Duolingo English Test (DET) 2025 Guide: New Features, Cost, and Registration

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is an online, adaptive English proficiency exam designed to assess a candidate’s ability in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Unlike traditional exams, it can be taken anytime, anywhere with just a computer, a webcam, and a reliable internet connection. The DET is known for its quick testing process (about 1 hour) and fast results (within 2 days), making it a convenient option for students and professionals worldwide.

The Duolingo English Test has gained significant popularity due to its accessibility, affordability, and trusted scoring. Over 4,500 institutions across the globe—including top universities in the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, and Europe—now accept DET scores for admissions. It provides a flexible and reliable alternative to traditional tests like TOEFL and IELTS, especially for those seeking faster testing and application processes. DET is especially important for students from remote areas where test centers are limited.

• Format: Online, adaptive, and video interview
  
  
• Duolingo English test duration : Around 60 minutes
  
  
• Result Time: Within 48 hours
  
  
• Duolingo English test Fee: Around USD 70 (INR 6000)
  
  
• Score Range: 10–160
  
  
• Validity: 2 years
  
  
• Global Acceptance: 4,500+ institutions
  
  
• Test Availability: 24/7, no fixed dates
  
  
• Retake Policy: Up to 3 attempts in a 30-day period

What is the Duolingo English Test (DET)?

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a modern, digital-first English proficiency exam designed to assess a person’s skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It is especially popular among students and professionals who seek a quick, convenient, and affordable way to prove their English language abilities for academic, immigration, or professional purposes.

Launched by Duolingo in 2016, the DET was created to make English proficiency testing more accessible to everyone. Traditional English tests often require travel to test centers, are expensive, and have long waiting times for results. The DET, on the other hand, offers a fully online experience that candidates can complete from the comfort of their homes, requiring only a computer with a webcam and stable internet. Its affordability and flexibility have made it highly attractive, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when traditional testing options were limited.

The main purpose of the Duolingo English Test is to provide a reliable, efficient, and accessible method for proving English language skills to universities, employers, and visa offices.

Unique Features of the DET:

• Fully Online: No need to travel to a test center.
  
  
• Short Duration: The entire test takes about 60 minutes.
  
  
• Adaptive Format: Questions adjust in difficulty based on your answers.
  
  
• Quick Results: Receive your certified results within 48 hours.
  
  
• Integrated Video Interview: A 10-minute ungraded speaking sample that institutions can review.

Comparison with other English proficiency tests (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE)

Why Take the Duolingo English Test?

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is becoming a top choice for many test-takers because it removes many of the traditional barriers of English proficiency testing. Whether you’re applying to universities, jobs, or immigration programs, DET offers a modern, fast, and affordable alternative to prove your English skills.

Key benefits:

• Convenience: Take the test from anywhere, anytime—no need to travel to a test center. Duolingo English test dates are available round the year.
  
  
• Affordability: At around USD 65 (inr 6065/-) , DET costs much less than other major English tests.
  
  
• Flexibility: Available 24/7, you can schedule and take the test whenever you are ready.
  
  
• Unlimited Score Reports: Send your results to as many institutions as you want for free (no extra fees for additional reports).
  
  
• Fast Results: Get your certified results within just 48 hours.
  
  
• User-Friendly: Short test duration (~1 hour) and adaptive format make it less stressful and more efficient.

Who should take DET?

• Students: Those applying for undergraduate, graduate, or other academic programs abroad where English proficiency is required.
  
  
• Professionals: Individuals seeking work opportunities in English-speaking environments, companies, or remote international roles.
  
  
• Migrants: People applying for immigration programs or visas that require proof of English language skills.
  
  
• Test-Takers in Remote Areas: Anyone who finds it difficult to access a physical test center can easily take DET from home.

Latest Duolingo Updates & Highlights 2025

In 2025, Duolingo has introduced new question formats to better assess real-world communication skills. Advanced AI technology is now deeply integrated into the test for scoring and proctoring, ensuring faster and more accurate evaluation.

New Question Types and AI Integration

In 2025, Duolingo has introduced new question formats to better assess real-world communication skills. Advanced AI technology is now deeply integrated into the test for scoring and proctoring, ensuring faster and more accurate evaluation.

Dual Camera Requirement and Technical Updates

From 2025 onwards, DET requires candidates to have dual cameras (front and back) during the test for enhanced security and monitoring. Ensure your setup meets the latest technical guidelines.

Subscores Section (Effective July 1, 2024)

As per the latest update, now, candidates receive:

• Individual Subscores: Literacy, Comprehension, Conversation, and Production.
  
  
• Integrated Subscores: Skills measured across multiple sections, giving universities a clearer view of language proficiency.

Recent Fee Changes and Policy Updates

• Duolingo English test price: Duolingo English test cost varies per region. In India it is INR 6065/- (may vary slightly by region).
  
  
• Retake Policy: Candidates can attempt the test 3 times within a 30-day period.
  
  
• Score Sending: Still unlimited at no extra cost.

