Duolingo started as a language-learning app. Later in 2016, the Duolingo English Test (DET) was introduced.
The idea was to provide an accessible, efficient, and user-friendly alternative to traditional English proficiency exams. The DET is now the third most popular English proficiency test after IELTS and TOEFL.
Given that the Duolingo exam is relatively new, students still have some confusion about registration, fees, and patterns. If you’re considering the DET and unsure where to start, this guide is for you.
In this guide, we’ve covered all the information regarding the Duolingo exam and its fees in India. We’ve also included details of the application procedure for the test, and useful Duolingo books to prepare for the test.
Keep reading to find out.
What is the Duolingo exam?
The Duolingo exam is a modern, quick, and cheap alternative to traditional English language proficiency tests like the IELTS and TOEFL. It has the shortest exam duration compared to other English language proficiency tests.
The online exam mode offers a 45-minute adaptive test that’s unique and tailored to each test taker. The test includes various question types that assess reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.
Unlike exams with a fixed question sequence, the Duolingo exam presents questions in no particular order. Its adaptive algorithm adjusts the difficulty level of questions based on your performance.
The test’s adaptive nature also means the next one will be more challenging if you answer a question correctly.
Duolingo full form
The full form of “DET” is the “Duolingo English Test,” often simply called the “Duolingo Test.”
DET and Duolingo Test refer to the same exam designed to measure your English language skills when you apply to universities abroad. It is a widely accepted test in universities in the USA, all of Europe, Australia and New Zealand.
What is the Duolingo test on paper?
The Duolingo test has never been offline; it has always been conducted online. This digital format ensures accessibility and convenience for all test-takers. So, there is no Duolingo test on paper.
Duolingo exam eligibility 2024
There are no stringent academic qualifications or eligibility requirements for the Duolingo English Test in general. However, if you plan to study in English-speaking countries or move there for professional reasons, you must follow certain guidelines.
- You must be older than 13 years of age to take the exam
- If you’re under 13, you must have consent from your parents or a guardian. You need to fill out a separate form during registration.
- You must have a valid government ID, like a driver’s license or passport
Other practical requirements that make you eligible for the exam are:
- You must have a working computer with a microphone and webcam.
- A stable and fast internet connection
Duolingo exam fee 2024
The Duolingo exam fee is affordable compared to other English proficiency tests.
Source
Here’s what you need to know about the test fees for 2024.
Single test fee
In 2024, the fee for a single attempt at the Duolingo English Test is ₹4,800 (US $59). This is quite an affordable price that ensures the test remains accessible for students of different economic strata.
If you want to take the test more than once, there’s a discounted offer you can consider.
Discounted bundle
Duolingo offers a ‘Best Value’ bundle for those who plan to take the test more than once. You can purchase two tests for a total of ₹7,878 (US $98), which is just ₹3,939 (US $49) per test.
This option is ideal if you want to improve your scores or think you need a practice run before the final attempt. But the catch is you cannot cancel or reschedule the exam. If you do that, you’ll have to repeat the registration process and make the payment again.
The exam has an open window of 21 days from the purchase date, and if you fail to write the test during this time, your registration will be canceled. Sadly, you won’t get a refund either.
That’s why it’s best to pay only when you’re ready to take the exam.
Scoring method and validity
The Duolingo English Test scorecard helps universities analyze your language skills effectively and thoroughly. Here’s what Duolingo’s total marks score report looks like:
In the Duolingo exam, scores are divided into Overall and Subscores.
In the Overall score, the Duolingo English test provides an overall score ranging from 10 to 160. It is not an average of the subscores but an independent assessment of your overall ability in English.
On the other hand, subscores differ slightly as they offer an in-depth overview of each skill. It gives you subscores in four key areas, each scaled from 10 to 160. These four areas are:
- Literacy
- Comprehension
- Conversation
- Production
Questions in the literacy area evaluate reading and writing skills. Comprehension measures your ability to understand complex ideas and present them in a plain form. The third area evaluates your ability to speak and listen; the last one checks your overall ability to speak and write.
