Describe an Achievement/Success that You are Proud of - IELTS Speaking Actual Test

Success and achievement are deeply personal themes often explored in the IELTS Speaking test because they reveal how candidates reflect on their goals, efforts, and growth. So, while talking about ‘Describe an Achievement/Success that You are Proud of’ you need to show your ability to narrate an experience coherently, use past and present perfect tenses naturally, incorporate motivational and reflective vocabulary, and express your feelings and personal development.

This blog includes Part 1 questions plus two sample answers for ‘Describe an achievement/success that you are proud of,’ to help with how to prepare a cue card for IELTS Speaking. Other than that, we have included some Part 3 questions and sample answers, and relevant vocabulary, so you will be ready for similar topics.

IELTS Speaking Part 1: Common Questions & Band 8+ Answers

The questions asked in IELTS Speaking Part 1 are short and focus on your general attitude toward success, goals, and hard work. Given below are some common questions that you can prepare related to teenagers and achievement. They will guide you on how to respond confidently and naturally using high-level vocabulary.

1 Do you think it’s important to celebrate achievements?

Yes, definitely. Celebrating achievements motivates people and reminds them that their hard work has value. It also inspires others to pursue their goals.

2 Do you prefer working alone or in a team when trying to achieve something?

I prefer working in a team because collaboration helps me learn from others and stay accountable. Achievements feel more meaningful when shared.

3 Do you set goals regularly?

Yes, I do set my daily goals. I believe setting realistic goals gives me a sense of direction and purpose. Without goals, it’s easy to lose focus.

4 What motivates you to achieve your goals?

My biggest motivation is self-improvement. I love seeing progress in my skills and knowing that my efforts are taking me closer to where I want to be.

5 Do you know any teenagers?

Yes, I have a few cousins who are in their teenage years. These millennials know almost everything from social media to the latest trends that are being followed all over the world. I love hanging out with them.

6 What do you think about teenager fashion?

I think teenage fashion is incredible. Over the years, fashion has been associated only with teenagers. But that is not entirely true as fashion is something that has the power to make a difference in people of all ages. Teenagers are highly influential to what they see on social media or TV and tend to follow them.

7 What is the thing you liked most when you were a teenager?

We all must have done something which we wish to do again.  When I was a teenager, I had the freedom to do everything. I enjoyed this privilege. At that stage of life, there were no restrictions and pressures in life. I have had many experiences as a teenager. Most of them are positive.

Describe an Achievement/Success that You are Proud of IELTS Speaking Part 2 Question & Sample Answers

In IELTS Speaking Part 2, you are allotted exactly one minute for preparation before speaking on the given cue card topic. So, explore the sample answers to ‘Describe an Achievement/Success that You are Proud of’ cue card that will help you score better in IELTS Speaking Part 2.

Describe an Achievement/Success that You are Proud of - Sample Answer 1

• What you achieved?

One of the great successes that I have ever achieved in my life was to pass the entrance exam at University of Languages and International Studies.

• When you achieved it?
• What was difficult about achieving it?

This examination took place about 4 years ago. It was so important to me because it fulfilled my dreams of becoming an English teacher in the future. Additionally, this exam required careful preparation throughout the whole period in the high school, so it was quite challenging for me. Before siting for the exam, I had to study around the clock three main subjects: Math, Literature, and English. During the lesson, I paid attention carefully to what the teacher was saying and noted down all the necessary information to learn it by heart. Beside the required class, I also took the extra ones to broaden my horizons and enhance my skills. I pulled out all the stops to do as many assignments as possible to have a good performance in the exam. I also joined some study groups on Facebook where I asked friends for helping me with tricky exercises.

• And explain why you are proud of this achievement.

Finally, my hard work was paid off. I secured a seat at my dream University of Languages and International Studies. This success motivated me to become an English teacher to inspire the students to be passionate about learning English and have a great command of English. So I think that success will come after hard work and determination, and I’m proud of myself passing this vital test.

Describe an Achievement/Success that You are Proud of - Sample Answer 2

• What you achieved?
• When you achieved it?

One of the most meaningful achievements in my life was winning the Best Public Speaker Award during my final year of college. Public speaking has always fascinated me, but I was never confident enough to face a large audience.

• What was difficult about achieving it?

I decided to challenge myself and participate in an inter-college speech competition. The preparation phase was quite challenging, as I had to practice daily, work on my pronunciation, and overcome stage fright. I also watched several TED Talks to enhance my speaking skills and learn how to engage the audience effectively.

