The Duolingo English Test (DET) emerged as a modern alternative to traditional language proficiency tests like TOEFL and IELTS. DET is a prominent standardized English proficiency assessment like TOEFL, IELTS, and TOEIC but uniquely internet-based. Developed by Duolingo, DET gained traction during the COVID-19 pandemic, finding acceptance in over 5,000 university admissions offices, including prestigious institutions like Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and Yale. Notably, Ireland incorporates DET into its student visa program. Employing an adaptive algorithm, DET tailors the Test’s difficulty to the test taker’s progression.

DET, administered entirely online, offers incomparable convenience and accessibility. Test takers can assess any location with internet connectivity. The test scoring system is between 10 and 160, with proficiency recognized above 120. DET’s adaptive nature ensures that questions align with the test taker’s skill level.

The Test’s appeal lies in its accessibility and rapidity of results. Test takers benefit from the flexibility to take the Test at their convenience, with scores typically delivered within 48 hours. Moreover, DET proves cost-effective compared to alternatives like TOEFL or IELTS.

Format and Structure

Following are the Duolingo English Test (DET) format and structure:

Test Length: The Duolingo English Test (DET) typically requires about 1 hour of uninterrupted free time.

Adaptive Testing: The Duolingo English Test is mainly characterized by adaptive testing, distinguishing it from traditional assessments. This adaptive approach involves several unique features:

1. Varying Difficulty: Throughout the Test, some questions dynamically change in difficulty. The difficulty level of questions may fluctuate, presenting a mix of easier and more challenging items. Such variability is a normal aspect of the Test.
2. Adaptive Length: The number of test questions varies for each test taker. The Test adapts by administering more or fewer questions based on the grading engine’s confidence in the test taker’s proficiency level. This adaptive length ensures that the Test accurately reflects the individual’s English language skills.
3. Unique Experience: The Test draws questions from an extensive pool, minimizing the likelihood of encountering the same question twice, even upon repeated test attempts. It ensures a unique testing experience for each test taker, enhancing the fairness and reliability of the assessment process.

Test Setup

Upon beginning the Duolingo English Test, test takers will receive guides through three distinct sections:

Introduction and Onboarding (~5 minutes):

• Test takers are prompted to ensure that their computer’s camera, speakers, and microphone function properly.
• Submission of a government-issued photo ID is mandatory for identity verification.
• Test takers review the test rules and requirements before proceeding further.

Adaptive Test (~45 minutes):

• This section measures the test taker’s English language skills through various question types.
• Questions dynamically adjust in difficulty based on the test taker’s performance, ensuring a personalized assessment experience.

Writing Sample and Speaking Sample (~10 minutes):

• Test takers are presented with prompts and asked to provide extended responses.
• The Speaking Sample allows for a 1–3 minute oral response, while the Writing Sample allows a 3–5 minute written response.
• After completing the test, test takers can review their responses to these samples. Institutions that receive the test taker’s results will also receive these samples for further evaluation.

Accessibility and Convenience

One of DET’s key advantages is its online delivery format, which eliminates the need for test takers to visit physical testing centers. Test takers can complete the exam from home, using a computer with a reliable internet connection and a webcam. This accessibility aspect significantly reduces logistical barriers, making the Test available worldwide to more individuals. Additionally, the adaptive technology used in DET enhances the Test’s convenience by optimizing the test duration based on the test taker’s performance, ensuring an efficient yet comprehensive assessment.

Duolingo Question Types and Frequency

Question types in the Duolingo English Test (DET) vary in frequency throughout the test, providing a unique testing experience for each individual. Here’s an overview of the approximate frequency of each question type:

1. Read and Select: 15-18 questions
2. Fill in the Blanks: 6-9 questions
3. Read and Complete: 3-6 questions
4. Read Aloud: 3-6 questions
5. Listen and Type: 6-9 questions
6. Interactive Reading: 2 sets of 6 questions
7. Interactive Listening: 2 sets of 5-6 questions
8. Write About the Photo: 3 questions
9. Interactive Writing: 1 set of 2 questions
10. Listen, Then Speak: 2 questions.
11. Speak About the Photo: 1 question
12. Read, Then Speak: 1 question
13. Writing Sample: 1 question
14. Speaking Sample: 1 question

Note: The actual number of each question type may vary for each test and test taker.

