SELT Practice
LanguageCert B1 speaking parts
The LanguageCert B1 speaking parts are personal information, role play, exchanging information and the long turn. As of 9 November 2026, the LanguageCert handbook gives the timings below. The examples are written by us in the style of the test.
Part 1: personal information
You spell your family name and say where you are from. Then you answer four questions chosen from topic headings. Time: 1.5 to 2.5 minutes.
Topic areas at B1 include: all the A1 and A2 areas, plus income and prospects, character, the cost and type of housing, entering and leaving a country, clubs, government and politics, crime and justice, social affairs, museums, the arts, and qualifications.
- Spell your name slowly, letter by letter.
- Give one reason or detail after each short answer.
Part 2: role play
There are two situations. In the first, the examiner starts and you answer. In the second, you start. Each has about two turns for each speaker. Time: 1.5 to 2 minutes. You never take a different persona.
Examples in this style: You are a tourist. I work at the information desk. Ask where you can buy souvenirs. and I am your manager. Ask me if you can have Friday off and explain why.
Use polite words: please, could I, thank you. In the situation where you start, say your request in your first sentence.
Part 3: exchanging information
You look at pictures with the examiner and talk together to reach a decision. Time: about 2.5 minutes.
Example style, written by us: The examiner shows pictures of three possible gifts for a friend's new baby. You discuss them and agree on one, giving reasons.
- Give a reason for each choice, then ask what the examiner thinks.
Part 4b: the long turn
You get 30 seconds to prepare. Then you talk for 1.5 minutes. After that, the examiner asks follow-up questions.
Example topics in this style: A difficult decision you made, A time you learned something new, A place you would like to visit again.
- Use the 30 seconds to choose three ideas.
- Keep talking until the examiner stops you.
- If you finish early, add an example from your own life.
How to practise these parts
Practise one part at a time, then all four in order. Our AI examiner follows these parts, or you can take the free level check, no sign-up, at level check.
Listening part 4a is on its own page: LanguageCert B1 listening part. The full guide is LanguageCert B1 test.
What are the parts of the LanguageCert B1 speaking test?
Part 1 personal information, part 2 role play, part 3 exchanging information, part 4a listen and respond, and part 4b long turn.
Do I have to act as another person in the role play?
No. The handbook says the candidate never takes a different persona.
How long is the long turn at B1?
1.5 minutes, after 30 seconds of preparation.
Can I make notes in the speaking test?
The handbook allows notes in part 4a. It does not say you can write notes in part 4b, so do not rely on it.