The Duolingo English Test (DET) is an online, computer-adaptive English proficiency test designed to evaluate reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. It is convenient, affordable, and provides results in about 2 days. The test lasts about 60 minutes and has three parts: a 45-minute adaptive test, a 10-minute writing and speaking sample, and a video interview section. The score ranges from 10 to 160, with scores above 120 indicating proficiency in English.
Key details about the test format include:
Adaptive questions that adjust in difficulty based on your answers.
Multiple skills are tested: reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
The writing sample requires writing on a given topic within 5 minutes (minimum 50 words).
The speaking sample includes answering open-ended questions.
The video interview allows test-takers to respond to open questions.
The DET is increasingly accepted by universities worldwide and can be taken anytime online without appointments. It is seen as an accessible alternative to traditional tests like TOEFL or IELTS, especially since it allows flexible scheduling and rapid results. Preparation involves getting familiar with the test format, practicing vocabulary, time management, and speaking skills.
This test is officially endorsed by several universities and is also accepted for student visa purposes in some countries like Ireland. However, some prestigious universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, and Lancaster currently do not accept the DET.
For preparation, it is recommended to:
Understand the test format well.
Improve vocabulary through reading and listening practices.
Practice with mock tests to improve accuracy and speed.
Do writing and speaking exercises on common topics.
Use free and paid practice resources available online.
Test Format
The DET lasts 60 minutes and includes an adaptive section (45 minutes) that adjusts question difficulty, a 10-minute writing/speaking sample, and a video interview. It features varied tasks like fill-in-the-blanks, real-world conversations, describe-image prompts, interactive reading, writing samples (50+ words in 5 minutes), and open speaking responses. No fixed syllabus exists; it mirrors everyday and academic English usage.
Scoring and Equivalents
Scores report overall proficiency plus subscores in literacy, comprehension, conversation, and production, mapped to CEFR levels (e.g., 120 = B2). The table below compares DET to TOEFL iBT and IELTS:
| TOEFL iBT (0-120) | IELTS (0-9) | DET (10-160) | CEFR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 120 | 8.5-9 | 160 | C2 |
| 113-116 | 7.5 | 145 | C1 |
| 93-97 | 6.5 | 125 | B2 |
| 59-64 | 5.5 | 95 | B1 |
| 1-16 | 1-3.5 | 10-50 | A1-A2 |
Adaptive Test
This core graded section features 20-40 questions across multiple types, dynamically increasing or decreasing in difficulty. Common question types include:
| Question Type | Skills Tested | Response Time | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Read and Select | Literacy, Comprehension | 1 min | Identify real English words from nonsense. |
| Read and Complete | Literacy, Comprehension | 3 min | Fill missing letters in sentences. |
| Fill in the Blanks | Vocabulary, Spelling | Varies | Complete gaps in text. |
| Listen and Type | Comprehension, Listening | 1 min | Type what you hear. |
| Read Aloud | Fluency, Pronunciation | 20 sec | Speak a written sentence. |
| Write About the Photo | Literacy, Production | 1 min | Describe an image in writing. |
| Speak About the Photo | Conversation, Production | 1-1.5 min | Describe an image verbally. |
| Read, Then Speak | Fluency, Conversation | 1.5 min | Read prompt, then speak on topic. |
| Listen, Then Speak | Conversation, Listening | 1.5 min | Listen to audio, then respond. |
| Complete Sentences | Literacy, Comprehension | 7-8 min | Choose words to fit context. |
| Highlight Answer | Comprehension | 7-8 min | Select text answering a question. |
Writing and Speaking Sample
These ungraded tasks provide samples for institutions: Write 50+ words (min 3 min, max 5 min) on a topic for literacy/production, and speak (1-3 min) on open-ended prompts or video interview for conversation skills.
Acceptance and Logistics
Over 5,000 institutions worldwide accept DET, including many in the US, UK (e.g., Imperial College London), and Ireland for student visas; Oxford, Cambridge, and Lancaster do not. Take it anytime from a quiet space with a computer (camera/mic required), costing $59, with unlimited retakes (certified results valid 2 years).
Preparation Tips
Practice adaptive questions, vocabulary, and timed speaking/writing via official mocks and apps; focus on fluency over perfection given your Duolingo familiarity and English test research (PTE/TOEFL/IELTS). Free resources include Duolingo’s practice test; aim for consistent daily sessions matching your content creation routine.
Also, Duolingo is a free, gamified language-learning app founded in 2011 by Luis von Ahn and Severin Hacker, designed to make education accessible worldwide through interactive lessons, streaks, and its mascot Duo the owl. It launched publicly in 2012 after a beta phase and expanded via mobile apps in 2013, reaching millions by incorporating adaptive algorithms for personalised learning.
Duolingo serves as a leading gamified platform for language learning, offering free access to interactive lessons in over 40 languages for English speakers, with expansions into subjects like Chess.