Scoring Procedure and Criteria of the Duolingo Test

Following is the procedure that Duolingo uses for scoring the tests:

Question types with correct answers:

• Various question types, such as Read and Complete, Fill in the Blanks, and Listen and Type, undergo automatic grading using specialized procedures tailored to each question type.
• These procedures compare your responses to correct answers and assess similarities and differences to determine scores.

Partial Credit for Incorrect Answers:

• Encouragingly, incorrect responses do not incur additional penalties compared to skipping questions. Partial credit is awarded even if the response is not entirely accurate.
• For instance, in Read and Complete, the score remains consistent whether the response is left blank or incorrect. Similarly, Listen and Type penalizes more for missing words than mistyping.

Open Response Question Evaluation:

• Open response question types like Summarize the Conversation and Write About the Photo undergo evaluation by a grading engine.
• Like expert human raters, the grading engine assesses various aspects, including content relevance, coherence, linguistic diversity, grammar, fluency, and pronunciation.

Evaluation Criteria:

• Content: Relevance, style, development, and impact on the reader.
• Discourse coherence: Clarity, cohesion, progression of ideas, and structure (specific to writing questions).
• Lexis (vocabulary): Lexical diversity, sophistication, word choice, formation, and spelling (specific to writing questions).
• Grammar: Complexity, accuracy, and punctuation (specific to writing questions).
• Fluency (specific to speaking questions): Speed, natural pauses, filler word usage, and speech flow.
• Pronunciation (specific to speaking questions): Intelligibility, individual sounds, stress, and intonation.

Understanding Test Score

Understanding your Duolingo English Test (DET) scores is crucial for interpreting your language proficiency. Upon completion of the test, you will receive an email notification once your scores are ready for review. Accessing your score report is simple; you can log in to your account at englishtest.duolingo.com to view your scores.

Your score report will display both your overall score and subscores. The overall score reflects your proficiency on a scale from 10 to 160 in 5-point increments, aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for language proficiency. Additionally, subscores provide insights into your performance across specific language components. It’s essential to understand that different institutions may have varying admissions thresholds, so consulting the respective university’s website is advisable.

What sets DET apart from other tests is its use of subscores, which offer a more nuanced understanding of language proficiency. While traditional tests assess individual language skills separately, DET recognizes the interconnectedness of reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Subscores are calculated independently, reflecting the weighted contributions of each skill component. This holistic approach mirrors real-life language use, particularly in academic contexts where integrated skills are essential.

The validity period of DET scores is two years. To maintain the integrity of test results, scores can only be sent through your online account. If you wish to retake the test after receiving certified results, you can purchase another test. However, please note that three test purchases are limited to 30 days. Understanding the intricacies of DET scores empowers test takers to make informed decisions regarding their language proficiency and academic pursuits. 

How to Share Your Test Result?

After receiving your Duolingo English Test (DET) test results, the next step is to share them with institutions or organizations. You’ll receive an email notification upon certification and readiness of your results. Log in to your Duolingo English Test account to send your official scores. Certified test results will be displayed within the “Your Tests” section on your homepage. Select the “Send Results” button from there for the desired test. Follow the prompts to choose the institutions you wish to share your results with and confirm your selections. You can view a video demonstration of the test-sharing process on our website at englishtest.duolingo.com/applicants. The good news is that you can send certified test results to unlimited institutions at no additional cost. As results are sent electronically, there’s no need for mailing, and institutions can access them immediately upon receipt.

Institutions typically utilize the Duolingo English Test scores to gauge English proficiency for admissions or placement purposes, similar to other English proficiency tests. Many institutions set minimum score thresholds, so checking each university’s website for their specific requirements is essential. In addition to the overall score and subscores, institutions gain insight into your candidacy through your extended Writing Sample and Speaking Sample. These samples provide a glimpse into your unique personality and English proficiency level. As a video recording, the Speaking Sample allows institutions to both see and hear you, offering a more comprehensive assessment of your communication skills. Institutions often view these samples as an opportunity to understand you as a candidate better and evaluate your English ability. It’s crucial to perform your best in these sections to make a favorable impression as an applicant.

Duolingo Test Preparing General Tips

To excel in English and prepare for the test, immerse yourself in the language as much as possible. Here are practical tips to enhance your Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening skills:

Speaking:

• Engage in self-talk in English, describing your activities or thoughts aloud.
• Repeat phrases from English movies or videos to refine pronunciation.
• Seek online resources for assistance with challenging sounds.

