IELTS Speaking Part 1: Your studies

Questions and sample answers

1. 1. Do you work, or are you a student?

   I’m a full-time student at the moment. I’m in my third year at university, so I’m fairly close to finishing.

2. 2. What subject are you studying, and why did you choose it?

   I’m studying civil engineering. I chose it mainly because I’ve always liked seeing how things are built, and to be honest, my father is an engineer too, so I grew up around it.

3. 3. What do you enjoy most about your studies?

   Probably the practical side. We spend a lot of time on site visits and design projects, and I find that far more motivating than sitting through lectures.

4. 4. Is there anything about your course you would change?

   If I could, I’d add more work placements. The theory is solid, but I think a few months in a real company would prepare us much better for our first job.

Each sample is two to four sentences: the answer, a reason or example, then stop. Use them to hear the shape, not to memorise. Examiners are trained to spot a rehearsed answer, and it costs fluency marks.

Language this topic rewards

• I’m in my final / third year: Gives your stage of study naturally instead of "I am studying in year three".
• major in / specialise in: More precise than repeating "study".
• the practical side of the course: Lets you contrast theory and practice.
• if I could change one thing, …: A clean way into a second conditional.
• it ties in with what I want to do later: Links your course to your plans without a speech.