But the question is, how do you interpret these subscores?
Let’s talk about that next.
- Basic (10-50): Basic scores means you can understand and use English to a satisfactory level.
- Intermediate (55-80): This score range means that you can manage routine communication in work, school, ambitions, and plans, but with some difficulties.
- Upper-Intermediate (85-120): This score reflects your ability to communicate on unfamiliar topics and understand difficult or complex texts.
- Advanced (125-160): This range demonstrates your proficiency in understanding and using language flexibly, including specialized and idiomatic language.
If you want to find out which universities accept a specific Duolingo English Test (DET) score as proof of language proficiency and the cutoff scores for those universities, you can use SelectRight.
SelectRight provides accurate information about university requirements and much more.
You can search through over 40,000 programs across 4,000 universities worldwide within minutes using SelectRight. Here’s how:
- Register on SelectRight: Start by creating an account on the SelectRight platform.
- Create Your Profile: Fill in your academic, personal, and career details.
- AI Algorithm Matches Your Profile: The AI algorithm will match your profile with the best-suited universities and programs.
- Shortlist and Compare: Receive a shortlist of universities that match your profile and compare them based on various factors.
- Talk to an Expert: Consult with an expert at every stage to get unbiased advice.
By following these steps, you can easily find the best possible university options that match your Duolingo score and other academic credentials.
Trash advice versus SelectRight. You choose.
Next, let’s know more about the validity of the Duolingo exam.
Duolingo exam score validity
The validity period for your Duolingo exam score for 2024 is the same as other proficiency tests, such as IELTS and TOEFL–two years from the test date.
Now, let’s look at the most important part of this guide, the syllabus, and the pattern of the DET.
Syllabus and exam pattern
The Duolingo English Test offers a flexible, comprehensive exam pattern with a simple syllabus. The exam–as we explained earlier–evaluates the four core language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
DET exam pattern
Adaptive test
Duration: 45 minutes
Content/Question types:
- Complete missing letters in sentences
- Record yourself speaking a given sentence
- Describe an image in writing without a word limit
- Identify real English words from a list, both audibly and visually
- Transcribe spoken sentences
- Answer questions in writing with a minimum of 50 words
- Verbally respond to questions, recording answers of at least 30 seconds
Video interview and writing sample
Duration: 15 minutes
Content:
- Video interview: Choose one of two topics and discuss it for up to three minutes.
- Writing test: Write on one of two topics within three to five minutes.
The syllabus and exam pattern can be more thoroughly practiced from the official Duolingo English practice test and Duolingo test readiness guide.
How do I apply for Duolingo exams?
Applying for the Duolingo exam is also quite simple. Here’s how you can get started:
Step 1: Registration and slot booking
Go to the official Duolingo English Test website. This is where you’ll find all the information about your test and bookings.
Step 2: Create an account or log in
If you are a new user, you will need to create an account. If you already have an account, simply log in.
Step 3: Fill in your details
Fill out the details required in the registration form and sign up. Once you do that, you’ll be redirected to the purchase page.
Step 4: Payment of test fee
Then click on “Buy now” and pay the test fee of $59 (approximately ₹4,800). This fee allows you to book a test slot within the next 21 days.
Step 5: Select the result delivery speed
Next, choose your result delivery speed. The standard time is 2 days; however, if you want results within 12 hours, you’ll have to pay $40 extra, which is another ₹ 3,336.
Step 6: Book your test
After payment, you can book your test immediately or at any time within the next 21 days. Since the test will be proctored, you’ll require an uninterrupted internet connection, a technically fit computer with full charge, a front-facing camera, microphone, speakers, and a quiet, well-lit room.
If there is any hampering in the middle of the test, you’ll be disqualified from the exam.
Step 7: Prepare thoroughly
After booking, you’ll have up to 21 days to take the test. It’s recommended that you use this time to prepare well.
To prepare accordingly, you can use study materials from the Duolingo practice test and other Duolingo books that are available online.
In case of canceling the test
If you want to cancel your test, choose ‘Cancellation’ on your exam page or window, and you won’t be refunded. Also, if you don’t attempt the test within 21 days, it will automatically cancel without a refund.
