Duolingo English Test
(International Students)

What is the Duolingo English Test?

The Duolingo English Test is a relatively young test, which has picked up in popularity over the last couple of years. With an increasing number of universities in the U.S. accepting the Duolingo English Test in lieu of TOEFL or IELTS, the test has become a serious option for international applicants to consider.
Because Duolingo scores are still not as widely accepted by colleges as TOEFL or IELTS results, it is not recommendable you go for the Duolingo English test solely. But, it's worth checking schools' international admissions information to see whether Duolingo would be possible.

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Schools Accepting Duolingo

Filter for schools, which offer your sport and accept Duolingo scores instead of TOEFL or IELTS.

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Test format

The entire test takes 60 minutes only, broken down in 3 sections:

  • Quick rules – 5 minutes
    You are evaluated in the realms of reading, writing, speaking and listening
  • Adaptive test - 45 minutes
    Your answers are being recorded to open-ended questions
  • Video interview – 10 minutes

The results are reported on a grading scale out of 160, with 160 being the maximum possible.

Benefits

Compared to TOEFL or IELTS there are 3 obvious advantages:

  • 1. Price
    The test costs 49 USD, which is a fraction of what TOEFL or IELTS costs (200+ USD/test).
  • 2. Quick scoring
    You receive your Duolingo score within 48 hours of testing.
  • 3. Convenience
    You can take the test at home on your computer at any time. Again, saving costs by not travelling to a test center in your country or paying for a hotel night.
    Once you receive your result, you may plan for a second attempt pretty soon thereafter.

Recruiting Advice

In case a college doesn't list the Duolingo English Test as an accepted result, it may be worth asking whether any changes are planned in the near future with regards to international admission policies.

Duolingo registration

As soon as you have decided you want to take the Duolingo English Test, sign up on the Duolingo Website.
The website also features a number of very useful information, such as the FAQ section or a comparison of Duolingo scores to TOEFL or IELTS: Score comparison.

Next Read

Read up on TOEFL, IELTS or any other college entrance exam (SAT or ACT) required for you to start your undergrad degree in the U.S.