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Duolingo

Study-abroad-exams Online (remote at-home)

The Duolingo English Test is an online English proficiency exam taken by Class 12 and college students who plan to study, work, or move abroad. It is designed for undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional applications. The test is adaptive, meaning questions adjust based on the test-taker’s responses, and it can be taken from home on a computer at any time.

Overview expand_more
The Duolingo English Test assesses four key language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It uses a short, efficient format to measure English proficiency for academic and professional purposes. The test is recognized by institutions worldwide, including universities and visa offices, making it a practical alternative to traditional exams like IELTS or TOEFL. Results are available quickly, and the test is accessible to a wide range of candidates.
Eligibility expand_more
The Duolingo English Test has no strict academic or nationality-based eligibility criteria. There is no minimum age requirement, and anyone can register to take the test. It is open to students at all levels, including undergraduate and postgraduate applicants, as well as professionals. The test is suitable for those applying to study abroad or seeking visa approvals.
How to apply expand_more

How to Book a Duolingo English Test 2026?

Duolingo English Test booking is done online. You must first create an account on the Duolingo English Test website, then purchase the test and take it whenever you want.

No documents are required at the time of booking. However, you will need to present the original, updated, and physical Indian passport.

Steps to Book

  1. Go to the official website (englishtest.duolingo.com). Sign up with your email (or log in via Google) and verify your account. Provide basic details like your name, date of birth, and country (select India), target country, etc.
  2. After answering the questions, you will be redirected to your profile. Click on "Purchase a Test."
  3. You will be given 2 options: 1 test or a test bundle consisting of 2 tests. Choose and click on "Continue."
  4. Enter all the required information, like email address, country, state, and card details.
  5. After payment, you will get access to your dashboard to schedule or start the test.
  6. There are no fixed test dates. You can take it anytime, anywhere (as long as you meet tech requirements). Select a date/time within 21 days of purchase.
  7. Before starting, run the free system check on the website. Ensure a quiet room with no one else present.

Duolingo English Test Fees in India 2026

The Duolingo English Test fee in India for 2026 is $59 (approx. 5,520 INR) for a single test. If you buy a bundle of 2 tests, it costs USD $100 (approx. 9,360 INR), making it cheaper per test.

Test Option Fee (USD) Fee (INR approx.)
Single Test $59 5,520 INR
Bundle of 2 Tests $100 9,360 INR

1 USD = 93.60 INR (April 21, 2026).

Duolingo English Test Requirements 2026

No ID is required at the time of registration. A valid Indian passport must be presented to the proctor before the test. Make sure your passport is updated.

Since the test is fully online and remote, there is no need for cancellation or rescheduling. Once you purchase the test, you will have a 21-day window to take it; otherwise, it will expire, and no refund will be provided.

How to Cancel or Reschedule a Duolingo English Test?

There is no need for cancellation or rescheduling. The test is fully online and remote, so you can take it anytime within the 21-day window after purchase.

You must take the test within 21 days of booking, otherwise it will expire. Therefore, make sure you are prepared and time your booking accordingly.

Duolingo English Test Fees in India 2026

The Duolingo English Test (DET) costs USD $59 (approx. 5,520 INR) for a single test in India. This fee includes one certified score report and unlimited sending of results to universities.

Test Option Fees in India 2026 Note
Single test USD $59 (approx. 5,520 INR) Up to 3 attempts allowed for 1 test. Includes certified score report and unlimited university sending.
Bundle (2 tests) USD $100 (approx. 9,360 INR) Cheaper per test compared to single purchase.
Faster Results upgrade (Optional) USD $33 (approx. 3,100 INR) Results delivered within 12 hours.

All fees mentioned above are inclusive of taxes. You will make the payment in USD, and the equivalent amount in INR will be automatically converted by your bank at the prevailing exchange rate.

The Duolingo English Test is cheaper than other English tests like IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE, which cost INR 18,000-19,000. However, it is only accepted by over 6,000 universities.

Payment Methods Available in India

  • Credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover)
  • PayPal
  • UPI payment through Apple Pay, Google Pay

Duolingo English Test Requirements 2026

No document is required at the time of booking a DET test. However, you must meet certain testing requirements while taking the test.

