Duolingo English Test (DET) 2026 — Complete Guide

The Duolingo English Test (DET) has revolutionized international student admissions. It is a modern English proficiency assessment for international students and institutions, taken entirely online from your computer in just 1 hour, at a fraction of the cost of IELTS or TOEFL.

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Exam Overview — At a Glance

Parameter	Details
Provider	Duolingo
Format	Computer Adaptive Test (Online from home)
Duration	60 minutes (1 hour)
Scoring	10 to 160 points (in 5-point increments)
Exam Fee	$59 USD
Validity	2 years
Delivery	Online via secure desktop app with webcam/mic proctoring

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Exam Format & Structure

Unlike traditional tests divided strictly by Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking, the Duolingo test integrates these skills into a fluid, adaptive exam.

The test is divided into three sections:

Section	Duration	Description
Quick Setup	5 mins	Ensure your computer, camera, microphone, and ID are ready. Read the rules.
Adaptive Test	45 mins	A graded section evaluating your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. The difficulty adjusts based on your performance.
Video Interview & Writing Sample	10 mins	An ungraded section sent to universities alongside your score. You respond to two open-ended prompts.

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Duolingo vs. IELTS vs. TOEFL

Why are millions choosing Duolingo? Here is the comparison:

Feature	Duolingo English Test	IELTS Academic	TOEFL iBT
Cost	$59 USD	~$250 USD	~$250 USD
Duration	1 Hour	~2.75 Hours	~2 Hours
Results	Within 48 hours	3-5 days	4-8 days
Location	From home	Test Center / Home	Test Center / Home
Score Range	10 - 160	0 - 9 Bands	0 - 120

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Score Comparison (Duolingo to IELTS)

To understand what your DET score means, use this rough concordance table:

Duolingo Score	IELTS Equivalent	TOEFL Equivalent	CEFR Level
145 - 160	8.5 - 9.0	119 - 120	C2 (Proficient)
130 - 140	7.5 - 8.0	105 - 118	C1 (Advanced)
115 - 125	6.5 - 7.0	82 - 104	B2 (Upper Intermediate)
95 - 110	5.5 - 6.0	65 - 81	B2 (Upper Intermediate)
80 - 90	4.5 - 5.0	46 - 64	B1 (Intermediate)

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Technical Requirements

To take the test from home, you strictly need:

1. A quiet, well-lit room.
2. A supported computer with Windows or macOS.
3. A front-facing camera, a microphone, and speakers. (Headphones/earphones are strictly prohibited).
4. A reliable internet connection.
5. Your passport, driver's license, or government ID.

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Official Links

Resource	Link
Official Site	Duolingo English Test
Accepted Institutions	List of Universities
Practice Test (Free)	Take Practice Test

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Last Updated: May 2026 | Source: Duolingo