Cambridge B2 First Speaking tests real-time interactive communication across four parts in 14 minutes. Part 1 is a short interview about personal interests. Part 2 is an individual 1-minute turn comparing two photos. Part 3 is a two-way collaborative task with your partner. Part 4 is a general discussion exploring deeper issues connected to Part 3. Examiners assess Grammar, Vocabulary, Discourse, Pronunciation, and Interaction. On this hub, you can practise with authentic prompts and recording tools.

Format & timing

The test is conducted face-to-face with two examiners and one or two partners. Below are the timings and tasks for each part.

Part 1·Interview (personal & everyday topics)
General Qs·Criteria marks·2 min
Part 2·Long Turn (Photo comparison)
2 photos·Criteria marks·4 min
Part 3·Collaborative Task (mind map discussion)
5 prompts·Criteria marks·3 min
Part 4·Discussion (opinions & broadening ideas)
Broader Qs·Criteria marks·4 min
Total·Speaking (Parts 1–4)
4 parts·Scaled 160+ marks·14 min

In Part 2, do NOT simply describe what you see; you must compare the situations and answer the question at the top of the page.

How it is marked

The interlocutor awards a global achievement mark, while the assessor scores four detailed analytical criteria (Grammar and Vocabulary, Discourse Management, Pronunciation, and Interactive Communication). 160 is the Grade C pass benchmark.

How to train B2 Speaking

Fluency and turn-taking habits develop with vocal practice, not silent reading.

101

Train photo comparison formulas

Practise using comparison structures: "Whereas the people in the first photo appear to be..., the individual in the second picture..."

Browse tests

202

Time yourself for exactly 60 seconds

Train the 1-minute long turn until you instinctively know when 45 seconds have passed, allowing 15 seconds to answer the second question.

303

Learn interaction & negotiation phrases

Develop conversational transitions: "Shall we move on to...?", "What’s your take on this?", and "I hadn’t thought of it that way, but..."

404

Record and analyse your voice

Listen back to check for hesitations, flat intonation, repetitive vocabulary, or incomplete sentences.

Try speaking practice

505

Read part guides for high-scoring models

Review our candidate sample answers and examiner commentary to see what earns top marks.

Speaking guides

Frequent mistakes in B2 Speaking

Avoid these candidate traps that harm your Interactive Communication score.

Part 1

Giving one-word answers

Avoid simply saying "Yes" or "In Madrid". Always extend your answer with a reason, example, or personal detail ("Yes, because...").

Part 2

Pure description without comparison

Saying "There is a man sitting on a chair" wastes time. Compare them directly: "Both photos show people working, but while one is relaxing at home, the other is in a bustling office."

Part 3

Dominating or remaining completely silent

Part 3 tests INTERACTION. Never talk non-stop without inviting your partner, and never wait passively for them to ask you questions.

Part 3

Rushing to a decision too early

In the first 2 minutes you must discuss the prompt ideas. Do NOT choose the best option until the examiner tells you to decide in the final minute.

Study guides

B2 Speaking study guides

Exam-day tips, linking phrases, and model walkthroughs for all four parts.

Part 1

Interview & Introduction Skills

How to sound natural, extend answers, and handle personal topic questions.

Read guide1 min read

Part 2

Photo Comparison Long Turn

60-second timing, speculative language (might, seems to be), and contrast linkers.

Read guide1 min read

Part 3

Partner Collaboration & Turn-Taking

Agreeing, disagreeing politely, inviting opinions, and negotiating a decision.

Read guide1 min read

Part 4

Deepening Discussion & Debate

Justifying views, speculating on broader societal topics, and concluding arguments.

Read guide1 min read

B2 Guides

Speaking strategy & communication

Practical guides to build speaking fluency and boost your exam performance.

All guides

B2Communication

Speaking English naturally and confidently

Voice modulation, intonation, and avoiding memorised responses.

Read5 min read

B2Scale & Marks

Cambridge English Scale benchmark guide

How oral assessment marks translate into official Cambridge statement scores.

Read9 min read

B2Practice

All B2 First practice modules

Jump to Reading, Use of English, Listening, and Writing practice for B2.

Read1 min read

FAQ

B2 Speaking
FAQ.

Clear answers about format, scoring, timing, and how to practise on this hub.

How long is the Cambridge B2 First Speaking test?

The B2 First (FCE) Speaking test takes approximately 14 minutes for a pair of candidates (or about 20 minutes for a group of three). It consists of four distinct parts.

Do I take the B2 Speaking test alone or with a partner?

You take the test in pairs with another candidate (or in a group of three if there is an odd number of candidates at the test centre). There are two examiners: an interlocutor who speaks with you, and an assessor who listens and takes notes.

What happens in Part 2 Photo Comparison?

The interlocutor gives you two photographs to compare. You must speak on your own for 1 minute, comparing the images and answering the specific question printed at the top of the sheet. Then your partner answers a brief 30-second question about your photos.

What is the collaborative task in Part 3?

You and your partner receive a question with five surrounding prompt ideas. You discuss the options together for 2 minutes, then you are given 1 minute to negotiate a consensus decision.

How is B2 Speaking marked?

You are assessed on Grammatical Resource, Lexical Resource, Discourse Management, Pronunciation, and Interactive Communication. The overall pass threshold is 160 on the Cambridge English Scale (Grade C).

How can I prepare for B2 Speaking online?

Practise speaking aloud under strict timing (especially the 1-minute Part 2 comparison), record your answers, and focus on turn-taking phrases (such as "What do you think?", "I see your point, but...") for Part 3.