TOEFL Speaking Section 2026: New Tasks, Format, Preparation

TOEFL speaking section 2026 is under process of transformation. This transformation marks one of the most substantial updates to the TOEFL iBT exam in decades. The Speaking section is going to start on January 21, 2026. This section will be completely revamped with the introduction of new task types and a shorter format. These types better align with real-world communication and usage of spontaneous english in an academic environment.

Here we provide the latest, correct information on the TOEFL Speaking 2026 changes with detailed information on new formats of questions and important strategies to prepare.

TOEFL Speaking 2026 Key Changes 

One of the most important updates for the TOEFL speaking section 2026 is that all four previous Speaking tasks are set to be completely removed and replaced with two dynamic, new task types.

The total estimated time for the Speaking section is reduced from approximately 16–17 minutes down to up to 8 minutes. This reflects ETS's focus on a shorter, more efficient experience of testing.

Old Format vs New TOEFL Speaking 2026 Format

The TOEFL Speaking section will undergo a major transformation starting January 21, 2026. The new pattern is shorter, more spontaneous, and designed to reflect real-world communication skills rather than structured academic tasks. Here is a clear comparison that highlights how the old format differs from the newly introduced version of 2026.

TOEFL Speaking Section 2026 Tasks Breakdown 

The updated Speaking section has two primary task modules with a total of 11 questions. The focus has shifted completely to spontaneous response. It means no preparation time is provided for either task.

Task 1: Listen and Repeat (Questions 1 to 7)

The Listen and Repeat module is set to test memory, pronunciation, rhythm, and accuracy under pressure.

• Number of Questions: 7 sentences.

• Format: You will hear a series of progressively difficult short utterances, for example, directions, descriptions, one by one. You must repeat each sentence exactly as you hear it.

• Goal: To replicate the audio prompt, demonstrating high accuracy in pronunciation and auditory memory. Minor grammar or word changes may be acceptable for top scores, but severe distortion will result in lower scores.

• Time: You will have 8 to 12 seconds to record your repetition for each sentence.

Task 2: Take an Interview (Questions 8 to 11)

The TOEFL Speaking question 2. This is the second module, consisting of 4 questions that simulate a structured, spontaneous interview on a familiar, non-academic topic.

• Number of Questions: 4 follow-up questions.

• Format: The module begins with a short introduction (for example, agreeing to participate in a study). The interviewer will then ask 3 to 4 questions about the same topic (for example, commuting habits, urban life). You must respond to the questions of the interviewer spontaneously.

• Goal: This section evaluates your ability to speak fluently and clearly, develop and expand on your ideas, and use accurate grammar and vocabulary in a conversational setting.

• Time: You have 45 seconds to answer each question.

How to Prepare for New TOEFL Changes 2026 Speaking Section?

The shift in the TOEFL speaking section 2026 requires a fundamental change in study focus. Candidates need to move away from memorising templates and focus instead on natural, spontaneous speech.

For Listen and Repeat (Questions 1 to 7)

Train Auditory Memory: As there is no preparation time, you need to immediately repeat the sentence. Practice listening to moderately long, complex English sentences and repeating them without looking at a transcript.

Focus on Pronunciation & Rhythm: Practice shadowing, where you listen to an audio clip and try to match the pace of the speaker, rhythm, and intonation exactly. This is important for achieving an exact repetition.

Break Down Complexity: Start by repeating short phrases, then move to longer sentences (7 to 10 words) that cover daily life or campus situations.

For Take an Interview (Questions 8 to 11)

Practice Spontaneous Mini-Interviews: The format simulates an interview, so practice responding to common opinion-based questions (personal recollections, preferences, taking a stance) with limited thinking time.

Focus on Fluency and Elaboration: Your response must be fluent and coherent. Use a natural speaking pace and avoid long pauses. Since you have 45 seconds, learn to support your main point with two distinct reasons or examples to fully elaborate on your idea.

Use Transitional Phrases: Incorporate basic transitions like "moreover," "as a result," or "on the one hand/on the other hand" to give your answer better structure and flow.

Broaden Vocabulary: Show off a wide range of vocabulary. Avoid repeating the same simple words or phrases too often.

TOEFL 2026 Practice Test and Resources

Preparing for the updated format is critical. Ensure your study materials and TOEFL 2026 practice test resources reflect the new 'Listen and Repeat' and 'Take an Interview' tasks, not the previous four tasks.

Official ETS Resources: Always refer to the official ETS website for the most accurate and up-to-date practice materials and scoring guides. They have been consistently updating resources for the 2026 changes.

AI-Powered Feedback: The new section is expected to be primarily scored by an AI engine. Practicing with AI-driven feedback tools can help you understand how machine scoring evaluates your fluency, grammar, and pronunciation based on the required criteria.