telc B1 Speaking Partner and Individual Examination
Last updated: August 2026 · 8 min read
telc B1 speaking normally uses a two-candidate pair examination. You do not have a right to choose your partner; the centre forms the groups. An individual examination is permitted when only one candidate or an odd number attends.
Who assigns the partner?
The current administration rules say the examination manager decides the groups, as randomly as possible, and announces them shortly before the exam. A request to sit with a friend is not an entitlement.
The centre chooses the suitable grouping to protect standardisation and security.
When is an individual exam allowed?
The official B1 mock permits it when only one person registers. Current general rules also allow one individual sitting when the total candidate count is odd.
Two licensed examiners remain present, and one takes the part of the second conversation partner.
Does assessment change?
No. The same four criteria apply: expression, task fulfilment, formal accuracy and pronunciation/intonation. You receive points only for your own performance.
Natural interaction still matters: ask questions, react to suggestions and develop the exchange.
If your partner struggles
- Do not finish their answer; ask an open question.
- Politely request repetition or clarification.
- Do not dominate the conversation.
- An examiner may prompt with open questions if the exchange stops completely.
Official sources
Dates, timings, scores and procedures were checked against the primary sources below.
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