🏆

International Speech Contest

The flagship Toastmasters speaking competition

Speech Timing

Required time: 5–7 minutes

5 min
Green Light
6 min
Yellow Light
7 min
Red Light
7.5 min
DQ Limit

Official Rules

  • 1.Speech must be 5–7 minutes (disqualified under 4:30 or over 7:30)
  • 2.Speech must be original — not used in a previous Toastmasters contest
  • 3.No props unless approved by contest chair
  • 4.All contestants speak on the same topic or individual topics (varies by contest year)
  • 5.Judges score on content, delivery, and language

Winning Tips

  • Start with a strong hook — judges score first impressions heavily
  • Have a clear, memorable message that resonates universally
  • Practice the exact timing — being over is an automatic DQ
  • Tell personal stories to create emotional connection
  • End with a call to action or powerful closing line