Device and Setup

  • Computer or Laptop: Windows 10+ or macOS 11+ (no tablets or phones).
  • Stable internet: Minimum 2 Mbps upload and download speed.
  • Webcam (720p+), microphone, and speakers (built-in is acceptable).
  • Browser: Latest Chrome is recommended.
  • Quiet, well-lit room: Face the camera; no virtual backgrounds, hats, or extra screens.

During the Test

  • Test duration is 45-60 minutes total.
  • Adaptive format: Questions get harder or easier based on your answers.
  • Includes a setup check, sample questions, and an unproctored video interview of 2 minutes.
  • No breaks are allowed.

ID and Environment

  • Show ID on camera at the start of the test.
  • No help from others is allowed.
  • AI detects eye movement or voices during the test.

How to Cancel or Reschedule a Duolingo English Test

There is no requirement to reschedule or cancel the Duolingo English Test. You can take the test at any time within 21 days of your purchase.

If you are not able to take the test within this time, you will have to purchase another test. No refund will be provided in such cases.

Official Duolingo Refund Policy

  • If your DET fails or you do not receive results within a reasonable time, Duolingo may refund the fees, give you a credit, or work to fix the issue.
  • To qualify, you must report the issue in writing within 24 hours, cooperate with Duolingo's requests, meet all testing requirements, and not be the cause of the problem.
  • Any refund will be limited to the amount you paid for that specific test.

Key Summary

  • The Duolingo English Test provides an affordable and flexible alternative to IELTS and TOEFL for Indian students applying abroad.
  • Booking is fast and requires only an email address and a valid Indian passport.
  • Students can take the test at any time within the 21-day window after purchase, with no scheduling constraints.
  • Results are available within 48 hours, and Duolingo offers unlimited free score reports to universities.

The Duolingo English Test offers a low-cost, flexible at-home option for Indian students, with a 21-day test window and fast results. It is widely accepted for admissions, but visa acceptance varies by country. Always check university and immigration requirements before booking.

FAQs

Ques. Can I use the Duolingo English Test for student visa applications?

Visa acceptance for the Duolingo English Test varies by country. You should check the immigration requirements of your destination country before booking the test.

Duolingo English Test for Visa Applications

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is accepted for university admissions in many countries, but not always for visa applications. Some nations, like Ireland and select US programs, accept DET for visas, while others, such as the UK for visa purposes, may require IELTS or TOEFL instead.

Students should always check the specific visa authority's requirements before applying. Acceptance for admission does not guarantee acceptance for a visa.

Number of Attempts Allowed

You can attempt the Duolingo English Test up to 3 times within 30 days. This limit applies regardless of whether your previous attempts were certified or not.

After the 30-day period ends, the attempt count resets. This means you can take the test again in the next 30-day window.

Fee Waivers and Discounts for Indian Students

Duolingo periodically offers discount codes or fee waivers through partner universities or education fairs. These offers are not guaranteed and depend on ongoing promotions.

Students should follow official DET updates and university newsletters to stay informed about any available discounts. There is no fixed schedule for these offers.

Use of External Devices During the Test

No, you cannot use external devices like Bluetooth headphones during the Duolingo English Test. The DET requires built-in speakers and microphones only.

Using Bluetooth devices, headphones, or external microphones can lead to the test being flagged or invalidated. Ensure your device's built-in audio components are working properly before starting the test.

Exam pattern expand_more

Duolingo Exam Pattern 2026

The Duolingo English Test uses a fully computer-adaptive format. It does not have fixed, skill-based sections for reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

Instead, the test uses integrated question types. The difficulty level of each question changes based on your previous responses. This structure assesses overall English proficiency in a shorter time.

The test is conducted online and takes about 1 hour to complete. It includes an initial setup, a 45-minute adaptive assessment, and a final writing and speaking sample.

The adaptive section measures four skills: literacy, comprehension, conversation, and production. Scores are reported on a scale of 10 to 160. Writing and speaking samples are shared with institutions along with the official scores.

Duolingo English Test Question Types

The adaptive section includes several question types. These tasks test different combinations of reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.