Duolingo Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Take the Test?

Anyone wishing to prove their English proficiency for academic, professional, or immigration purposes.

Minimum Age Requirements

Candidates must be at least 13 years old to take the test. Those under 18 may be required to provide parental consent.

Prerequisites and Documentation

Test-takers must have a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a passport, driver’s license, or national ID card. Additionally, they need access to a computer equipped with a camera, microphone, and a reliable internet connection.

Duolingo English test requirements: Device specific

Since the DET is conducted entirely online, ensure you have the following:

• Device: A desktop or laptop computer with Windows or macOS. Mobile devices and tablets are not supported.
  
  
• Operating System: Windows 7 or newer, or macOS 10.12 or newer.
  
  
• Hardware:
  • A built-in or external front-facing webcam.
    
    
  • A microphone.
    
    
  • Speakers (headphones or earphones are not permitted).
    
    
• Internet Connection: A stable and high-speed internet connection is essential to prevent disruptions during the test session.
  
  
• Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome, Firefox, or Safari

Duolingo English Test Registration Process

Step-by-Step Guide for Registration

To register for the Duolingo English Test, follow these simple steps:

1. Visit the official Duolingo English Test website: Go to englishtest.duolingo.com and explore the information about the test.
   
   
2. Create a free account or log in: If you are a new user, sign up by providing your email address and creating a password. If you already have a Duolingo account, you can simply log in using your existing credentials.
   
   
3. Verify your email address and set up your profile: After registering, you will receive a verification email. Click the link in the email to verify your account and complete your personal profile by entering basic details like your full name (matching your ID), birth date, and intended use of the test.
   
   
4. Purchase the test: Once your account is set up, click on "Purchase a Test" and proceed to pay the test fee (INR 6065). Various payment methods such as credit/debit cards, PayPal, and regional options are available.
   
   
5. Complete the system check: Before you start the test, Duolingo will guide you through a system check to ensure that your computer, microphone, camera, and internet connection meet all technical requirements. This step helps avoid technical issues during the test.
   
   
6. Take the test within 21 days of purchase: After purchasing, you have up to 21 days to complete your test. You can choose any convenient time and take the test from the comfort of your home.

Required documents

You must present a valid, government-issued photo ID, such as a passport, driver’s license, or national identity card. Please ensure you have the original, physical document with you during the test, as photocopies or digital images are not accepted. To check which forms of ID are acceptable in your country or region, visit our accepted identification page.

Duolingo English Test Pattern

The Duolingo English Test (DET) features a variety of question types designed to measure real-world English skills across reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Duolingo English test format is crafted using adaptive technology to match the test taker's ability level, making the experience highly personalized and efficient. The 2025 version of the test introduces a blend of familiar and interactive question patterns, including tasks like Read and Select, Listen and Type, Write About the Photo, Interactive Writing, and more. These questions not only assess individual language skills but also test integrated abilities such as comprehension, conversation, literacy, and production.

• Read and Select
  → Choose whether the word shown is a real English word.
  
  
• Fill in the Blanks
  → Complete the unfinished word in a sentence.
  
  
• Read and Complete
  → Fill missing letters in a short passage.
  
  
• Read Aloud
  → Read a sentence aloud into the microphone.
  
  
• Listen and Type
  → Listen to a sentence and type exactly what you hear.
  
  
• Complete the Sentences
  → Select the best word for each blank in a passage.
  
  
• Complete the Passage
  → Choose the best sentence to fit into a missing spot in the passage.
  
  
• Highlight the Answer
  → Highlight a part of a passage that answers a question.
  
  
• Identify the Idea
  → Choose the main idea expressed in a passage.
  
  
• Title the Passage
  → Select the best title for a given passage.
  
  
• Listen and Respond (Interactive Listening)
  → Choose conversation responses after listening to short dialogues.
  
  
• Summarize the Conversation
  → Summarize a conversation you just heard in writing.
  
  
• Write About the Photo
  → Write a short paragraph describing an image.
  
  
• Interactive Writing
  → Respond to a prompt (5 minutes) and then reply to a follow-up prompt (3 minutes).
  
  
• Listen, Then Speak
  → Listen to a topic and speak about it for up to 90 seconds.
  
  
• Speak About the Photo
  → Speak about an image shown for 90 seconds.
  
  
• Read, Then Speak
  → Read a prompt and then speak your response for 90 seconds.
  
  
• Writing Sample
  → Write a short essay on a given topic (3-5 minutes).
  
  
• Speaking Sample
  → Speak on a given topic (1-3 minutes).

Duolingo Exam Syllabus

The Duolingo English Test syllabus covers all four key language skills: reading, listening, speaking, and writing. In the Reading section, candidates engage with short passages, complete sentences, and fill in blanks using context clues. The Listening tasks test the ability to recognize spoken words, type what is heard, and understand conversations. The Speaking section requires candidates to read aloud, describe images, and respond to various questions. Finally, in the Writing section, test-takers must write descriptions based on images, compose short essays, and respond to written prompts.

