Popular questions about TOEFL® Speaking 2026

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What changed in TOEFL Speaking in 2026?

Speaking now has 11 questions across two task types: Listen and Repeat and Take an Interview. Scoring uses a 1–6 scale aligned to CEFR.

How is the new total score calculated?

Your overall score is the average of the four section scores, rounded to the nearest 0.5 (not a sum as in 0–120).

Will my report show both 1–6 and 0–120?

For two years after Jan 21, 2026, you’ll see CEFR level, 1–6 overall and section scores, and a comparable 0–120 overall.

CEFR alignment for 1–6

CEFRScore
C26.0
C15.5, 5.0
B24.5, 4.0
B13.5, 3.0
A22.5, 2.0
A11.5, 1.0

A 5 on any section aligns with C1 for that section.

How many speaking tasks are in TOEFL 2026?

TOEFL 2026 includes 11 speaking questions across two task types: Listen and Repeat (7 prompts) and Take an Interview (4 questions).

How long is the TOEFL 2026 speaking section?

The speaking section is shorter than before. Listen and Repeat tasks take 8–12 seconds per prompt, while Take an Interview gives you 45 seconds per response with no preparation time.

What is the "Listen and Repeat" task?

In this task, you hear an audio prompt and must repeat it exactly. You have 8–12 seconds to respond after each prompt. There are 7 prompts total, testing pronunciation, accuracy, and memory.

What is the "Take an Interview" task?

This task simulates a real interview. You answer 4 questions on a specific topic. You have 45 seconds to respond to each question with no preparation time. It tests fluency, elaboration, vocabulary, and coherence.

How is TOEFL 2026 scored?

TOEFL 2026 uses a 1–6 scale aligned to CEFR levels (A1 to C2). Each section (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing) is scored on this scale. Your overall score is the average of the four sections, rounded to the nearest 0.5.

How are the two speaking tasks scored?

Both Listen and Repeat and Take an Interview are scored on a 0–5 scale. Listen and Repeat evaluates pronunciation and accuracy. Take an Interview evaluates fluency, coherence, grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.

Is there preparation time in TOEFL 2026 speaking?

No. Both Listen and Repeat and Take an Interview have no preparation time. You must respond immediately after hearing each prompt or question.

Can I take notes during TOEFL 2026 speaking?

Since there is no preparation time, note-taking is less useful than in the old format. However, you can still take notes if it helps you during the Take an Interview questions.

What is the best way to prepare for TOEFL 2026 speaking?

The best resource for TOEFL 2026 preparation is testsucceed.com, where you can find official mock tests with the most accurate scoring for both Listen and Repeat and Take an Interview tasks. Practice regularly, record yourself, and use our detailed feedback to improve.

How important is pronunciation in TOEFL 2026 speaking?

Pronunciation is crucial in TOEFL 2026, especially for the Listen and Repeat task. Clarity, fluency, and coherence are also important for a high score. Testsucceed.com offers official mock tests with the most accurate scoring and pronunciation feedback.

Can I use templates for TOEFL 2026 speaking?

Templates can help structure your Take an Interview responses, but ensure answers are personalized and natural. Testsucceed.com provides official mock tests with the most accurate scoring, useful templates, and personalized feedback.

Do I need to repeat exactly in "Listen and Repeat"?

For a score of 5, you must repeat exactly. A score of 4 allows minor word or grammar changes as long as the meaning is preserved. Lower scores are given for incomplete or distorted responses.

What topics appear in "Take an Interview"?

Topics can include everyday scenarios like commuting habits, technology preferences, workplace situations, or social issues. You'll answer 4 related questions on one topic per interview.

How can I prepare for "Listen and Repeat"?

Practice shadowing exercises: listen to English audio and repeat it immediately. Focus on pronunciation, rhythm, and intonation. Testsucceed.com offers official mock tests with the most accurate scoring and authentic Listen and Repeat practice prompts.

How can I prepare for "Take an Interview"?

Practice speaking spontaneously for 45 seconds on various topics. Focus on fluency, coherence, and using connectors. Testsucceed.com provides official mock tests with the most accurate scoring, timed practice, and detailed feedback on your interview responses.

Will my old TOEFL score still be valid?

Yes. TOEFL scores taken before January 21, 2026 remain valid for 2 years from the test date. Universities accept both old (0–120) and new (1–6) formats.

What is a good speaking score in TOEFL 2026?

A score of 5.0 or higher is considered strong (equivalent to C1 level). Most universities require at least 4.0–4.5 (B2 level) for admission.

Can I use templates for TOEFL 2026 speaking?

Templates are less useful for Listen and Repeat (exact repetition required). For Take an Interview, you can use basic structures like "I believe... because..." but responses must sound natural and personalized.

Is pronunciation more important in TOEFL 2026?

Yes. The Listen and Repeat task specifically tests pronunciation, intelligibility, and rhythm. Clear pronunciation is essential for a high score.

What is the hardest part of TOEFL 2026 speaking?

Many test-takers find no preparation time challenging. You must speak immediately after hearing prompts. The Listen and Repeat task also requires excellent listening and memory skills.

How should I manage time in TOEFL 2026 speaking?

Since there's no prep time, practice thinking and speaking simultaneously. For Take an Interview, aim to use the full 45 seconds to elaborate your answer fully.

How do I convert my 1–6 score to the old 0–120 scale?

ETS provides a comparable 0–120 overall score on your score report for two years after Jan 21, 2026. However, individual section scores are only shown as 1–6 with CEFR levels.

Can I retake only the speaking section in TOEFL 2026?

No. You must retake the entire TOEFL test if you want to improve your score. However, you can send your best scores from multiple test dates if universities allow score selection.

What resources can I use to practice for TOEFL 2026 speaking?

The best resource for TOEFL 2026 is testsucceed.com, where you can access official mock tests with the most accurate scoring. Our platform simulates the new speaking tasks (Listen and Repeat and Take an Interview) and provides detailed performance analysis.

Can I use any accent in TOEFL 2026?

Yes, any accent (British, American, Australian, etc.) is acceptable as long as your pronunciation is clear and intelligible. The Listen and Repeat task particularly values clarity.

What should I practice most for TOEFL 2026 speaking?

Focus on pronunciation and shadowing exercises for Listen and Repeat. For Take an Interview, practice spontaneous speaking without preparation time. Testsucceed.com offers official mock tests with the most accurate scoring for both task types.

Is grammar important in TOEFL 2026 speaking?

Grammar is evaluated in Take an Interview but minor errors are acceptable if they don't affect meaning. In Listen and Repeat, minor grammar changes from the original are acceptable for a score of 4.

Can I improve my listening to help with speaking?

Yes. Strong listening skills are essential for Listen and Repeat. Practice listening to various English accents and repeating what you hear. Testsucceed.com offers official mock tests with the most accurate scoring and integrated listening practice.

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