  • Read and Select
  • Fill in the Blanks
  • Read and Complete
  • Listen and Type
  • Complete the Sentences
  • Complete the Passage
  • Highlight the Answer
  • Identify the Idea
  • Title the Passage
  • Listen and Complete
  • Listen and Respond
  • Summarise the Conversation
  • Write About the Photo
  • Interactive Writing
  • Interactive Speaking
  • Speak About the Photo
  • Read, Then Speak

Duolingo English Test Writing and Speaking Sample

The test ends with a writing sample and a speaking sample. These are not scored as part of the main adaptive section.

Both samples are sent to institutions along with your score. They help institutions assess your communication skills directly.

Duolingo Exam Pattern Scoring 2026

Duolingo English Test scores range from 10 to 160. The score is based on your performance in the adaptive section.

Your writing and speaking samples are shared separately. They are not included in the 10 to 160 score range.

Duolingo English Test Preparation Tips 2026

Free practice tests are available for the Duolingo English Test. These sample questions help you understand the format before the actual exam.

Practising with these tests can help you get familiar with the question types and the adaptive nature of the test.

DET Free Practice Tests 2026

Free DET sample questions are available from MyKollege. The table below lists the practice tests.

DET Free Practice Tests 2026
Duolingo English Test Practice 1
Duolingo English Test Practice 2
Duolingo English Test Practice 3
Duolingo English Test Practice 4
Duolingo English Test Practice 5
Duolingo English Test Practice 6
Duolingo English Test Practice 7
Duolingo English Test Practice 8
Duolingo English Test Practice 9
Duolingo English Test Practice 10

Registration for Duolingo English Test

You can register for the Duolingo English Test online. For the 2026 test, check the following details before registering.

  • How to book a Duolingo English Test 2026
  • What is the Duolingo English Test Fee in India for 2026
  • Who is eligible to take the Duolingo English Test

Duolingo English Test Overview

The Duolingo English Test is an adaptive 1-hour exam. It adjusts the difficulty of questions based on your performance during the test.

Instead of a fixed syllabus, the test measures real-world and academic English skills through interactive tasks. The test has 3 parts.

Section Duration Purpose Key Features
Introduction and Setup 5 minutes Equipment check and ID verification Not scored; ensures fair testing
Adaptive Test 45 minutes Assess core proficiency 25-50 adaptive questions; multiple-choice and interactive
Writing and Speaking sample 10 minutes Showcase free responses 2 tasks (1 writing, 1 speaking); video-recorded, unscored

Duolingo Exam Pattern 2026: Question Types

The Duolingo English Test questions are multimedia, using text, audio, and images. They test literacy, comprehension, conversation, and production skills.

There is no fixed number of questions in each type. The table below lists the common question types.

Question Type Description Number of Questions Time Limit
Read and select Pick real English words from a list of real and fake words. 15-18 5 seconds
Fill in the blanks Choose or type words to complete gaps in a short text, focusing on grammar and vocabulary. 6-8 20 seconds
Read and complete Select the best sentence to finish a partial passage logically. 3-6 3 minutes
Listen and type Listen to 1-3 audio sentences and type exactly what you hear. 6-9 1 minute
Complete the sentences Fill gaps in a short text, testing grammar and vocabulary. 2 sets of 6 questions 7-8 minutes
Complete the passage Add words or phrases to blanks in a longer text to convey the overall meaning. 2 sets of 6 questions 7-8 minutes
Highlight the answer Read or listen and highlight key phrases or sentences that answer the question. 2 sets of 6 questions 7-8 minutes
Identify the idea Select the main idea or supporting detail from a passage or audio. 2 sets of 6 questions 7-8 minutes
Title the passage Choose the most suitable title based on the core theme. 2 sets of 6 questions 7-8 minutes
Listen and respond Listen to a prompt and respond verbally in a natural way. 2 sets of 5-6 questions 4 minutes
Summarise the Conversation Listen to a dialogue and write or speak a summary of key points. 2 sets of 5-6 questions 75 seconds
Write About the Photo Describe a shown image in 30-50 words, including people, setting, and action. 3 1 minute
Interactive Writing Step 1: Respond to a written prompt. Step 2: Respond to a follow-up prompt based on your first answer. 1 set of 2 questions Step 1: 5 minutes; Step 2: 3 minutes
Interactive Speaking Simulated conversation with an animated character. 6-8 35 seconds for each question
Speak About the Photo Verbally describe an image for 30-60 seconds. 1 Min 30 seconds; Max 90 seconds
Read, Then Speak Read a short text, then speak about it (summarise or give an opinion). 1 90 seconds

Read and Select

Read and Select asks you to answer, "Is this a real English word?" You will need to read each word and decide if it is an actual word in English.

