The Aptis speaking test is short, computer-based and very structured, which makes it easy to prepare for once you know the format. This guide explains all four parts of the Aptis speaking test, what each one checks, and simple tips to get a higher score. You can also practise Parts 1 and 4 for free with our IELTS and Aptis speaking practice tool.
The details below are based on the British Council’s Aptis General guide for teachers. Always check the official information for your test version, as Aptis for Teachers or Teens can differ.
Aptis Speaking Test Format at a Glance
| Part | What you do | Time to speak |
|---|---|---|
| Part 1 | Answer 3 personal questions | 30 seconds each |
| Part 2 | Describe a photo, then answer 2 related questions | 45 seconds each |
| Part 3 | Compare two photos, then answer 2 questions | 45 seconds each |
| Part 4 | Answer 3 questions on one topic in a single talk | 1 minute to prepare, 2 minutes to speak |
The whole speaking component takes about 12 minutes. You speak into a headset microphone, your answers are recorded, and a timer on screen shows how much time is left.
Part 1: Personal Information
You answer three short questions about yourself, such as your family, your free time or where you live. Each answer has 30 seconds.
- Give a direct answer, then add a reason and an example.
- Aim for three or four sentences. Thirty seconds is longer than it feels.
- Avoid one-word answers and memorized speeches. Examiners notice both.
Example: “I live in a small apartment near the city centre. I like it because it is close to my office, so I can walk to work. The only problem is that it can be quite noisy at night.”
Part 2: Describe a Photo and Give Opinions
You describe one photo, then answer two questions about the same topic. The questions become more complex, for example moving from what you see to your opinion.
- Describe the main scene first, then the details: who, where, what is happening.
- Use phrases like “In the foreground…”, “It looks like…” and “They seem to be…”.
- For opinion questions, give a clear view and support it with a reason or personal example.
Part 3: Compare Two Photos
You compare two photos and then answer two questions that move from description to speculation, such as which situation you would prefer and why.
- Talk about similarities and differences, not just one photo after the other.
- Use comparison language: “Both photos show…”, “whereas…”, “On the other hand…”.
- Speculate with “might”, “could” and “I imagine that…”.
Part 4: Long Turn on an Abstract Topic
You see a picture and three questions about a personal experience and a wider topic. You have one minute to prepare and can take notes, then you speak for two minutes in one answer covering all three questions.
- Do not describe the picture. The official guide notes that describing it lowers your score; it is only there to introduce the topic.
- Use your minute to write three short notes, one for each question.
- Answer the questions in order and signal each one: “First…”, “As for…”, “Finally…”.
- Use the full two minutes. Finishing early reduces the evidence of your English.
Tips That Help in Every Part
- Use the full time. You can click “Finish Recording” early, but you should keep talking until the timer ends.
- Speak clearly at a natural pace. Fluency matters more than complex words.
- Fix small mistakes and move on. Self-correction is fine; long silences are not.
- Practise with a timer. Knowing how long 30 seconds, 45 seconds and 2 minutes feel is a big advantage.
- Get used to British voices. Aptis is a British Council exam, so practise listening to UK English with our free English shadowing tool.
How to Practise for the Aptis Speaking Test for Free
- Timed practice: our IELTS and Aptis speaking practice tool has Aptis Part 1 and Part 4 modes with an examiner voice, timer and recordings you can listen back to.
- Fluency: shadow short texts every day to improve rhythm and pronunciation.
- Feedback: record an answer, then paste a transcript into ChatGPT and ask for corrections. Our guide on how to practice English speaking with ChatGPT has ready-made prompts.
- Vocabulary: use our ChatGPT prompts for learning English to build topic vocabulary for family, work, travel, technology and the environment.
- Photo practice: pick any two photos from a news site and practise Parts 2 and 3 with a 45-second timer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Aptis speaking test?
The Aptis General speaking component takes about 12 minutes and has four parts. Other Aptis versions can differ, so check the official guide for your test.
Is the Aptis speaking test with a real examiner?
No. It is computer-based. You listen to the questions through headphones and your answers are recorded and marked later by trained examiners.
What should I do in Aptis speaking Part 4?
Use the one minute to note ideas for each of the three questions, then speak for the full two minutes answering them in order. Do not describe the picture.
Can I practise Aptis speaking online for free?
Yes. Our free speaking practice tool includes Aptis Part 1 and Part 4 modes with timing and recording, and the British Council publishes free sample tests.
For more free practice tools and a 20-minute daily routine, see our AI for learning English guide.
Final Thoughts
The Aptis speaking test rewards clear, well-organized answers that use the full time. Learn the four parts, practise with a timer, and for Part 4 answer the three questions instead of describing the picture. A few weeks of short daily practice can make a real difference to your score.