There will be two examiners (left) and two candidates (right). Very occasionally there are 3 students but in this guide we are focusing on a two student exam. See the FAQs for information about three students. The examiner at the back is taking notes and doesn't speak during the exam. 

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There are four parts to the exam that Cambridge call:

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1 Interview 2 minutes

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2 Long Turn 4 minutes

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3 Collaborative Task 4 minutes

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4 Discussion 4 minutes

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Total 14 minutes. You will only speak for about 5 minutes in total!

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Nerves

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You are going to be nervous - of course you are! But remember that the examiner is nervous too. She (and it normally is a she) is doing her job and it's more difficult than it appears...

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Andrea writes: Being an examiner can be quite stressful. We have to follow a script exactly and keep an eye on the time. We have to ensure that each section lasts a certain amount of time and that each candidate is given the same opportunity to speak - you can see a clock on the table in the picture above. On top of that (a nice connector by the way!) we are also assessing each candidate. Sometimes I feel like a juggler! And then we might do up to 20 exams in a single day which can be exhausting,

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But remember this: We know that you are nervous. We know you have worked hard to get here. We know it is important for you. We want you to do well! We are on your side!

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Psychology

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If you've read our guide to the marking criteria you'll notice that it says nothing of psychology but it is an important part of human interaction. You, your partner and the examiner are human so...

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Be friendly, smile, use eye contact and your hands when speaking and remember to say thank you to the examiners at the end.

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Mistakes

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You are going to make mistakes but big deal! Everyone makes mistakes in life! If you make a mistake but correct yourself quickly that's fantastic but if not just move on and don't worry about it.