Tips for this section:

  • Always select either YES or NO. Skipped answers will be marked incorrect.
  • There can be any number of real words, so do not worry if the count varies.
  • Read carefully, as some words may look real but have small differences from actual English words.

Fill in the Blanks

Fill in the Blanks requires you to choose or type words to complete gaps in a short text. This section focuses on grammar and vocabulary.

Fill in the Blanks

Fill in the Blanks asks you to complete a sentence with the correct word. You will read a sentence with one unfinished word and fill in the blanks to complete it.

Tips for this question type:

  • Read the entire sentence before focusing on the incomplete word.
  • Use context clues.

Read and Complete

Read and Complete asks you to type the missing letters to complete the text below. You will fill in the blanks of unfinished words in a passage.

Tips for this question type:

  • Read the entire passage before focusing on individual words.
  • Use context clues.

Listen and Type

Listen and Type asks you to type the statement that you hear. You will listen to a person speaking a statement and then transcribe what you hear.

Tip: Type exactly what you hear first. Replay the statement and compare it to your writing to check your response.

Complete the Sentences

Complete the Sentences asks you to select the best option for each missing word. You will see a passage with several blank spaces and select a word to complete each sentence.

Tips for this question type:

  • Read the entire sentence and use context clues to choose the best word.
  • If you have time, read the full passage after completing all sentences to double-check your answers.

Complete the Passage

Complete the Passage asks you to select the best sentence to fill in the blank. You will see 2 sections of a passage with a missing sentence in the middle.

Tips for this question type:

  • Some parts of the passage may be familiar from the Complete the Sentences question.
  • Read each section carefully, especially any new material.
  • Focus on the sentences before and after the blank, especially if you are unsure.

Highlight the Answer

Highlight the Answer asks you to click and drag the text to highlight the answer to the question below. You will see a question on screen, then find and highlight the answer within the passage.

Tip: Be precise and thorough when selecting your answer. Highlight only what directly answers the question, avoiding too much or too little.

Identify the Idea

Identify the Idea asks you to select the idea that is expressed in the passage. You will select an idea from the list that best represents what you read.

Tip: Read all the options carefully. Some may seem partially relevant, but choose the one that best describes the text.

Title the Passage

Title the Passage asks you to select the best title of the passage. You will select a title from a list of given options.

Listen and Complete

Listen and Complete requires you to listen to a scenario and answer 3-4 fill-in-the-blank questions about it.

Tips for Listen and Complete

  • Write only what is needed to answer the question.
  • Do not include extra or irrelevant information.
  • If you cannot write more, try paraphrasing your response.

Listen and Respond

Listen and Respond asks you to read about a situation and pick the best option to start the conversation. You must select the best response each time it is your turn.

Tips for Listen and Respond

  • Notice the relationship between the speakers. Think about how two students or a teacher and a student would talk.
  • Do not worry if your response is not perfect. The test will guide you, and you can still answer the next questions correctly.
  • Pay attention to the correct answers to follow the conversation.
  • Remember the main ideas for the summary task that comes next.

Summarise the Conversation

Summarise the conversation you just had in 75 seconds.

Tips for Summarise the Conversation

  • Write a complete paragraph, not bullet points.
  • Start with the basic facts: who spoke, what the conversation was about, and the outcome.
  • Use it all the time to summarise the task in detail.
  • If possible, check your spelling and grammar before submitting.

Write About the Photo

Write About the Photo asks you to write a description of the image below for 1 minute. You will see an image on the screen and write a description of it.

