Course Finder
Blog
Login

What is the Duolingo English Test? A Complete Guide (2024-25)

Written by  Vishesh Chogtu

Published on Thu, July 21, 2022 5:09 PM   Updated on Tue, January 9, 2024 4:42 PM   18 mins read

Duolingo English Test Validity (DET) lasts upto two years. Duolingo is an application which helps people learn different languages. Duolingo also has an English proficiency test which is designed to specifically help students and Institutions. 

The Duolingo English Test is meant for native and Non-native English speakers.  This examination, like other common English proficiency tests like the TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, looks at a candidate’s four language abilities: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. With every correct response, the test’s difficulty level rises; if you provide incorrect responses, it falls. Candidates can take the exam from their homes at their convenience through Online format, unlike other English proficiency exams that require candidates to visit a Test Center. 

Planning to Study Abroad in 2024? get a shortlist of best universities according to your profile for studying abroad
Planning to Study Abroad in 2024? Get a shortlist of best universities according to your profile for studying abroad

Why choose Duolingo English Test in 2024 to study abroad?

The benefits of taking Duolingo English Test as it is a convenient, affordable, and reliable way to assess English proficiency for academic or professional purposes. The mission of Duolingo English Test is to use technology to lower barriers to higher education for students everywhere. The DET is highly regarded by top universities worldwide and is also a popular choice for students interested in learning foreign languages like French. The following are the benefits of taking the DET:

  • Convenience: The exam can be taken online from anywhere at any time, eliminating the need for travel to testing centers and scheduling appointments.
  • Affordability: Compared to alternative tests like IELTS (INR 16,250) or TOEFL which cost around $205(INR 17,085.09), the DET is significantly cheaper at only $59(INR 4,915.69). This is especially advantageous for candidates who are already facing high expenses like application fees, tuition and more associated with studying abroad.
  • Fast Results: DET scores are available within 48 hours or 2 days of taking the exam, whereas IELTS or TOEFL scores can take up to 4 to 5 days to be delivered.

You should Duolingo English test due to reasons mentioned below: 

  • If you’re stuck in a crisis like a Pandemic or flood or maybe you just don’t have time to visit a Test center to give your exam, you can take the Duolingo test from anywhere and anytime.
  • Duolingo English Tests are widely valid for undergraduate programmes in the USA. However, some colleges have different english proficiency requirements like IELTS or TOEFL.
  • Additionally, you can send Duolingo test scores to as many institutions you like without additional fees, which is not the case with IELTS and TOEFL.
Looking for Scholarships ? Let’s help you secure the best scholarship to fund your study abroad journey
Looking for Scholarships ? Let’s help you secure the best scholarship to fund your study abroad journey

Duolingo English Test: Eligibility and Requirements | 2024

Taking the Duolingo English Test (DET) requires no specific academic qualifications or eligibility criteria. It’s open to anyone wishing to showcase their English language proficiency. Commonly, students who plan to study in English-speaking countries opt for this test, enjoying the flexibility of taking it anytime and anywhere.

Age Limit for the Duolingo English Test

There’s no age barrier to sit for the Duolingo test. Regardless of age, students aspiring to study abroad and prove their English proficiency are eligible. However, candidates below 13 years must have parental consent, which can be given through an online form during registration.

How to Register for the Duolingo English Test | DET 2024 Registration

Registering for the DET is straightforward:

  1. Visit the Duolingo English Test official website.
  2. Sign up using your email.
  3. Select ‘Purchase a Test’ and choose between a single test for $59 or a bundle of two for $98.
  4. For expedited results (within 12 hours), an additional $40 is required.
  5. Complete your purchase by providing your email, nationality, and location, and then process the payment.

2024 Duolingo English Test Dates

To find out about test dates, visit Duolingo’s official site. Duolingo hasn’t set specific dates for the DET, making it available any day of the year. This flexibility is a key advantage over other traditional English language tests. Results, including total and sub-scores along with speaking and writing samples, are available within two days and can be sent to multiple institutions at no extra cost.

How Long Is A Duolingo English Test Result Valid ?

The Duolingo English Test certificate has a two-year validity once you have received the scores. The sole restriction is that you must retake the test within this window to show that your English language proficiency has improved.

