TOEFL 2026 Speaking Practice

28 TOEFL Take an Interview Practice Questions

Practice the TOEFL 2026 Take an Interview task, also called Interview Speaking, with seven audio sets, transcripts and four worked sample answers. The questions below are expert-written by Kate Feng and Michael Goodine for PrepEx.

Article and worked answers by Kate Feng · Updated 8 September 2026
7 Practice sets
28 Interview questions
Audio Included
45 sec Per response

How TOEFL 2026 Interview Speaking Works

The official Take an Interview task has four questions, no preparation time and 45 seconds to answer each question. You respond to questions about your experiences and opinions. Start directly, develop a relevant detail and finish your thought. See the Take an Interview format and strategy guide or the TOEFL 2026 Speaking overview.

  • Play the question audio before reading the transcript.
  • Start without preparation time and answer out loud for 45 seconds.
  • Open the transcript and answer focus after your first attempt.
  • Practice with one clear claim, one example, and one short explanation.

Question Sets

TOEFL 2026 Interview Speaking Questions

Each set has four questions. The transcript and answer focus are hidden by default so you can practice listening and responding first.

Set 1: Personal Finances Interview

You have agreed to take part in a research study about personal finances. You will have a short online interview with a researcher.

Expert-written by Michael Goodine
Question 1 Personal Memory · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Thanks for speaking with me today. Please think back to the last time you made an important financial decision. It could be either a major purchase you decided to make or an investment decision you made. What was it, and what led to that decision?"

Show answer focus

Identify the event, describe what happened and explain its effect on you. Check whether the prompt also asks what you did or why it mattered.

Question 2 Personal Preference · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"People respond to personal finances in different ways. Some feel good about this subject, while others feel a lot of anxiety or stress. How do you usually feel about managing your money? Why do you think you react that way?"

Show answer focus

State your preference and explain what makes it work for you. Use an ordinary situation to show the reason instead of repeating that you like it.

Question 3 Stance On Issue · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Now I'd like your opinion. Some people say that setting aside a small amount of money immediately after you get paid works better than trying to save whatever is left after you've covered your expenses. Do you agree with that idea? Why or why not?"

Show answer focus

Choose the position you can support clearly. Develop a reason or example, and show how it supports your view. A brief qualification is useful only if you have time.

Question 4 Policy Opinion · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"One last question. Do you think schools should do more to teach basic money skills such as explaining how to use simple budgeting tools and how to avoid credit card debt? Why or why not?"

Show answer focus

Say whether you support the proposal, then explain an effect it could have. If the question asks for benefits and drawbacks, cover both before finishing.

Set 2: Study Habits Interview

You have agreed to take part in an interview about study habits. You will have a short online interview with a researcher, who will ask you some questions.

Expert-written by Michael Goodine
Question 5 Personal Memory · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today. First, I want you to think back to the last time you spent a long time studying for a major test. What did you study? What study methods did you use?"

Show answer focus

Identify the event, describe what happened and explain its effect on you. Check whether the prompt also asks what you did or why it mattered.

Question 6 Personal Preference · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Thanks for sharing that experience. As you know, everyone feels differently when they have to study for a test. Some people get really anxious and worried about tests. Other people are able to stay calm and relaxed. How about you? How do you feel when you have a difficult test to prepare for?"

Show answer focus

State your preference and explain what makes it work for you. Use an ordinary situation to show the reason instead of repeating that you like it.

Question 7 Stance On Issue · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Now I'd like to get your opinion on a related matter. A lot of people feel that tests are not a good way to assess students because not everyone performs well under extreme pressure. For that reason, they think it's better to stick with assignments that students can do at their own pace. What do you think about this?"

Show answer focus

Choose the position you can support clearly. Develop a reason or example, and show how it supports your view. A brief qualification is useful only if you have time.

Question 8 Policy Opinion · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"That's an interesting perspective. Finally, I'd like to ask about a recent trend. Nowadays, some schools allow students to use AI tools and Internet search engines during tests, since they will always have access to those tools in real life. What do you think? Should these sorts of things be allowed during tests, or should students have to depend on their memory and knowledge?"

Show answer focus

Say whether you support the proposal, then explain an effect it could have. If the question asks for benefits and drawbacks, cover both before finishing.