Duolingo English test modules

• Reading: Short passages, fill in the blanks, sentence completion
  
  
• Listening: Identify spoken words, listen and type, conversation comprehension
  
  
• Speaking: Read aloud, describe images, answer questions
  
  
• Writing: Write about images, short essays, respond to prompts

Duolingo English Test Scoring & Results

The Duolingo English Test scores are reported on a scale of 10 to 160, with higher scores indicating stronger English proficiency. Test-takers also receive subscores in Literacy, Comprehension, Conversation, and Production, offering a detailed breakdown of their skills. Duolingo English test results are delivered within 48 hours, making DET one of the fastest English proficiency tests available. Duolingo English test validity is  for 2 years, and candidates can send their scores to an unlimited number of institutions for free, making the process both quick and cost-effective.

• Score Range: 10–160
  
  
• Subscores: Literacy, Comprehension, Conversation, Production
  
  
• Result Time: Within 48 hours
  
  
• Duolingo English test validity: 2 years
  
  
• Score Sharing: Unlimited and free to all institutions

DET Exam Dates & Attempts

The Duolingo English Test offers unmatched flexibility by being available 24/7, on-demand. Unlike traditional exams with fixed dates, candidates can choose when to take the test based on their readiness. Test-takers are allowed a maximum of three attempts within a 30-day period, providing ample opportunity to achieve their desired scores if needed.

Duolingo Test Validity

The Duolingo English Test scores are valid for two years from the date of the test. This validity period ensures that candidates have sufficient time to use their certified results for university applications, visa processes, or job opportunities around the world.

Countries & Institutions Accepting DET

• Number of Universities: Over 4,500 universities and institutions worldwide now recognize and accept the Duolingo English Test scores.
  
  
• Duolingo English test valid for which country: DET is accepted across top education destinations such as the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Germany, France, and many others.
  
  
• Duolingo English test accepted university: Examples include Yale University, Columbia University, University of Toronto, Imperial College London, University of Sydney, and University of Auckland.

DET vs. Other English Proficiency Tests

Table comparing DET, IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE (duration, cost, format, acceptance)

DET vs IELTS vs TOEFL score comparison

Duolingo English test preparation

• Familiarize with Test Format: Practice sample questions on the Duolingo website.
  
  
• Daily Practice: Focus on academic reading, listening, writing, and speaking.
  
  
• Time Management: Practice completing mock tests within the 60-minute frame.
  
  
• Improve Typing Speed: Since it's an online exam, typing speed can impact your performance. Hence improve your typing speed.
  
  
• Use Official Resources: Duolingo offers practice tests and a free test readiness guide.

Conclusion

The Duolingo English Test 2025 is faster, smarter, and more secure than ever. With its AI-enhanced testing experience, dual-camera security, new subscores, and global acceptance, DET continues to offer an excellent, affordable, and flexible pathway for students, professionals, and migrants to showcase their English proficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions: 

Q. What is the Duolingo English Test?

A. The Duolingo English Test (DET) is an online English proficiency exam that measures your reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. It is often used for university admissions and professional certifications.

Q. Is the Duolingo English Test free?

A. No, the Duolingo English Test is not free. You need to pay a fee to take the test.

Q. What is the cost of the Duolingo English Test?

A. The cost of the Duolingo English Test is INR 6065/- , and this fee includes sending your results to multiple institutions.

Q. How long is the Duolingo English Test?

A. The Duolingo English Test takes about 1 hour to complete, including a 5-minute introduction and a 10-minute video interview.

Q. What is the Duolingo English Test total marks?

A. The Duolingo English Test is scored on a scale of 10 to 160, with higher scores reflecting greater English proficiency.

Q. Which countries accept the Duolingo English Test?

A. Countries like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and many European countries accept the Duolingo English Test for admissions and visa purposes.

Q. Which universities accept the Duolingo English Test?

A. Thousands of universities, including Yale University, Columbia University, University of Toronto, Imperial College London, and University of Sydney, accept the Duolingo English Test.

Q. How many times can I take the Duolingo English Test?

A. You can take the Duolingo English Test as many times as you want, but you can only take it twice within a 30-day period.

Q. Can I retake the Duolingo English Test?

A. Yes, you can retake the Duolingo English Test if you are not satisfied with your score or if you want to improve it.

Q. Does the Duolingo English Test have negative marking?

A. No, the Duolingo English Test does not have negative marking. Incorrect answers do not reduce your score.

Q. How to prepare for the Duolingo English Test?

A. To prepare for the Duolingo English Test, you should practice all four skills — reading, writing, speaking, and listening — by using sample questions, taking practice tests, improving your vocabulary, and practicing speaking fluently and clearly. Duolingo’s official website also provides a free practice test.

Q. What is the Duolingo Practice Test?

A. The Duolingo Practice Test is a free, shorter version of the real Duolingo English Test. It helps you experience the question types, format, and timing before taking the actual exam.

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• PTE Exam
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