 11 to 14 minutes in three parts: an introduction and interview, a long turn on a cue card, and a two-way discussion. This is where most candidates plateau at band 6 or 6.5, because the gap to band 8 is about how you speak, not only what you say.
Hear band 8 answers
Listen to 10 full tests answered at band 8, each with audio and a transcript.
Hometown and travel
Test 2Work life
Test 3Learning a new skill
Test 4Technology in daily life
Test 5Food and cooking
Test 6Free time and hobbies
All band 8 Speaking sample tests →
Guides
- IELTS Speaking band descriptors, explained: The four Speaking criteria in plain English, with what band 6, 7 and 8 sound like for each, plus a self-check method.
- IELTS Speaking Part 2: how to speak for two minutes: A one-minute preparation method, a simple structure and ways to keep going when you run out of ideas.
- IELTS Speaking band 7 tips: Six fixes that move a band 6 speaker to band 7: fluency, vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, extending answers and repair.
- 7 mistakes that keep you at band 6.5 in Speaking: Seven common Speaking habits that cap the score at 6.5, what they sound like and how to fix each one.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the IELTS Speaking test?
The Speaking test takes 11 to 14 minutes and has three parts: an introduction and interview, a one to two minute talk on a cue card, and a longer discussion on related ideas.
What does a band 8 Speaking answer sound like?
It is fluent with little hesitation, uses precise and natural vocabulary, mixes simple and complex grammar with few errors, and extends each answer with reasons and examples instead of stopping after one sentence.
Should I memorise band 8 sample answers?
No. Use them to hear pace, structure and phrasing, then answer in your own words. Examiners recognise rehearsed speech and it can lower your fluency and coherence score.
Model answers on this site are original, written to the band 8 descriptors by IELTS A. They are not official IELTS material and do not guarantee a score. IELTS A is not affiliated with IELTS, the British Council, IDP or Cambridge.