Set 3: Entertainment and Media Interview

You have agreed to take part in a research study about entertainment and media consumption. You will have a short online interview with a researcher.

Expert-written by Kate Feng
Question 9 Personal Memory · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Thanks for joining this study. Let me start with a question about your experiences. Can you describe a movie, TV show, or live performance that left a strong impression on you? What was it about, and why did it stand out?"

Show answer focus

Identify the event, describe what happened and explain its effect on you. Check whether the prompt also asks what you did or why it mattered.

Question 10 Personal Preference · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Interesting. People relax in different ways. Some prefer quiet activities like reading or listening to podcasts, while others enjoy more exciting entertainment like concerts or action movies. What type of entertainment do you usually choose when you want to unwind, and why does it appeal to you?"

Show answer focus

State your preference and explain what makes it work for you. Use an ordinary situation to show the reason instead of repeating that you like it.

Question 11 Stance On Issue · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Now for your opinion. Some people argue that streaming services have improved entertainment by giving us more choices and convenience. Others believe they have reduced the quality of content because quantity is prioritized over creativity. Which view do you agree with more, and why?"

Show answer focus

Choose the position you can support clearly. Develop a reason or example, and show how it supports your view. A brief qualification is useful only if you have time.

Question 12 Policy Opinion · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"One final question. Some countries have proposed requiring streaming platforms to include a minimum percentage of locally produced content to support domestic creators. Do you think governments should implement such requirements? What might be the benefits and drawbacks?"

Show answer focus

Say whether you support the proposal, then explain an effect it could have. If the question asks for benefits and drawbacks, cover both before finishing.

Set 4: Food and Dining Interview

You have agreed to take part in a research study about food preferences and dining habits. You will have a short online interview with a researcher.

Expert-written by Kate Feng
Question 13 Personal Memory · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Thank you for participating today. To begin, I would like you to think about a memorable meal you have had, perhaps at a restaurant, during a celebration, or while traveling. What made that dining experience special?"

Show answer focus

Identify the event, describe what happened and explain its effect on you. Check whether the prompt also asks what you did or why it mattered.

Question 14 Personal Preference · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Good. When it comes to eating, some people enjoy cooking meals at home because they can control ingredients and save money. Others prefer eating out or ordering delivery for the convenience and variety. Which do you tend to prefer, and what influences your choice?"

Show answer focus

State your preference and explain what makes it work for you. Use an ordinary situation to show the reason instead of repeating that you like it.

Question 15 Stance On Issue · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Here is something to consider. Some nutritionists say that traditional home-cooked meals are healthier and bring families closer together. Others point out that modern food delivery services save time and allow people to focus on other priorities. What is your perspective on this debate?"

Show answer focus

Choose the position you can support clearly. Develop a reason or example, and show how it supports your view. A brief qualification is useful only if you have time.

Question 16 Policy Opinion · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"For my last question, some cities have introduced taxes on sugary drinks and unhealthy foods to encourage better eating habits. Do you think such policies are effective and fair, or should food choices remain entirely personal decisions? Please explain your reasoning."

Show answer focus

Say whether you support the proposal, then explain an effect it could have. If the question asks for benefits and drawbacks, cover both before finishing.

Set 5: Friendship and Relationships Interview

You have agreed to take part in a research study about friendships and social connections. You will have a short online interview with a researcher.

Expert-written by Kate Feng
Question 17 Personal Memory · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Thanks for speaking with me today. Let us start with a personal question. Can you tell me about a friendship that has been particularly important in your life? How did you meet this person, and what makes the friendship meaningful to you?"

Show answer focus

Identify the event, describe what happened and explain its effect on you. Check whether the prompt also asks what you did or why it mattered.

Question 18 Personal Preference · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"I see. People maintain friendships in different ways. Some prefer frequent contact through calls, messages, or meetups, while others are comfortable with occasional check-ins and believe true friendships can survive long periods without communication. What is your approach to staying connected with friends?"

Show answer focus

State your preference and explain what makes it work for you. Use an ordinary situation to show the reason instead of repeating that you like it.

Question 19 Stance On Issue · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Now I would like your opinion on something. Some people believe that online friendships formed through social media or gaming can be just as meaningful as friendships formed in person. Others argue that face-to-face interaction is essential for deep connections. Which position do you support, and why?"