Key Features
Bite-sized lessons cover vocabulary, grammar, speaking, and listening with instant feedback, adaptive algorithms, and gamification like streaks, XP, leaderboards, and badges.
Stories, podcasts, and mini-games build conversational skills and cultural insights; voice recognition aids pronunciation practice.
Recent additions include Energy system (replacing hearts for rewarding consistency) and AI tools like Video Call, Role play, and Explain My Answer in Max tier.
Languages and Courses
English speakers access 40 courses, including top ones like Spanish (48.8M learners), French (27.2M), Japanese (24.4M), German (18.9M), and Korean (17.8M), plus niche options like High Valyrian and Klingon. Courses from other base languages expand to over 40 total, with ongoing additions like a 2025 Chess course and CEFR B2 expansions for French and Spanish. Stories and AI-supported paths are available in select languages like German, Italian, Portuguese, and Japanese.
Pricing Plans
| Plan | Monthly Price | Annual Price | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | $0 | Basic access with ads, limited hearts/energy |
| Super | $12.99 | $59.99-$84 | Ad-free, unlimited attempts, offline lessons |
| Super Family | N/A | $119.99 | Up to 6 accounts, all Super perks |
| Max | Varies | Varies | AI tools like Roleplay, Video Call |
A freemium model supports free core access while subscriptions fund operations.
Effectiveness and Updates
Independent studies show learners gain about 8.1 points per study hour on language tests, equivalent to a college semester in 34 hours on average for Spanish beginners. Recent 2025 research confirms high accuracy in conversations after 4-6 weeks and teacher endorsements for efficiency. As of Q2 2025, Duolingo reported 40% daily active user growth, driven by AI and new non-language courses. For English proficiency goals like PTE or TOEFL prep, it supplements basics effectively but pairs best with focused practice.
Recent Major Changes and Updates to Duolingo 2024 2025
Recent major changes and updates to Duolingo in 2024 and 2025 include the following:
Duolingo has introduced new AI-powered features that allow learners to practice real-life conversation and receive personalized grammar explanations. Over 90% of users who tried these AI tools for a month reported feeling prepared to use their new language in real situations. More than 60% said they applied what they learned outside the app, such as asking for directions or ordering food while traveling. These AI features enhance learning confidence significantly.
The course design was revamped in 2022 with the introduction of the “path” system, leading to improved learning outcomes such as higher reading and listening scores compared to the previous design. This new system is still being enhanced through ongoing research.
Duolingo’s efficacy studies consistently show that learning through the platform is as effective as traditional classroom learning. Learners achieve significant improvement across all language skills—reading, writing, speaking, and listening—in much less time than expected in formal education settings. This is validated by independent studies and endorsements from teachers.
User engagement features have evolved, replacing the earlier “hearts” system with an “Energy” model to encourage persistence without harsh penalties for mistakes. Gamification strategies and streaks continue to motivate learners, complemented by expansions in course offerings including non-language courses like Chess introduced in 2025.
These updates reflect Duolingo’s continual commitment to leveraging AI and research-backed pedagogy to enhance language acquisition efficiency and learner experience.
A Comprehensive Guide to Using Duolingo Effectively
Duolingo excels as a gamified tool for building language foundations through daily habits, best used with 15-30 minute sessions for consistent progress toward proficiency goals like PTE or TOEFL basics.
Getting Started
Download the app or visit duolingo.com, select your base language (e.g., English) and target language from 40+ options like Spanish or Japanese, then take the placement test for personalized starting level. Set daily goals (10-20 XP initially) and enable reminders; complete the onboarding tree or path to unlock core skills like basics and greetings.
Daily Practice Routine
Follow the Path: Tackle 1-3 lessons per day in sequence, focusing on weak units via practice mode; aim for 5-day streaks to build momentum.
Mix Skills: Alternate grammar, vocab, speaking (use microphone), and listening; review stories for context after 1-2 units.
Earn XP Efficiently: Complete quests, leaderboards, and events; use gems for bonus lessons without Super.
Maximising Features
Upgrade to Super for unlimited energy (replacing hearts), ad-free access, and offline mode if budget allows, especially for travel prep. Leverage AI in Max for Roleplay and Video Call to simulate conversations, ideal for real-world confidence before exams. Track progress with proficiency levels (A1-C2 CEFR-aligned) and certificates shareable for applications.
Advanced Strategies
| Tip | Benefit | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Legendary Lessons | Master units permanently | Retry after full path completion |
| Podcasts/Stories | Cultural immersion | Listen during commutes for CBSE-style audio practice |
| Club/Forums | Accountability and tips | Join for motivation, share PTE progress |
| Supplement Tools | Deeper grammar/speaking | Pair with Anki flashcards or YouTube vids |
Combine with focused exam drills (e.g., PTE Speaking) after 3 months for 20-30% vocab gains. Test weekly via Duolingo’s practice hub to adjust pace.
Contact our experts for more details.