When to book your test
Booking your test right after you’re fully prepared will help you avoid unnecessary rescheduling or cancellation; moreover, these are non-refundable. Hence, choosing tests appropriately is advisable to save money, time, and effort.
Duolingo exam Preparation 2024
Here are some practical tips and strategies to help you prepare for the Duolingo English Test in 2024.
Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern
Since the DET is adaptive, performing well in the initial questions can lead to more challenging questions. Hence, become familiar with the exam pattern, as this will help you grasp the actual method of attempting each section so that you score high and remain comfortable throughout the section.
Start preparing early
You can read from top international magazines, newspapers, and online articles to build vocabulary and understand complex sentence structures, which you can’t afford to do at the last minute.
Also, practice speedy and steady reading to improve your ability to skim through information quickly, a useful skill required in the test.
Practice spoken English
Duolingo uses a different algorithm to evaluate all your skills and generate your score. It will not score you based on how many right or wrong answers you’ve given.
So, practice speaking cohesively to convey your thoughts more clearly. Watch English movies and TV shows, preferably with subtitles initially, to improve your ability to understand spoken English in different accents.
Writing section
To ace the DET test, your writing must have clarity, correct grammar, and the natural ability to logically express your ideas and thoughts. That’s why regular writing practice is crucial.
You can always begin by practicing short paragraphs and gradually move to long essays or other forms of writing.
Use Duolingo practice tests
You can use the free practice tests available on the Duolingo English Test website to understand the format and types of questions you will face in the exam.
Taking sample tests multiple times will help you eliminate recurring errors, adjust your preparation strategy, and track your progress.
Practice under exam conditions
Try to simulate the test environment at home. This includes adhering to the time limits, using the same type of computer and settings you will use on test day, and ensuring a quiet, well-lit space for your practice sessions. This practice will help you manage time effectively and reduce anxiety during the test.
FAQs
How do I check my DET test scores?
You can check DET scores in two ways. One way is to receive an official mail notification about your DET score from Duolingo. Another way is to log in to your official Duolingo account and view your exam status. Once they’re available, you can view your overall score and subscores.
How is scoring done for the Duolingo English Test?
The DET test scores are reported on a scale from 10 to 50 in five-point increments. The scoring system uses statistical machine learning algorithms to evaluate the different sections of the exam based on the content of your responses.
How are subscores calculated for DET?
Subscores are calculated based on four elements: literacy, comprehension, conversation, and writing. The algorithms evaluate your ability to convey ideas and thoughts cohesively both in speaking and writing. These scores are independent of the overall scores of the Duolingo test.
How do I apply for the Duolingo exam online for 2024?
Applying to the Duolingo English Test is straightforward and easy. Just visit the official website, create your user account, fill in your details, pay the test fee, and select your preferred test date.
What is the cost to apply for the Duolingo exam in 2024?
The fee for the Duolingo English Test in 2024 is USD 59, which is ₹ 4,929.26. There will be a 21-day window from the registration date, after the 21 days, you’ll have to pay again to take the test.
Can I retake the Duolingo English Test?
Yes, you are free to retake the Duolingo English Test. All you have to do is register for the exam again and pay the testing fee each time you wish to retake it.
What are the technical requirements for taking the Duolingo test?
You must have a computer with a strong internet connection, a front-facing camera, a microphone, and speakers to take the Duolingo English Test. You also have to make sure that your testing environment is quiet and well-lit to avoid any disturbances during the test.
How can I prepare for the Duolingo English Test?
You can prepare for the Duolingo English Test by practicing with the material on the Duolingo website, including sample tests that simulate the actual conditions. Practice in reading, writing, listening, and speaking English will help enhance your proficiency.
What is the validity period of the Duolingo test scores?
Duolingo test scores are valid for two years from the test date.
How quickly can I get my Duolingo test results?
You can expect to receive your Duolingo test results within 48 hours after completing the test. This quick turnaround is particularly useful for meeting tight application deadlines.