Show answer focus

Choose the position you can support clearly. Develop a reason or example, and show how it supports your view. A brief qualification is useful only if you have time.

Question 20 Policy Opinion · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"One last question. Research shows that loneliness is increasing, especially among young adults. Some experts suggest that schools and workplaces should create structured programs to help people build social connections. Do you think institutions should take an active role in addressing loneliness, or is this a personal matter?"

Show answer focus

Say whether you support the proposal, then explain an effect it could have. If the question asks for benefits and drawbacks, cover both before finishing.

Set 6: Housing and Living Situations Interview

You have agreed to take part in a research study about housing preferences and living arrangements. You will have a short online interview with a researcher.

Expert-written by Kate Feng
Question 21 Personal Memory · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Thank you for joining this study. To start, I would like you to think about a place you have lived that left a strong impression on you. It could be a childhood home, a dormitory, or an apartment. What do you remember most about living there?"

Show answer focus

Identify the event, describe what happened and explain its effect on you. Check whether the prompt also asks what you did or why it mattered.

Question 22 Personal Preference · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Interesting. When choosing a place to live, people prioritize different things. Some value location and convenience, while others focus on space, cost, or the surrounding community. What factors matter most to you when deciding where to live, and why?"

Show answer focus

State your preference and explain what makes it work for you. Use an ordinary situation to show the reason instead of repeating that you like it.

Question 23 Stance On Issue · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Now for your perspective. There is an ongoing debate about whether young adults should live independently as soon as possible or stay with family longer to save money and maintain close relationships. Which approach do you think is better, and what are your reasons?"

Show answer focus

Choose the position you can support clearly. Develop a reason or example, and show how it supports your view. A brief qualification is useful only if you have time.

Question 24 Policy Opinion · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"One final question. In many cities, housing costs have risen dramatically, making it difficult for young people to afford their own homes. Some propose that governments should build more affordable housing, while others believe the market should determine prices. What role do you think the government should play in addressing housing affordability?"

Show answer focus

Say whether you support the proposal, then explain an effect it could have. If the question asks for benefits and drawbacks, cover both before finishing.

Set 7: Sports and Physical Activity Interview

You have agreed to take part in a research study about sports and physical activity. You will have a short online interview with a researcher.

Expert-written by Kate Feng
Question 25 Personal Memory · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Thanks for being here today. Let me begin with a question about your experiences. Can you describe a time when playing a sport or doing physical activity had a meaningful impact on you? What happened, and why was it significant?"

Show answer focus

Identify the event, describe what happened and explain its effect on you. Check whether the prompt also asks what you did or why it mattered.

Question 26 Personal Preference · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Good. People have different preferences when it comes to staying active. Some enjoy team sports because of the social aspect and competition, while others prefer individual activities like running or swimming where they can set their own pace. Which type of physical activity do you prefer, and what draws you to it?"

Show answer focus

State your preference and explain what makes it work for you. Use an ordinary situation to show the reason instead of repeating that you like it.

Question 27 Stance On Issue · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"Here is a topic for discussion. Some people believe that competitive sports teach valuable life skills like discipline, teamwork, and handling pressure. Others argue that the emphasis on winning can be harmful and that non-competitive physical activities are healthier. What is your view on this debate?"

Show answer focus

Choose the position you can support clearly. Develop a reason or example, and show how it supports your view. A brief qualification is useful only if you have time.

Question 28 Policy Opinion · 45 seconds
Show question transcript

"For my last question, some educators have proposed requiring daily physical education for all students through high school, even if it means less time for academic subjects. Do you think mandatory daily physical education is a good policy? What are the potential benefits and drawbacks?"

Show answer focus

Say whether you support the proposal, then explain an effect it could have. If the question asks for benefits and drawbacks, cover both before finishing.

Four TOEFL Take an Interview sample answers

These original sample responses and explanations by Kate Feng use the four Entertainment and Media questions in the audio bank. Try answering first, then compare how each response develops its point. They are examples to learn from, not scripts to memorize or officially scored answers. Time your own delivery for 45 seconds; pace will vary.

Describe an experience

Question: Thanks for joining this study. Let me start with a question about your experiences. Can you describe a movie, TV show, or live performance that left a strong impression on you? What was it about, and why did it stand out?

