Planning to study abroad? Then you’re probably thinking about how to prove your English proficiency. While IELTS and TOEFL have long been the go-to choices, there’s a faster, more affordable, and more flexible alternative that’s gaining recognition: the Duolingo English Test (DET). Designed for convenience and accessibility, the DET allows students to take the exam from the comfort of their own homes with no travel, no test centers and no waiting in line. Whether you’re applying for a university in the US, UK, Canada, or beyond, many institutions now accept Duolingo scores as part of their admissions requirements.
What Is the Duolingo English Test?
The Duolingo English Test is a computer-based assessment that measures your reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in English. The entire process from registration to receiving your results can be completed online. The test takes around 60 minutes to finish, including a short setup, a 45-minute adaptive test, and a final 10-minute section where you provide ungraded writing and speaking samples. These samples aren’t scored but are shared with universities to give them a better sense of your communication style.
Who Can Take It?
There are no academic prerequisites to take the DET, and it’s open to anyone who needs to demonstrate their English proficiency. There are also no nationality restrictions. While there’s no minimum age requirement, students under 13 years of age will need parental or guardian consent to register. This makes it an accessible option for a wide range of applicants, from high school graduates to working professionals.
How to Register and What It Costs?
Registering for the Duolingo English Test is simple. You create an account on the Duolingo English Test website, verify your identity, and take the test whenever you’re ready. The test is available 24/7, so you can schedule it at your convenience. The cost is currently $59, which makes it significantly more affordable than many other English proficiency exams. If you’re in a hurry, you can opt for faster results delivery (within 12 hours) for a small additional fee.
How Is It Scored?
The test uses an adaptive scoring model, meaning the difficulty of each question changes depending on your previous responses. Your final score will be between 10 and 160 and reflects your overall proficiency in English. A score between 90 and 115 usually meets the entry-level requirements for many university programs, while a score of 120 or above is considered strong for most academic and professional purposes. Competitive programs may expect scores in the 125–135 range or higher.
Where and How Often Can You Take It?
You can take the DET entirely online from any quiet, well-lit location. All you need is a computer with a reliable internet connection, a front-facing camera, a microphone, and a valid photo ID. You can retake the test up to three times within a 30-day period, which gives you some flexibility to improve your score if needed.
When Will You Get Your Results?
Your official results are typically available within 48 hours of completing the test. Duolingo also offers a Faster Results option for those who need their scores urgently, this service delivers your results in just 12 hours. Once available, your scores can be sent directly to as many institutions as you like at no extra cost.
How Long Are the Scores Valid?
Duolingo English Test scores are valid for two years from the date you receive them. If you’re applying for multiple programs over time, just be sure your score is still current when you submit your applications.
Duolingo vs IELTS vs TOEFL: Which Should You Choose?
Each test has its advantages. Duolingo stands out for being affordable, quick, and accessible from anywhere. IELTS and TOEFL, while more widely accepted for immigration and top-tier institutions, require visiting a test center and tend to cost more. If your chosen university accepts Duolingo, it could be the most convenient and stress-free option available.
