In this lesson, we practice the 5 most frequent questions in IELTS Speaking Part 1 under the title of Studies & Education.
- Actual exam questions
- Words & Expressions to be used in your answers
- Sample answers
- Hints & notes
- Audio files
You will be prompted to practice these Speaking & Conversation topics. First, read the introduction below:
In this lesson, we practice the 5 most frequent questions in IELTS Speaking Part 1 under the title of Studies & Education.
Do you work or study?
I am mainly a student at university. My focus is on studying and completing my coursework. Sometimes I do part-time work to earn extra money, but my primary activity is learning and preparing for my future career.
< Listen to audio >
1. Do you work or study?
Helpful words/collocations:
• currently studying
• focus on studies
• as a student
• mainly study
• dedicate time to learning
• student life
What do you like most about your studies?
What I enjoy most about my studies is the opportunity to learn new skills and gain knowledge in my chosen field. I also appreciate the chance to meet new people and participate in interesting discussions and projects.
< Listen to audio >
2. What do you like most about your studies?
Helpful words/collocations:
• learning new things
• gaining knowledge
• improving skills
• interesting subjects
• engaging classes
• intellectual growth
What kind of job do you prefer after graduation?
After graduation, I would prefer a job that offers creativity and opportunities for professional growth. I want to use my skills in a challenging environment and contribute to meaningful projects while also developing my career.
< Listen to audio >
3. What kind of job do you prefer after graduation?
Helpful words/collocations:
• use my skills
• creative work
• career growth opportunities
• professional development
• challenging roles
• job satisfaction
What is your major?
My major is environmental science, which I chose because I am passionate about protecting our planet. I enjoy studying topics like renewable energy, conservation, and sustainable development, and I hope to work in this field someday.
< Listen to audio >
4. What is/was your major?
Helpful words/collocations:
• my field of study
• major in
• area of specialization
• academic focus
• subject of study
• university major
Do you go to the university library very often?
I don’t go to the university library very often, but I visit it occasionally when I need access to certain books, research materials, or quiet space to focus on my assignments and prepare for exams.
< Listen to audio >
5. Do you go to the university library very often?
Helpful words/collocations:
• visit the library
• study there
• find resources
• do research
• library sessions
• quiet study environment
A typical answer could be:
“At the moment, I am studying software engineering. I’ve been delving into various programming languages and software development methodologies, and I’m really enjoying the process of building projects and solving problems. My studies are helping me gain a strong theoretical foundation as well as practical skills that I look forward to applying in the industry.”
Exam Question:
1. “At the moment, are you studying or working?”
Other questions with the same context:
2. “What are you currently focused on in your educational journey?”
3. “Are you pursuing any academic programs or courses right now?”
4. “What are you doing at the moment—are you engaged in any studies?”
5. “Can you tell me about your current commitments, like school or work?”
To increase your exercise routine, feel free to utilize any available chatbot. Simply copy the prompts below and use them to instruct the chatbot to create practice activities related to today’s lesson.
“Please ask me five questions on the subject of Education as asked in the IELTS speaking exam part 1. Check my answers and give relevant feedback.”
If you have official access to Xwrails chatbot, it is trained to help you practice speaking on “Hometown”. Just click here.
If you need more information about our chatbot:
Click to open media files including audio(s) and video(s), if available.
SelfOstudy, All rights reserved, 2025
To teachers #1
Begin by introducing the task and explaining that students will describe their “Education & field of study”. This activity will help them practice using a variety of descriptive words and phrases.
To teachers #2
Provide a list of useful words and collocations for each aspect of the description to help students formulate their thoughts and responses.
To teachers #3
Provide short sample answers for each part to demonstrate how students can structure their responses. This helps them understand what is expected and gives them a starting point for their own answers.