Writing:

• Write your shopping lists or daily tasks in English.
• Use an English keyboard on your devices to practice texting and social media interactions.
• Participate in English-speaking online communities and practice writing responses.

Reading:

• Explore English blogs, social media accounts, and groups.
• Read English articles and news to enhance comprehension.
• Dive into English books or ebooks, starting with familiar topics or favorite translated works.

Listening:

• Listen to English music, paying attention to lyrics for language comprehension.
• Watch English shows or movies with English audio and subtitles.
• Explore English podcasts or apps covering various topics of interest.

By combining these practices into your routine, you’ll prepare for the test and build confidence in using English in everyday situations.

Exploring TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

Origins and History

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) has been a cornerstone of English language proficiency assessment for decades. Developed by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), TOEFL was initially introduced in 1962 to evaluate the English language skills of non-native speakers seeking to study or work in English-speaking environments. Since then, TOEFL has undergone several revisions to enhance its validity, reliability, and relevance to contemporary language learning needs.

TOEFL Reliability and Credibility

The TOEFL serves multiple purposes. Universities worldwide rely on TOEFL scores to ensure students own the necessary language skills to succeed in their academic programs. Similarly, professionals seeking international opportunities may need to demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL scores.

According to the ETS official report, more than 11,500 colleges, universities, and licensing agencies rely on and accept TOEFL scores. These institutions come from 160 countries worldwide. The TOEFL Test is widely accepted by governments, as well as by scholarships and exchange programs worldwide.

Test Format and Sections

TOEFL comprises four sections: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. Each section assesses specific language skills necessary for academic and professional success in English-speaking contexts.

• Reading: 20 questions, 35 min.
• Listening: 28 questions, 36 min.
• Speaking: 4 tasks, 16 min.
• Writing: 2 tasks, 29 min.

Scoring System and Evaluation Criteria

TOEFL scores are reported on a scale of 0 to 120, with separate scores for each section. ETS employs rigorous scoring criteria to ensure the consistency and accuracy of score reporting. The speaking and writing sections are evaluated by trained human raters based on predefined rubrics, while computer algorithms score the reading and listening sections. This combination of human and automated scoring mechanisms enhances the reliability and fairness of TOEFL scores.

Test Center-Based Administration

Unlike DET, TOEFL is typically administered at designated test centers worldwide. Test takers must register for specific test dates and locations, with limited flexibility in rescheduling options. While the test center-based administration ensures standardized testing conditions and security measures, it may pose challenges for individuals residing in remote or underserved areas with limited access to testing centers.

What is IELTS (International English Language Testing System)?

History and Evolution

Since its inception in 1989, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) has evolved into one of the most widely recognized English language proficiency tests globally. Developed through a collaboration between the British Council, IDP Education, and Cambridge Assessment English, IELTS was initially designed to assess the English language skills of individuals seeking to immigrate to English-speaking countries or pursue higher education abroad.

IELTS Reliability and Credibility

The IELTS is one of the most reliable tests in the world, administered in over 270 exam sites across over 110 countries. With a satisfactory score on this Test, you can apply for educational immigration. This Test, administered by Cambridge University, the British Cultural Council, and the Australian IELTS Centre, can be used at universities such as Cambridge, Oxford, and Harvard. The IELTS scoring system spans from 0 to 9.

Test Structure and Formats

IELTS comprises four sections, similar to TOEFL: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. However, the test format and content differ slightly between the IELTS’s Academic and General Training versions. The Academic version is intended for individuals applying to universities or professional organizations, while the General Training version suits those seeking employment opportunities or immigration purposes. Both versions of IELTS assess a range of language skills, including comprehension, communication, and writing proficiency.

Scoring System and Band Descriptors

IELTS scores start from zero to a nine-band scale, with each band corresponding to a specific level of English proficiency. The scoring system provides detailed band descriptors for each skill area, allowing test takers and institutions to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the test taker’s language abilities. IELTS employs trained examiners to assess the speaking and writing sections, ensuring consistent and reliable evaluation based on established criteria.

