What is Speak & Improve?
Speak & Improve is an English speaking practice tool developed at the University of Cambridge. It runs in your browser: you get a speaking prompt or topic, record your answer, and an AI system gives you feedback on how you did, including an estimate of your speaking level on the CEFR scale.
Most tasks are free speaking, so you are not limited to reading set sentences aloud. The tool gives feedback on pronunciation, fluency and accuracy, and includes practice tests based on the Linguaskill Speaking exam, which also suit general learners building confidence. Speak & Improve began as a research project and Cambridge still describes it as being developed. You can start without an account, and signing up unlocks more features. The level it gives is an estimate and may not always match an official exam result.
Main Features
- Record spoken answers to open prompts in the browser
- AI feedback on pronunciation, fluency and accuracy
- Estimated CEFR speaking level
- Practice tests based on Linguaskill Speaking
- No account needed to start
How to Get Started with Speak & Improve
- Go to speakandimprove.com.
- Allow microphone access in your browser.
- Pick a task and speak your answer when prompted.
- Read the feedback and try again to improve your score.
Speak & Improve Pricing
Speak & Improve is free. The University of Cambridge makes it available to English learners worldwide at no cost.
Who Should Use It?
- English learners practising speaking alone
- Students preparing for Linguaskill or other speaking exams
- Teachers setting speaking homework
- Shy learners who want private practice
- Adults improving English for work
Speak & Improve Alternatives
- ELSA Speak: AI English pronunciation coach on mobile.
- Speak: AI language tutor app for speaking practice.
- Duolingo: Popular language learning app with bite-sized lessons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Speak & Improve free?
Yes. It is a free tool from the University of Cambridge.
Do I need an account?
No. You can start without one, though an account gives you access to more features.
How accurate is the level it gives?
It gives an estimated CEFR level from your answers. Treat it as a guide, since it is not always as accurate as an official exam.