How to Improve Your Speaking for the Cambridge English Speaking Test

Students practising for the Cambridge English speaking test

What is the Cambridge English speaking test?

Cambridge English Qualifications are exams that officially show your level of English. They are produced by Cambridge University Press & Assessment, so they are internationally recognised and of high quality. Each exam tests reading, writing, listening and speaking, so the speaking test is one part of a bigger exam.

What do you do in the speaking test?

This depends on the level of the exam. At most levels you take the test with a partner who is also taking the exam, and you complete several tasks together. An examiner gives you instructions. Tasks can include talking about photos, discussing ideas and reaching an agreement, giving and justifying your opinions, and talking about familiar topics such as family and work.

How is your mark decided?

The examiners listen for:

Pronunciation: how easy is it to understand you?
Grammar and vocabulary: do you use appropriate words and a good range of language?
Interaction: do you start, keep and finish conversations with your partner appropriately?
Discourse management: do you organise your ideas logically and speak without too much hesitation?

Remember: the examiners are looking for things to give you marks for, not reasons to take marks away.

How can I prepare?

First, make sure you know which level you are taking. There are exams from A2 to C2, and each one is a little different. Then look at practice material and example tasks: the more familiar you are with the instructions, the more relaxed you will be on the day. Ideally, practise the tasks with another student at a similar level, with a teacher to give you feedback. A Cambridge preparation course is the best way to do this.

Tips for improving your score

Record yourself to check your pronunciation.
Repeat tasks until you can do them without too much hesitation.
Watch examples of other candidates taking the test.
Do grammar and vocabulary exercises to expand your language for your level.
Practise, practise, practise!

Where can I prepare?

ILC offers Cambridge Exam Preparation courses at our schools in Birmingham, Bristol, Cambridge, Colchester and Portsmouth. Read more in our guide on how to prepare for the Cambridge exams.