What do you know about the Duolingo English Test?

Therefore, in this article, we’ll take you on a comprehensive journey to learn about the Duolingo English Test, its significance, and how to pass it successfully. Stay with us to discover more details.

• What is the Duolingo English Test?
• Why Do Students Choose the Duolingo Test?
• Test Structure: Overview of Sections and Question Types
• Preparing for the Duolingo Test: Your Ultimate Success Guide
• Where Can You Use the DET Certificate?
• How Does Duolingo Compare to Other Tests?
• Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Duolingo English Test?

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a modern digital assessment used to measure a person’s English language proficiency. It is known for its accessibility online and flexibility to suit individual needs. You can access the test from home using a computer, but it must have a camera and microphone. No prior appointment is required to take the test.

Currently, the Duolingo certificate is recognized by over 5,500 educational institutions, including Harvard, Stanford, and MIT. However, you should check whether your target institution accepts Duolingo. The certificate serves as a strong alternative to other English language tests. People often compare Duolingo with TOEFL and IELTS — a comparison we’ll explore later in this article.

Why Do Students Choose the Duolingo Test?

Many students today prefer the Duolingo test format for several reasons:

1. It can be taken from anywhere at any time — no need for testing centers or scheduled appointments.

2. The test costs only around $49, making it an affordable option for many.

3. Test-takers receive their results within just 48 hours, allowing for faster university applications.

4. Recognition of the Duolingo certificate continues to grow worldwide.

5. The test uses an adaptive system that adjusts question difficulty based on your answers — providing an accurate skill assessment.

6. You can send your results to an unlimited number of institutions without paying extra fees — unlike other tests that charge additional fees.

With all these advantages, many students find Duolingo to be an ideal choice for proving their English proficiency. You can also get help from a certified English tutor by visiting the Modarby platform.

Test Structure: Overview of Sections and Question Types

Before comparing Duolingo with TOEFL or any other test, you must understand the structure of the Duolingo exam:

1. The first 5 minutes are dedicated to identity verification, equipment checks, and explaining test rules.

2. The next 45 minutes assess reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills through a variety of adaptive questions.

3. The final 10 minutes involve a writing and speaking section, requiring a short essay and a recorded video — both sent to institutions with your score.

The test includes 19 types of questions such as selecting correct words, completing missing words, listening, reading aloud, describing pictures, talking about images, reading texts and answering questions, listening to conversations and answering, writing essays, and speaking on specific topics.

It’s crucial to prepare well and practice all question types to achieve a high score. Scores range from 10 to 160, divided into four sub-skill areas: reading and writing, listening and reading, speaking and listening, speaking and writing. Results are released within 48 hours.

Preparing for the Duolingo Test: Your Ultimate Success Guide

Here are some tips to help you succeed in the Duolingo exam:

1. First, understand the test structure thoroughly so you can create a strategy. Familiarize yourself with all question types.

2. Focus on developing language skills — vocabulary, listening, writing, and speaking.

3. Take multiple practice tests on the Duolingo website to get used to the format and time management.

4. Choose a quiet environment, and ensure all your tools and internet connection are functioning properly.

5. For speaking and writing questions, try to talk or write as much as possible within the time limit to showcase a broader range of skills.

6. After each practice test, evaluate your performance to identify and improve weak areas. This step is vital for passing the test on your first attempt.

Where Can You Use the DET Certificate?

The Duolingo certificate is widely used to prove language proficiency, particularly in academic settings. Its uses include:

1. Academic purposes: Accepted by over 5,500 institutions including top universities in the US, Canada, the UK, Europe, and Australia. Required scores typically range from 100 to 135, depending on the university and program.

2.Visas and immigration: Accepted as part of student visa applications in some countries like Ireland and the UK.

3. Employment: Some companies accept the certificate as proof of language skills, especially for international communication roles.

4. Education programs and scholarships: Used when applying for scholarships and academic programs.

5. Accreditation: Recognized by more than 2,000 universities in the U.S. alone, and accepted in over 50 countries worldwide.

It’s essential to meet the full technical requirements (camera, microphone, internet) — any deviation might affect your results. Also, confirm whether your target institution accepts the certificate.

How Does Duolingo Compare to Other Tests?

Many students ask for a comparison between Duolingo, TOEFL, and IELTS. Here’s a simplified breakdown:

Duolingo: Duration is about 60 minutes, cost is around $70. It’s taken online from anywhere. Results arrive in 48 hours. Accepted by over 5,500 institutions. Scored on a scale of 10–160. Valid for two years. Recognition is growing, especially in the US.

TOEFL: Lasts about 2 hours. Costs between $150–$300. Taken at test centers or online. Results in 4–8 days. Accepted by over 11,000 institutions. Scored 0–120. Valid for two years. Widely recognized worldwide, with fixed testing dates and locations.

IELTS: Takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes. Costs around $250. Administered in test centers or online. Results in 3–13 days. Accepted by more than 12,000 institutions. Scored 0–9. Valid for two years. Also globally recognized, with fixed schedules and locations.

Don’t base your choice solely on this comparison — check your target institution’s requirements and reasons for needing a language certificate.

In conclusion, Duolingo has become a recognized option for proving English proficiency. Ensure all exam requirements are met to earn the certificate. You can also visit Modarby to find a certified English tutor to help you achieve this goal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the Duolingo Test cost?

As of 2025, the individual test costs $70. A bundle of two tests costs $118 (i.e., $59 per test). If you need results within 12 hours, you can pay an additional $40.

How do I take the Duolingo Test?

First, visit the official website and create an account. Complete your profile, purchase the test, and pay the fee. You have 21 days to take the test. You need a computer with a stable internet connection, a front-facing camera, a microphone, and working speakers. Use an updated browser and take the test in a quiet environment. Log in 15 minutes early, follow all instructions, present valid ID, and complete the test in 60 minutes. You must not wear headphones or any other devices, and your face and ears must remain visible. Stay within the test window and do not use any aids or speak unless prompted.