Tips for Write About the Photo

  • Do more than just label the image; describe it in detail.
  • The directions ask for one complete sentence, but try to write more. A longer response can show more of your skills.

Interactive Writing

Interactive Writing has two steps. Step 1 is to respond to a prompt in writing for 5 minutes. Step 2 is to answer prompts based on your previous response in writing for 3 minutes.

Tips for Interactive Writing

  • Use all the time available to make your responses as strong as possible.
  • Write as much as you can. Just make sure your English is clear, and the content is relevant to the topic.
  • Follow good writing practices to develop your responses.

Interactive Speaking

In Interactive Speaking, you will answer 6-8 questions in a conversation with an animated character.

Tips for Interactive Speaking

  • Pay close attention to follow-up prompts, as they refer to your previous response.
  • Speak at a natural pace and pronounce your words clearly with proper intonation.

Speak About the Photo

Speak About the Photo asks you to speak about the image below for 90 seconds. In this task, you will talk about an image that appears on the screen.

Speak About the Photo

In this question type, you will see an image and must speak about it. The directions and image appear for 20 seconds before the test moves to the recording screen.

You can click NEXT to go to the recording screen early. You must speak for at least 30 seconds before you can continue.

Tips for Speak About the Photo

  • Describe the image as if you are explaining it to someone who cannot see it.
  • Speak at a natural pace and pronounce your words clearly.
  • Do not worry if you make a small mistake. Just correct yourself and continue speaking.

Read, Then Speak

Read, Then Speak asks you to "Speak about the topic below for 90 seconds." For this question type, you will see a written prompt.

You will speak your response to this prompt for at least 30 seconds.

Tips for Read, Then Speak

  • Speak naturally and clearly, and try to use a variety of words and sentence structures.
  • Make sure your answer covers every part of the question.

DET Writing and Speaking Samples

In the Writing and Speaking section of the test, you will be given a prompt and asked to respond at length. The Speaking sample allows for a 1-3 minute response, and the Writing sample allows for a 3-5 minute response.

For each, directions appear for 30 seconds before recording begins. During this time, you will read and consider the prompt and prepare to respond. You will be able to review your responses to these samples after the test has concluded.

These sections are unscored but are sent to universities along with the score report. They serve a different purpose from the AI-scored adaptive test. The extended speaking and writing tasks allow candidates to demonstrate sustained communication and provide qualitative, human-reviewable evidence rather than contributing to the automated scoring process.

Duolingo English Test Writing Sample

The Writing sample asks you to "Write about the topic below for 5 minutes." You will read a written prompt and write about it for at least 3 minutes.

Tips for the Writing Sample

  • Practice good writing habits. Use different sentence structures and vocabulary, and present your ideas with clear and logical transitions.
  • Leave some time at the end to check your spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
  • The topic of your response will be shared with the institutions that receive your results, so make sure you stay on topic.
  • Think of this task as a short essay. Institutions may use your Writing Sample to learn more about your writing skills.

Duolingo English Test Speaking Sample

The Speaking sample asks you to "Speak about the topic below for 3 minutes." You will read a written prompt and speak at length about it.

Tips for the Speaking Sample

  • Do not look at the timer because it can distract you and affect your speaking.
  • Keep talking until the NEXT button turns blue. If you can, continue speaking a little longer. Then finish your answer naturally and click NEXT to submit.
  • Practice speaking on a topic for 1-3 minutes before the test so you get used to the required length.
  • The Speaking Sample is recorded as a video. The institutions that receive your scores will be able to see you during this response.
  • The topic of your response will also be shared with them. Make sure you stay on topic and try your best to show your speaking skills.

Duolingo Results 2026

The DET uses a fully AI-based scoring system that applies only to the 45-minute adaptive section. It provides 4 subscores for each section on a 10-160 scale.

These reflect performance in specific language areas and are derived from your responses in the adaptive section. From these, 4 integrated subscores are calculated by combining pairs of skills:

Integrated Subscore Skills Combined
Literacy Reading and Writing
Comprehension Reading and Listening
Conversation Speaking and Listening
Production Writing and Speaking

Duolingo English Test Score

The overall score ranges from 10 to 160. It is a holistic measure of your English proficiency.