The event took place after two months of preparation, and I remember feeling extremely nervous before stepping onto the stage. However, once I began speaking, my passion for the topic—climate change—took over. I delivered my speech with confidence and energy, and to my surprise, I won first place.

• And explain why you are proud of this achievement.

All those hours of hard work finally paid off, and I felt incredibly proud of myself. It wasn’t just about winning a trophy—it was about conquering my fears and believing in my potential. This achievement truly fulfilled my long-held dream of becoming a confident speaker. Today, I’m more passionate than ever about communication and self-expression. This experience taught me that persistence and belief in oneself can turn even the most intimidating goals into possible ones.

List of IELTS Cue Cards Related to ‘Describe an Achievement/Success that You are Proud of’

Given below is a list of the latest IELTS Speaking cue card topics with sample answers related to the topic, ‘Describe an Achievement/Success that You are Proud of’.

• Describe an Academic Success that you Achieved- IELTS Cue Card
• Describe a Success in Your Life – IELTS Cue Card Sample Answers
• Describe a Success Your Friend has had that You are Proud of – IELTS Cue Card Sample Answers
• A Goal You Want To Achieve – IELTS Speaking Sample Answers
• Describe a Person Who Encouraged You to Achieve a Goal – IELTS Speaking Cue Card & Part 3 Questions with Sample Answers

Vocabulary You Can Use For IELTS Speaking Part 3 Questions on Describe an Achievement/Success that You are Proud of 

Let’s explore a list of IELTS vocabulary that has been used in the above sample answers.

Describe an Achievement/Success that You are Proud of IELTS Speaking Part 3 Question & Sample Answers

The IELTS Speaking Part 3 focuses on deeper, analytical questions about success, achievement, motivation, and society’s attitudes toward ambition. You need to use advanced vocabulary and give reasons and examples for your opinions.

So, let us explore some Part 3 questions related to success or achievement and the cue card, Describe an achievement/success that you are proud of.

1 How do people measure success in your country?

In my country, success is often measured by financial stability and career growth. However, many young people now see success as achieving work-life balance and personal happiness, which I think is a more holistic approach.

2 Do you think it’s easier to achieve success today than in the past?

In some ways, yes, achieving success today has become less difficult compared to the past. Technology and education have opened many doors for people. But competition has also increased tremendously, which makes it equally challenging to stand out.

3 How do failures influence people’s ability to succeed?

Failures act as stepping stones to success. They push people to reflect, improve, and come back stronger. Every setback carries a valuable lesson if one is willing to learn from it.

4 Do parents put too much pressure on children to achieve?

Yes, sometimes parents put too much pressure without realising it. Many parents unintentionally make their ambitions a burden for their children. While encouragement is good, excessive pressure can harm confidence and creativity.

5 What are some of the greatest achievements (of teenagers) in the world?

Some of the most outstanding achievements of teenagers worldwide are Climbing Mount Everest, fighting for education and women’s rights, winning the gold medals in Olympics, developing an application, etc.

6 Do you think teenagers should have an aim in life?

Of course! Not only teenagers but everyone should have an aim in their life. Also, they should work hard and try to fulfill their dreams. Some teenagers consider the objective a burden, but this is the best way to start working on it. They should educate themselves about everything at this point in their life so that it will enable them to be successful in their future. In my opinion, a teenager must have a company of good friends who are ambitious and have a desire to do something big in their life. Positive peer pressure will have a tremendous impact on a teenager’s life.

Vocabulary You Can Use For IELTS Speaking Part 2 Questions on Describe an Achievement/Success that You are Proud of 

Given below is the list of words related to the topic, Describe an Achievement/Success that You are Proud of IELTS cue card, that will expand your latest IELTS Speaking vocabulary to boost your score.

To sum up, speaking about your achievements in IELTS is not about boasting; it is about expressing your growth, determination, and values. So, whether your success is academic, personal, or creative, what matters is how you reflect on your journey and how confidently you communicate it. And to achieve that confidence and deliver your story with clarity and sincerity, you need to take up IELTS Speaking practice tests regularly.

Useful Links:

• Celebrating Achievement: IELTS Speaking Part 2 & 3 Sample Answers
• Recent IELTS Topics in IELTS Speaking Tests
• Self-Introduction for IELTS Speaking Test: A Complete Guide
• Common Mistakes to Avoid in the IELTS Speaking Test
• What IELTS Examiners Look for in the Speaking Test?