So if English is not your first language, you might need to retake the exam. The validity of the Duolingo English test will also vary depending on a number of variables, including how much you prepared for the exam, how your English has improved since then, and if you can pass the test if you retake it.

How to Prepare for the Duolingo English Test in 2024?

To prepare yourself for the Duolingo English Test, you should strive to get better in reading and listening skills. You can practice your English by speaking with a native English speaker, reading articles from journals and newspapers, and listening to English podcasts.

You can also take a practice test to familiarize yourself with the kinds of questions you will encounter on the actual test. On Duolingo’s website, you can take the Mock tests free of cost. Moreover, you are allowed to retake the exam as many times as you like.

Basic requirements for Duolingo English Test – DET 2024

Requirements for the Duolingo English Test

Candidates don’t need academic credentials to take the Duolingo English Test. The only necessity is valid identification documents. For a successful test experience, candidates should ensure they have the necessary hardware and software.

  • Identity cards like your passport, driver’s license or government ID.
  • 60 minutes of free time.
  • A reliable internet connection.
  • A computer.
Planning to Study Abroad in 2024? get a shortlist of best universities according to your profile for studying abroad
Planning to Study Abroad in 2024? Get a shortlist of best universities according to your profile for studying abroad

Structure of the Duolingo English Test | DET Format 2024

The Duolingo English Test is structured in two main parts. Initially, there is a 45-minute adaptive section comprising various questions to assess English proficiency. Following this, there’s a 10-minute segment for Writing and Speaking, featuring open-ended questions.

Breakdown of the DET Test Sections:

  1. Introduction and Setup (5 minutes)
    • Check functionality of computer’s camera, speakers, and microphone.
    • Present a government-issued photo ID.
    • Review and understand test rules and requirements to ensure compliance.
  2. Adaptive Test (45 minutes)
    • Evaluate English skills through a range of question types, including Read and Complete, Read and Select, Listen and Select, among others.
  3. Writing and Speaking Sample (10 minutes)
    • Includes a writing task based on a given prompt, to be completed in 3 to 5 minutes.

SectionSkills TestedDuration
Introduction and Setup– Checking the functionality of the computer’s camera, speakers, and microphone
– Presentation of a government-issued photo ID
– Reviewing and understanding test rules and requirements for compliance
5 minutes
Adaptive Test– Evaluating English skills through various question types such as Read and Complete, Read and Select, Listen and Select, etc.45 minutes
Writing and Speaking Sample– Completing a writing task based on a given prompt, within a 3 to 5-minute timeframe10 minutes

Duolingo English Test Fees 2024

Duolingo English Test Fees is USD 59 (INR 4,915.69). Duolingo English Test Fees is the lowest fees charged for English proficiency certification.

Duolingo English Test Score Range

Duolingo English Test Score Range is 10-60. Your certificate will have a unique secure link. Also Subscores are mentioned which describe your proficiency in a specific area. 

What Is a Good Duolingo English Test Score?

A score of 120 and above on the Duolingo language test is good. Two years after your attempt, the Duolingo score validity will be the same as it would be for any other exam. If you’re unable to score 120 and above then you should practise more and retake the exam.

Check out the table mentioned below for understanding score ranges: 

ScoreDescription
10– 55Can read and understand simple English words, but they have trouble understanding what is written or stated to them.
60–85Can follow simple English sentences but finds it challenging to keep up with what is being spoken or written. has some familiarity with numbers.
90-115Can comprehend a variety of written and spoken languages, both simple and complicated and is able to communicate in straightforward and customary ways.
120- 160Can communicate both orally and in writing using a variety of vocabulary and grammar patterns and possesses a solid command of grammar, especially while writing academic papers.

Sub-Scores of the Duolingo English Test 2024 (DET)

The simplest way to understand Duolingo’s sub-scores is to contrast it with the IELTS rating scheme. Similar to IELTS, the test-language taker’s competency is assessed based on their capacity for reading, listening, writing, and speaking.  

Duolingo’s English test scores analyse a combination of components because in reality these components aren’t used independently to understand the test taker’s command of the language. To answer appropriately when chatting with someone, for instance, you must not just speak but also listen to what they are saying. Because it reveals how well applicants grasp and communicate ideas, this combined testing pattern is a useful tool for assessing proficiency.

