TOEFL speaking: the questions interviewers ask
The TOEFL speaking section is recorded and scored on how clearly and completely you answer in a short time. You speak into a microphone on independent and integrated tasks.
Every interview asks different questions. Use the examples below to see the kind of question to expect, then learn the idea behind each one instead of memorising answers.
Questions interviewers commonly ask
- Do you prefer studying alone or in a group? Explain why.
- Describe a teacher who made a difference to you.
- Some people prefer cities and others small towns. Which do you prefer and why?
- Summarise a short talk you just heard in your own words.
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Try a free questionSign up freeWhat interviewers are looking for
- Practise answering inside the time limit: an unfinished answer loses marks.
- State your point in the first sentence, then give two reasons with examples.
- For integrated tasks, practise taking quick notes and summarising them in your own words.
- Speak at a steady pace. Rushing hurts clarity.
What to expect in the round
- Independent task: give and support an opinion on a familiar topic
- Integrated tasks: speak about material you read or heard
- Short preparation time, then a timed response
What to learn and practise
- Answer out loud, not only in your head. Speaking is a skill that improves only by speaking.
- Use a simple shape: the point first, then a short example, then what happened or what you learned.
- Record yourself, listen back, and fix one thing at a time (pace, filler words, structure).
- Practise with a timer so your answers fit the time you will really have.
Common questions
How do I practise timing?
Answer with a timer for 45 to 60 seconds and check that your point, reasons and ending all fit.
Is it scored by a person?
Answers are rated on clarity, delivery, language use and topic development.