How can I get 8.5 in IELTS speaking section?

No, the Speaking test is always face-to-face with the examiner, even in computer-based IELTS. You don't speak to the computer.

Yes, if you book paper-based IELTS, you can pick your Speaking test slot 5 to 7 days before the exam. If you don't pick, IDP will allott it for you. For computer-based test, speaking is on same day or close to your main test.

Talk in English with a friend or just talk in front of mirror. Record your answers. Use IELTS cue cards and speak on topic for 1–2 minutes. Listen to Band 8 speaking videos online and learn how they speak.

Speaking section has 3 parts which has to be covered in 11-14 minutes.  

• Part 1 (4–5 minutes):

  • Simple questions about yourself (name, work/study, hometown, hobbies).

• Part 2 (3–4 minutes total):

  • You receive a cue card with a topic.

  • One minute to prepare, then speak for up to two minutes.

  • Examiner may ask one or two follow-up questions.

• Part 3 (4–5 minutes):

  • Discussion of more abstract ideas linked to Part 2 topic.

  • You'll be asked to compare, speculate, and justify opinions.

Tip: Treat it like a normal conversation. Be natural, but give full answers (2–3 sentences) rather than one-word responses.

The IELTS Speaking test is marked by a trained examiner during your test. They listen to how well you speak English and score you on fluency, vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. Each part is worth 25%, and all scores are added and averaged to get your final score from 0 to 9.