The speaking and writing section of the TOEIC test are assessments of English-language speaking and writing proficiency for the workplace. The TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests can be taken separately but when taken together with the TOEIC Listening and Reading test, they complement each other. Together they provide a reliable measurement of the four English-language communication skills of reading, writing, speaking and listening. The TOEIC tests use common everyday vocabulary, phrases and key expressions used in the working environment.
The TOEIC Speaking and Writing test lasts approximately 90 minutes. The speaking and writing sections of the TOEIC test are independent of each other and test-takers receive a separate TOEIC score for each to determine their level.
Other articles about the TOEIC structure:
NB: For more information on the registration process, you can check our article “How to register for TOEIC?“. We have also written an article on where to take the TOEIC in Canada.
What is the format of the Speaking test?
The TOEIC Speaking Test lasts 20 minutes. Test takers use computers and headsets as the test is taken online. Tests are recorded and sent to be marked. In the test there are 11 questions over the 20 minute period and the test is scored on a scale from 0–200.
The Speaking test measures various aspects of a student’s speaking ability. For each question candidates are given specific directions, including the time allowed for preparing and giving a response. It is an advantage to say as much as possible in the time allowed. It is also important that a student speaks clearly and answers each question according to the directions provided.
Students have to do a number of tasks including reading a paragraph aloud, describing a picture, responding to recorded questions and expressing opinions.
What about the writing test format?
The TOEIC Writing Test lasts about an hour. The writing section of the TOEIC takes approximately one hour to complete. There are 8 questions to answer including one essay question. Students have to do tasks that include writing sentences about pictures and writing email responses. Different types of writing skills are evaluated including grammar, vocabulary, organization, structure and content.
How much does it cost to take the TOEIC Speaking and Writing test?
Fees are set by test centres. Expect to pay around 115 Euro’s for the Speaking and Writing tests. There are discounts for students and the unemployed.
Where can I take the test and how do I get the results?
You take the tests at a secure online test centre and the tests are available once a month.
Candidates scores arrive by post 2 to 3 weeks after taking the TOEIC. Online scores are available in some countries. The Official Score Certificate shows candidates their Speaking Test score and Writing Test score separately. Each is reported on a scale of 0 to 200 and test takers receive an indicator of their general language skills ability and their level of speaking and writing.
How should I prepare for the TOEIC Speaking and Writing Test?
It’s a good idea to get to know the format of the Speaking and Writing TOEIC test and do practise tests to ensure there will be no surprises. Many students or even professionals do test preparation courses at a language school or by doing an online course. By doing mock tests regularly before doing the actual one, candidates will be able to identify their weak areas are and really work on them. There’s no such thing as too much preparation when it comes to the TOEIC test!
How can Global Exam help with the TOEIC test?
Global Exam is an online platform dedicated to test preparation in real exam conditions. Language experts regularly add new content to deliver effective training and provide fresh practice opportunities. The site is very interactive with practise exercises that provide immediate feedback. There are also full mock exams that can be done under timed conditions – just like in the real TOEIC test. You can review your results in the statistics tab to check your progress. You can then improve any weak areas with the help of English vocabulary word list and grammar study sheets. Sign up for a free trial version today!
