Rules, comparisons and data

What is the Linguaskill test format?

Linguaskill is an online test of four modules that can be taken separately: Reading and Listening (each about 40 minutes, up to 59, with no fixed number of questions because they adapt to your level), Writing (55 minutes, an email and an essay) and Speaking (16 minutes, recorded on a computer). It reports levels from B1 to C2.
  • Guide updated · 30 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS
Take a free mock →Read the guide

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026

The four modules

From Cambridge's Linguaskill format page. Linguaskill is computer-adaptive: each answer helps the system pick the next task, and Reading and Listening end once your level is clear (Cambridge).

ModuleLengthWhat you do
ReadingAbout 40 minutes, maximum 59Adaptive; gap-fills, multiple choice, missing sentences and paragraphs, text matching
ListeningAbout 40 minutes, maximum 59Adaptive; multiple choice, sentence completion, multiple matching
Writing55 minutesPart 1 email (at least 50 words, 25% of the score); Part 2 essay (at least 250 words, 75%)
Speaking16 minutesPresentation, summary, discussion questions, recommendation, argument; answers recorded

Writing and Speaking in detail

Writing is typed. Both Writing and Speaking are marked by a mix of human examiners and auto-marking, which Cambridge calls hybrid marking (Cambridge).

Speaking uses a computer with a microphone and headphones. Three unmarked warm-up questions come first. Then you talk on a topic for 1 minute, summarise four points from a recorded meeting in 40 seconds, answer three follow-up questions, make a recommendation from a text message, and argue for and against a statement (Cambridge).

Know your target? Check where you stand

Take a free AI-scored IELTS mock and see your score per skill before you book the real test. Free account, no card.

Take a free mock →

Practise before you book: free IELTS mock test, IELTS reading practice, IELTS listening practice and IELTS speaking predictions.

Linguaskill or Linguaskill Business

Standard Linguaskill uses everyday topics such as study, work, travel and technology, and its Writing Part 2 is an essay. Linguaskill Business uses workplace topics, and its Part 2 is a report (Cambridge). Organisations choose which modules you take. Rules and fees change. Check the test owner's own page for your country before you book or pay. This guide is general information, not official advice from the test owner.

Frequently asked questions

How long is Linguaskill?+

Reading and Listening take about 40 minutes each (up to 59), Writing 55 minutes and Speaking 16 minutes. You may not need all four modules.

How many questions are in Linguaskill Reading?+

There is no fixed number. The test adapts and ends when it has enough answers to place you.

Is Linguaskill Speaking with an examiner?+

No. You answer on a computer and your responses are recorded, then marked by examiners and auto-marking.

What levels does Linguaskill report?+

B1 to C2 on the CEFR, according to Cambridge's current pages.

Keep reading

Related

Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.

© 2026 BandLadder. Written and checked by the BandLadder team. You may quote or cite this page with credit to BandLadder and a link to it; republishing it in full needs our written permission. Content use policy

Take a free mock