Worldwide Test Centers and Scheduling Options

Like TOEFL, IELTS is administered at authorized test centers in various countries and regions worldwide. Test takers can choose from multiple test dates throughout the year, offering flexibility in scheduling based on their preferences and availability. Additionally, IELTS offers a paper-based and computer-delivered format, providing test takers with options to select the mode of delivery that best suits their needs and preferences.

Comparable Table of Duolingo, TOEFL, and IELTS

Score Comparison:

The table below shows the correlation between the Dounligo scores and TOEFL, IELTS, and CEFR.

This table represents the correlation between the Duolingo English Test scores and the TOEFL iBT®.

Duolingo English Test	TOEFL iBT®
10-60	0-23
65	24-29
70	30-34
75	35-40
80	41-46
85	47-52
90	53-58
95	59-64
100	65-69
105	70-75
110	76-81
115	82-86
120	87-92
125	93-97
130	98-103
135	104-108
140	109-112
145	113-116
150	117-118
155	119
160	120

This table represents the correlation between scores in the Duolingo English Test and the IELTS® Academic:

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

This table represents the correlation between scores in the Duolingo English Test and the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR ®):

Duolingo	CEFR Level
10-55	A1-A2
60-95	B1
100-125	B2
130-150	C1
155-160	C2

General Comparsion

The table below shows the Dounligo aspects differentiation with TOEFL and IELTS:

Aspect	Duolingo	TOEFL	IELTS
Purpose	Language learning platform	English proficiency test	English proficiency test
Skills Tested	Reading, writing, listening, speaking	Reading, writing, listening, speaking	Reading, writing, listening, speaking
Test Format	Online platform with various exercises	Computer-based or paper-based	Paper-based or computer-based
Scoring	160-120 score range	0-120 score range	0.0-9.0 band score
Test Duration	60 Minutes	Approximately 3-4 hours	Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes
Test Sections	Reading, listening, speaking, writing	Reading, listening, speaking, writing	Reading, listening, speaking, writing
Test Availability	Available anytime, anywhere with internet access	Offered frequently throughout the year	Offered frequently throughout the year
Test Preparation	Provides its preparation material	Preparation books online resources are available	Preparation books online resources are available
Recognized by	5000+ institutions worldwide	11,500 colleges, universities, and licensing agencies worldwide	12,000 organizations in over 140 countries around the world
Test Cost	Generally cheaper compared to TOEFL and IELTS ($59)	Varies depending on location and format (USD 230)	Varies depending on location and format (USD 260)
Validity Period	The score is valid for 2 years	The score is valid for 2 years	The score is valid for 2 years

Conclusion

In conclusion, when considering language proficiency tests such as the Duolingo English Test (DET), TOEFL, and IELTS, it is essential to weigh various factors to determine the right path for your needs. The emergence of DET as a modern alternative to traditional tests offers a convenient, accessible, and cost-effective solution for assessing English proficiency. Developed by Duolingo, DET gained widespread acceptance, including recognition from prestigious universities and institutions worldwide. Through its adaptive algorithm, DET offers a flexible testing experience tailored to individual skill levels.

On the other hand, TOEFL and IELTS, long-standing assessments, have established credibility and reliability in evaluating English language skills, with wide acceptance among universities, organizations, and governments globally. TOEFL, developed by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and IELTS, a collaboration between the British Council, IDP Education, and Cambridge Assessment English, provide comprehensive evaluations across reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, with scores recognized by thousands of institutions worldwide.

Each test offers unique advantages and considerations. While DET stands out for its online delivery, adaptive testing, and rapid score reporting, TOEFL and IELTS provide standardized testing experiences at designated centers with well-established scoring systems and worldwide recognition.

Ultimately, the choice between DET, TOEFL, or IELTS depends on various factors, including test availability, preferred testing format, institutional requirements, and personal preferences. It’s crucial to carefully research and consider these factors to select the test that best aligns with your goals and circumstances. Whether opting for DET’s convenience, TOEFL’s established reputation, or IELTS’s global recognition, thorough preparation and understanding of each test’s format and scoring criteria are essential for success.

Similar Opportunities:

• What are The Differences and Score Comparisons Between IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo?
• The Top 15 Online Courses for Students from Afghanistan and Abroad are Available Today!
• How to Learn Python: An Expert Guide for 2025
• 12 Efficient Ways to Run a Non-profit Like a For-Profit Company

To find more amazing opportunities and blogs, kindly refer to Scholarships.af’s website.