The overall score is calculated from the Individual Subscores, not from a simple average of the Integrated Subscores. This system gives universities a detailed view of individual skills and a broader picture of overall language ability.

DET Preparation Tips

There is no fixed syllabus for the Duolingo English Test (DET). Regular practice can improve confidence and performance.

Here are some tips to improve your English and get ready for the test:

  • Practice reading short texts to build vocabulary and grammar.
  • Listen to English podcasts or videos to improve comprehension.
  • Speak for 1-2 minutes daily on different topics to build fluency.
  • Take official practice tests to get used to question types and timing.
  • Write short paragraphs regularly to improve clarity and structure.

The Duolingo English Test has a unique, adaptive pattern that measures real-world language skills in just 1 hour. Understanding its structure, question types, and scoring system helps you prepare more efficiently and avoid surprises on exam day.

With its simple setup, affordable fee, and growing global acceptance, the DET provides a convenient pathway for students aiming to meet English proficiency requirements worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Duolingo English Test different from other exams?

The DET is fully online, adaptive, and only takes 1 hour. It changes question difficulty based on your answers and can be taken from home.

Is there a fixed syllabus for the DET?

No, the test focuses on real-life English skills. Questions cover everyday and academic topics instead of a set syllabus.

How soon will I receive my DET results?

Results are usually available within 48 hours after you finish the test.

How many times can I retake the test?

You can take the test twice in 30 days, and there is no lifetime limit.

Are the test questions based on academic topics, or are they more general?

The test questions are general and cover a range of topics, including everyday situations. They may touch on academic themes to assess your ability to use English in academic settings.

Syllabus expand_more
  • Environment Setup (5 minutes): Upload your ID, take a photo, complete a 360° room scan, and run a system check. You must agree to strict rules, such as no earphones and no one else in the room.
  • Adaptive Test (45 minutes): This is the main scored section. Questions become harder if you answer correctly and easier if you get them wrong. Question types include:
    • Read and select: Identify real English words from made-up words. 15-18 questions, 5 seconds each.
    • Identify the idea: Choose the main idea after reading or listening. 12 questions, 7-8 minutes.
    • Interactive writing: Respond to a written prompt, then a follow-up prompt. 2 questions, 3-5 minutes.
    • Read, then speak: Read a short passage and speak about it. 1 question, 90 seconds.
    • Speak about the photo: Describe an image verbally. 1 question, 30-90 seconds.
  • Writing and Speaking Samples (10 minutes): This section is not scored. Your responses are shared with universities exactly as you record them.
Cut-offs expand_more

There are no fixed cut-off scores for the Duolingo English Test (DET). Each institution sets its own score requirement. For top universities accepting DET, the average score is 110-130. The exam is scored from 10 to 160.

Results expand_more

Duolingo English Test Results: Overview

Duolingo results determine your English language proficiency for university admissions, scholarships, and visa applications. The Duolingo English Test (DET) uses an AI scoring system and delivers results quickly, usually within 48 hours of completing the test.

Scores are reported on a 10-160 scale and are aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) levels. CEFR levels are European standards for measuring language proficiency.

DET results include an overall score, individual subscores for 4 language skills, and a Duolingo English Test certificate that can be shared directly with institutions. The test also provides a video interview and writing sample, which are sent along with scores to help universities assess a candidate’s real-world communication ability.

Understanding how the Duolingo English Test scoring works, how results are calculated, and how long scores remain valid is essential for test takers planning to apply to universities that accept DET scores.

How are the DET Scores Calculated?

The DET total score ranges from 0 to 160 in 5-point increments. Since the DET pattern does not have separate sections for speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills, subscores are given on these parameters.

Based on the average of a pair of skills, integrated subscores are calculated. The subscores and their respective pairs of skills are mentioned below:

  • Literacy: Reading and Writing
  • Comprehension: Reading and Listening
  • Conversation: Speaking and Listening
  • Production: Speaking and Writing

These subscores provide a more granular view, helping institutions assess targeted skills. For example, a strong Production subscore might highlight your ability to express ideas effectively.