Read sample answer and explanation
One performance that stayed with me was a small outdoor concert at my university. A student jazz band was playing, and halfway through, their sound system stopped working. Instead of leaving the stage, they moved closer to the audience and played without microphones. People gathered around them, and the atmosphere became much more relaxed. I remember hearing the drummer tap a quiet rhythm while the singer asked us to join in. It stood out because an equipment problem turned a normal concert into something that felt personal. I enjoyed that part more than the planned performance.

Why this response works: The answer identifies a performance, describes what happened and explains why it made an impression. The equipment problem gives the story a clear sequence. Notice that the speaker develops one event instead of listing several concerts.

Watch for: Only saying that a concert was amazing would leave the listener guessing. Name something the performers or audience actually did.

Explain a preference

Question: Interesting. People relax in different ways. Some prefer quiet activities like reading or listening to podcasts, while others enjoy more exciting entertainment like concerts or action movies. What type of entertainment do you usually choose when you want to unwind, and why does it appeal to you?

Read sample answer and explanation
I usually read when I want to relax, especially after a day when I’ve spent a lot of time talking to people. I like being able to choose my own pace. With a concert or an action film, there’s always something demanding my attention, but I can put a book down for a minute and just sit quietly. At the moment, I’m reading a collection of short stories. I can finish one before bed without feeling that I need to stay up for another episode. That makes reading a good way for me to switch off.

Why this response works: The opening chooses an activity. The comparison explains why it suits this speaker, and the short-story example shows how it fits into a daily routine. Every detail supports the preference.

Watch for: Do not spend most of the answer describing entertainment you dislike. Give the listener a reason for your own choice.

Support an opinion

Question: Now for your opinion. Some people argue that streaming services have improved entertainment by giving us more choices and convenience. Others believe they have reduced the quality of content because quantity is prioritized over creativity. Which view do you agree with more, and why?

Read sample answer and explanation
I agree more with the view that streaming has improved entertainment. What matters most to me is being able to find films that a local cinema would never show. Last month, for example, I watched a documentary made in another country that I had only heard about through a friend. A few years ago, I probably couldn’t have seen it at all. There are certainly plenty of forgettable shows on these services, but I can ignore those. Having more choice lets me find something that fits my interests instead of accepting whatever happens to be scheduled.

Why this response works: The speaker selects one of the two views and supports it with an example of access to an unfamiliar film. A brief concession acknowledges weak content without losing the main argument.

Watch for: If you discuss both views for the whole response, your position may remain unclear. State which view you favor near the beginning.

Weigh a policy trade-off

Question: One final question. Some countries have proposed requiring streaming platforms to include a minimum percentage of locally produced content to support domestic creators. Do you think governments should implement such requirements? What might be the benefits and drawbacks?

Read sample answer and explanation
I would support a modest requirement for local content, but I’d be careful about setting the percentage too high. The main benefit is that local filmmakers could reach viewers who might otherwise only see big international productions. It could also give new writers a chance to make stories in their own language. On the other hand, a strict quota might push a platform to buy low-quality programs just to meet the number. I’d prefer a smaller requirement combined with support for training and production, so the policy helps people make worthwhile shows, not just more shows.

Why this response works: The answer gives a position, a benefit and a drawback, covering both parts of the prompt. The final proposal follows from the quota concern rather than introducing an unrelated policy.

Watch for: This question specifically asks about benefits and drawbacks. Giving only reasons to support local creators would leave one part unanswered.

For timing and response structure, read the Take an Interview strategy guide. To hear how your own answer sounds, try the free recording and AI feedback preview.

Want AI feedback on your Interview Speaking answers?

Reading prompts helps, but spontaneous speaking improves faster when you record answers and get feedback on delivery, language use, topic development, and prompt alignment.

Interview Speaking FAQ

Are these 28 questions or 28 sets?

These are 28 question-level prompts across 7 Interview Speaking sets. Each set has 4 questions.

Do these questions have correct answers?

No. Interview Speaking is not multiple choice. Your score depends on how clearly, fully, and naturally you answer the question.

Should I read the transcript before listening?

No. Play the audio first so you practice the real task. Use the transcript only after your first answer attempt.

Where can I practice full TOEFL 2026 speaking sets?

You can practice full Interview Speaking and Listen and Repeat sets in the PrepEx Practice Hub.