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Duolingo

Duolingo English Test β€” Complete Guide

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is an innovative, affordable English proficiency test taken entirely online from home. It is accepted by over 5,000 universities and institutions worldwide and is a popular choice for students who need fast, flexible results.

Why Duolingo is important

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University Admissions

DET is now accepted by thousands of universities across the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and beyond β€” including many top-ranked institutions.

  • Accepted by 5,000+ universities and institutions globally
  • Score requirements typically range from 100 to 130
  • A higher score (125+) opens doors to the most competitive programmes
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Visa Approval

DET is accepted for student visa applications in the USA, Canada, and the UK. Check current requirements with your destination country's immigration authority.

  • Accepted for US student visa applications at many institutions
  • Growing acceptance in Canada and UK visa programmes
  • Always verify with your specific institution and visa category
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Convenience

Take the test from home, any time, with results in 48 hours. No test centres, no travel, no waiting weeks for scores.

  • Available 24/7 β€” test at a time that suits you
  • Results delivered within 2 days of completing the test
  • Share your results with unlimited institutions for free
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Affordability

At USD $65 (approx. AUD $100), DET costs significantly less than IELTS or PTE, with no hidden fees for sending score reports.

  • Costs a fraction of traditional English tests
  • Free to share scores with unlimited institutions
  • Retake fees are also low β€” no major financial risk

Duolingo test format

Section
Duration
Questions
Adaptive Questions
45 min
Varies
Reading, writing, listening, and speaking questions that adapt to your level in real time
Video Interview
10 min
2 prompts
Recorded speaking responses to open-ended prompts, reviewed by Duolingo
Writing Sample
5 min
1 prompt
A short written response β€” shared with institutions but not scored on the main scale

Duolingo scoring

145–160
Advanced
Equivalent to IELTS 8.0–9.0; required by top institutions
120–144
High
Equivalent to IELTS 7.0–7.5; meets most university requirements
105–119
Upper Intermediate
Equivalent to IELTS 6.5; accepted by many universities
85–104
Intermediate
Equivalent to IELTS 5.5–6.0; meets basic entry requirements

Exam fees

USD $65 (approx. AUD $100)

One of the most affordable English tests available. Score reports can be shared with unlimited institutions at no additional cost.

How to prepare for Duolingo

1
Use the official Duolingo practice test
Duolingo provides free practice tests on their website. This is the best way to understand what real questions look like.
2
Practise writing quickly and clearly
The test rewards clear, grammatically correct responses written under time pressure. Short daily writing practice pays off significantly.
3
Speak naturally for the video interview
The video interview is reviewed by humans. Speak clearly, give complete answers, and maintain eye contact with the camera.
4
Build core English skills
DET is adaptive β€” it tests your underlying English ability more than test strategies. Reading widely and writing regularly is the best long-term preparation.
5
Check institution-specific requirements
Some universities accept DET only for certain programmes or levels. Always confirm DET is accepted before relying on it for your application.

Frequently asked questions

Is Duolingo accepted in Australia?
DET acceptance in Australia is growing but not yet universal. Many Australian universities accept it, but some still require IELTS or PTE. Always confirm with your specific institution before taking the test.
How long is a Duolingo score valid?
Duolingo English Test scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.
Can I retake the Duolingo test?
Yes. You can retake the DET after a 30-day waiting period if you are not happy with your score.
How secure is the at-home test?
The test uses AI-powered proctoring that monitors your environment, eye movements, and audio. Results are reviewed by Duolingo staff before being certified and sent to institutions.

Find a consultancy offering Duolingo preparation

Filter by location or search by name to find the right consultancy for you.

12 consultancies found
Afterschool.my Education Consultants
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
β˜…4.7(6 reviews)
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ABN Overseas
Lahore, Pakistan
β˜…4.0(1 review)
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Edwise Foundation Nepal
Kathmandu, Nepal
β˜…5.0(1 review)
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The Next Education Consultancy
Kathmandu, Nepal
β˜…5.0(1 review)
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ARSA Study Consultants
Islamabad, Pakistan
β˜…5.0(1 review)
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360 Education Biratnagar
Biratnagar, Nepal
β˜…4.0(1 review)
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StudyCo Nepal
Kathmandu, Nepal
β˜…5.0(1 review)
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Study World Education Consultancy
Kathmandu, Nepal
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Options Education Agency
Nairobi, Kenya
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A.D. Max International Education Consultancy Birgunj
Birgunj, Nepal
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Studylane International
Kathmandu, Nepal
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Learn Next Education Consultancy
Kathmandu, Nepal
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