After these, machine learning algorithms are used to evaluate responses automatically. Factors include:

  • Vocabulary range and accuracy.
  • Grammatical complexity and correctness.
  • Fluency and pronunciation in speaking tasks.
  • Comprehension speed and depth in reading and listening.
  • The test is adaptive, so question difficulty adjusts based on your performance, influencing the final score.

Note: These are only the parameters used for scoring. The actual scoring is done by AI engines trained to replicate human scoring.

DET Score to CEFR Level Conversion

The DET score to CEFR level conversion helps candidates and institutions understand how DET scores compare with internationally recognized language proficiency standards. Since the DET is aligned with the CEFR, this conversion makes it easier to interpret scores for academic admissions and English proficiency requirements.

The table below gives the ranges of DET scores that correspond to each level.

CEFR Level Equivalent DET Score Range
C2 155-160
C1 130-150
B2 100-125
B1 60-95
A1-A2 10-55

DET to IELTS Score Comparison

The DET score to IELTS score comparison provides an approximate alignment between DET scores and IELTS band scores. It allows you to assess whether your DET score meets the English language requirements of institutions that traditionally rely on IELTS results.

Duolingo English Test Score Comparison with IELTS

The table below shows how Duolingo English Test (DET) scores compare with IELTS scores. This helps you understand where your DET score stands in terms of IELTS bands.

DET Score Equivalent IELTS Score
160 8.5-9
150-155 8
140-145 7.5
130-135 7
120-125 6.5
105-115 6
95-100 5.5
80-90 5
65-75 4.5
60 4
10-55 0-4

DET to TOEFL iBT Score Comparison

The DET score to TOEFL iBT score comparison helps applicants understand how DET scores align with one of the most widely accepted English proficiency exams. This comparison is useful for students applying to universities that accept multiple test scores and publish equivalent score ranges.

DET Score Equivalent TOEFL iBT Score
150-160 117-120
135-145 104-113
120-130 87-103
105-115 70-86
90-100 53-69
75-85 35-52
60-70 18-34
10-55 0-17

How to Check Your Duolingo Results

Duolingo result is usually released within 48 hours after finishing the test. At the time of DET booking, you can opt for 12-hour delivery by paying an additional fee of USD $33 (approx. 3,026 INR).

You will receive an email with your result. If you have taken the test multiple times, you can also see and compare all your past scores in your Duolingo account.

Here’s how to check your results:

  • Visit the official Duolingo English Test website.
  • Log in with the email you used to register.
  • Open the “My Tests” section to see your test history and results.
  • Click “Certificate” to download your DET score as a PDF.

Can my Duolingo result be delayed beyond 48 hours?

Yes, results may take longer if the test is flagged for additional review. This is common when there are internet disruptions, unclear video, or unusual test behavior.

How to Send Duolingo Results to Universities

Duolingo allows you to send your DET result to unlimited universities for FREE. This, combined with the lower DET fees of USD $59 (approx. 5,410 INR), makes the test an affordable option for Indian students.

Here’s how to send your scores:

  • Log in to your Duolingo English Test account.
  • Go to the “My Tests” section.
  • Find your certified result and click “Share Score.”
  • Choose the type of institution (university, school, etc.).
  • Search for your university and select it.
  • Add your Application ID if required.
  • Click “Send” to share your Duolingo score.

Will universities see my video interview and writing sample with my score?

Yes, the video interview and writing sample are automatically shared along with your DET scores. Universities use them to assess your real-life speaking and writing ability.

Duolingo English Test Score Report 2026

The Duolingo score report shows your overall score and subscores for each skill. Below, we have explained the overall score and the subscores in detail. Your score report includes the following:

  • Overall score:
    • The overall score is reported on a scale from 10 to 160.
    • The overall scores comprise a general description of what a candidate can do.
    • The overall scores are not the average of the subscores.
  • Subscores:
    • Subscores show your ability in specific English skills.
    • They help evaluate how well you perform in different areas of the language.
    • The subscores are divided into 4 sections, and each is scored on a scale of 10-160.

Why is my Duolingo result marked as “Not Certified”?

A result may be marked “Not Certified” if there are rule violations, such as looking away from the screen, background noise, or technical issues. In such cases, the score cannot be sent to universities.