The Duolingo English Test sub-scores are as mentioned below in the table :

LiteracyTest takers ability to read and write are judged
ComprehensionTest takers ability to listening and reading is judged
ConversationTest takers ability is judged by 10 minutes video interview
ProductionTest takers ability to write and speak is judged

How to Send Duolingo Test DET Results to International Universities?

To send results to international universities follow these steps: 

  • Use the email address you used to take the test to log in to englishtest.duolingo.com.
  • Click the “SEND RESULTS” button after finding your certified test results by scrolling down.
  • Choose whether you are submitting an application to a university, a secondary school, or another kind of institution.
  • To find an institution, start typing its name into the search box. Then, use the checkbox to indicate the options you want.
  • Don’t forget to include an Application ID if your university uses one!
  • Click “Send.”
Planning to Study Abroad in 2024? get a shortlist of best universities according to your profile for studying abroad
Planning to Study Abroad in 2024? Get a shortlist of best universities according to your profile for studying abroad

Duolingo English Test vs IELTS vs TOEFL | 2024

Duolingo is better than IELTS. Its adaptive format and AI-driven assessment provide a personalized experience. This makes it a flexible and efficient alternative to traditional IELTS testing. On the other hand, IELTS requires a more in-depth knowledge of the language. The Duolingo English Test scores are accepted by top universities for MS around the world.

Here is a detailed comparison between Duolingo English Test, TOEFL, and IELTS to help candidates decide which exam they should take according to their convenience.

DET vs. IELTS vs. TOEFL

HighlightDuolingo English TestIELTSTOEFL
Accepted UniversitiesOver 4500Over 10,000 across 140 countriesMore than 11,000 across 150 countries
Test Charges$59(INR 4,915.69)INR 16,250INR 17,085.09
Mode of TestComputer-BasedComputer Based Test or Paper-Based TestInternet-Based Test (iBT) or Paper-Based Test(PBT)
Exam StructureThree parts – Quick Set up
Adaptive Test – Evaluates Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing
Video Interview
Four sections – Listening
Reading
Speaking
Writing
Three or four sections – Listening
Reading
Speaking (only in iBT)
Writing
Test-booking DurationBook the test slot along with the registrationMaximum 3 months before the test date; minimum 1 week before the test date60-80 days before the exam date
ScoresScore points – on a scale of 10 to 160Band score on a scale of 0 to 9, based on points in each skillScore points – on a scale of 0 to 120
Exam Duration1 hour2 hours 45 minutes2 ½ hours – PBT; 3 hours – iBT
Results2 days2-5 days6 -10 days

Here we have compared both the exams on basic parameters:

Duolingo English Test IELTS
SimpleA bit more complex in comparison to DET
Multiple factors are counted to calculate scoreLess factors are counted to calculate scores
Passing grade is higherPassing grade is lower
Fees = INR 3913Fees = INR 15,500
Looking for Scholarships ? Let’s help you secure the best scholarship to fund your study abroad journey
Looking for Scholarships ? Let’s help you secure the best scholarship to fund your study abroad journey

FAQs

When Do You Receive Your Duolingo English Test Results?

Ans: You’ll receive your Duolingo English Test results within 48 hours.

How many times can we give Duolingo English test?

Ans: The Duolingo exam can be taken as many times as you’d like, but you can only do it twice in a 30-day period.

Is 125 a good score in Duolingo English test?

Ans: Any score above 120 and above is good.

Is DET accepted in Canada?

Ans: In Canada, the Duolingo English test is approved. It is offered at numerous Canadian universities. The Duolingo Test scores are accepted by about 150 universities in Canada. Before submitting your scores, you should thoroughly review the institution’s requirements.

Is Duolingo english test validity in Australia ?

Ans: Yes! The Duolingo English Test is currently accepted by several colleges in nations like Ireland, Australia, the UK, the United States, Canada, and others.

Is Duolingo english test validity in UK?

Ans: You can take the Duolingo English Test online whenever you want, and it only takes an hour. Most UK universities accept the test for admission in September 2024, and results are available in two days.

Tags :
duolingo english test
exam

About the Author & Expert

Avatar

Vishesh Chogtu

Author • 

Related Posts

Comments (0)