What is a Good Duolingo Result for 2026?

A good Duolingo result depends on the requirements of the university you are applying to. Most universities specify a minimum DET score for admission, and a higher score improves your chances of acceptance.

What is a Good DET Score?

A good Duolingo English Test (DET) result depends on the requirements of the universities or programs you are applying to. Different institutions have different score expectations.

The table below explains the typical score ranges and what they mean.

Score Range Description
Basic (10-50)
  • Can understand basic English words and phrases.
  • Can grasp simple information and communicate in familiar situations.
Intermediate (55-80)
  • Can understand the main ideas in everyday speech or writing about work or school.
  • Can describe experiences, goals, opinions, and plans, though there may be some hesitation or awkward phrasing.
Upper-Intermediate (85-120)
  • Can achieve most communication goals, even on unfamiliar topics.
  • Can understand the main ideas in both concrete and abstract texts.
  • Can interact with proficient English speakers with relative ease.
Advanced (125-160)
  • Can understand complex written and spoken English, including some specialised situations.
  • Can comprehend implicit, figurative, idiomatic, and pragmatic language.
  • Can use English flexibly and effectively for most social, academic, and professional purposes.

DET Result Validity 2026

Duolingo results are valid for 2 years from the test date.

Is there a time limit for sending scores to universities?

You can send scores anytime after receiving them, as long as your test scores are still valid.

DET Score for Universities Abroad in 2026

As per Duolingo, DET results are now accepted by more than 6,000 institutions worldwide. This includes 95% of the top 100 US News-ranked universities in the US.

Here is a partial list of universities along with their score requirements:

Country University QS World University Ranking 2026 Minimum DET Score Notes
USA Harvard University #=5 140 All programs
USA MIT #=1

UG: 125

PG: 135

STEM-focused.
USA Stanford University #=3 125-140 Not mandatory, but need fluency
USA Yale University #=21 120 Both UG and PG.
Canada University of Toronto #=29 120 overall, 100 in each subscore Engineering and business programs.
Canada University of British Columbia #=40

Overall: 125

Reading: 115

Listening: 115

Writing: 120

Speaking: 120

STEM and environmental sciences.
Australia University of Melbourne #=19 120 DET not accepted for visa.
Germany Technical University of Munich #=22 125+ Equivalent to IELTS 6.5

DET is also accepted by many countries for student visa applications. These include the USA, Canada, and New Zealand.

Note: Always check the university's official admissions page, as some programs, like medicine, law, etc., may have exceptions.

The Duolingo English Test provides a fast, flexible, and widely accepted way to demonstrate English proficiency. With scores available in 48 hours, detailed subscores, and a validity of two years, it allows students to plan and share results efficiently.

FAQs

Can I retake the Duolingo test if I am not satisfied with my result?

Yes, you can retake the test, but there are limits. You can attempt the test up to 3 times in 30 days.

Do universities prefer DET subscores or the overall score?

Most universities focus on the overall score. Some programs, especially STEM and business, may check subscores to assess specific skills.

Will my Duolingo result expire if I don't send it immediately?

No, your score will remain valid for 2 years from the test date. This applies regardless of when you choose to send it to universities.

Can I see which universities accept my DET subscores?

While universities mainly consider the overall score, some may look at subscores. You should check individual university requirements on their official websites.

Duolingo English Test Retake Policy

Yes, you can retake the Duolingo English Test if you are not satisfied with your result. There is a limit on how often you can take the test.

  • You can attempt the test up to 3 times in 30 days.

How Universities Use DET Scores

Most universities focus on the overall score when evaluating your application. Some programs may look at subscores for specific skills.

STEM and business programs are more likely to check subscores. This helps them assess particular abilities relevant to the course.

Duolingo Test Score Validity

Your Duolingo English Test score remains valid for 2 years from the test date. This validity period applies regardless of when you send the score to universities.

You do not need to send your score immediately after receiving it. You can wait until you are ready to apply.

Checking University Requirements for DET Subscores

Universities mainly consider the overall score, but some may look at subscores. You should check individual university requirements on their official websites.

Each institution sets its own policy regarding subscores. The official website is the best source for this information.

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