Planning to study abroad, apply to a university, or prove your English proficiency? Choosing the right English test can save you money, preparation time and unnecessary stress.
The Duolingo English Test, IELTS and TOEFL all assess English ability, but they differ in test format, availability, scoring and acceptance. This guide compares their main features so you can choose the exam that fits your academic goals, budget and preferred testing experience.
Quick answer: Choose the Duolingo English Test if your target institution accepts it and you want a convenient at-home option. Consider IELTS if you prefer its speaking interview format or need a test specifically accepted for your academic or professional purpose. TOEFL is a strong option for applicants who prefer computer-based academic English testing and whose institutions accept it.
Before booking, check the exact requirements of the university, course, scholarship, professional regulator or immigration authority you are applying to. A test can be reputable and still be unsuitable for your particular application.
Duolingo English Test vs IELTS vs TOEFL: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Duolingo English Test | IELTS | TOEFL iBT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main appeal | Convenience and a shorter online test | Flexible test options and a live speaking interview | Computer-based academic English assessment |
| Testing location | At home on a computer, subject to test rules | Official test centre; online options depend on location and purpose | Test centre or eligible home testing options, subject to availability and requirements |
| Test duration | About one hour | About 2 hours and 45 minutes for IELTS Academic | Check the current TOEFL iBT format before booking |
| Speaking format | Responses recorded on a computer | Speaking interview with an examiner | Responses recorded on a computer |
| Scoring | 160-point scale | Band scores from 0 to 9 | Use the current official TOEFL scoring scale and your institution’s requirements |
| Results | Typically available within two days | Timing varies by test delivery and location | Check current ETS score reporting estimates |
| Acceptance | Accepted by thousands of institutions, but not universally | Widely accepted for academic and other approved purposes | Widely accepted for academic purposes |
| Best for | Applicants whose institutions accept the test and who want a convenient option | Applicants who prefer an examiner interview or need an eligible IELTS version | Applicants comfortable with computer-based academic tasks |
Test formats, delivery options, prices and score reporting can change. Confirm the latest information on each official website before making a booking.
1. What Is the Duolingo English Test?
The Duolingo English Test (DET) is an online English proficiency exam used by many universities and other institutions to evaluate applicants’ English skills.
Its main attraction is convenience. The test is designed to be completed at home using a computer, webcam and microphone, provided you meet the technical and testing requirements. The assessment takes approximately one hour, and Duolingo states that results are typically available within two days.
How does the Duolingo English Test work?
The DET uses a computer-adaptive format, meaning the difficulty of certain questions changes in response to your performance. The test evaluates skills through a range of tasks, with speaking and writing samples also included in the results provided to institutions.
Because the exam is taken remotely, you must follow its rules carefully. Your room, equipment, identification and test-taking behaviour must meet the current requirements. A convenient at-home format does not mean that the test has no security restrictions.
Advantages of the Duolingo English Test
- Convenient testing: Take it at home if your location and equipment meet the requirements.
- Shorter exam: The test takes about one hour.
- Fast results: Official information indicates that results are typically available within two days.
- Digital score sharing: Results can be shared with institutions through the DET platform.
- Potentially lower cost: It is often less expensive than traditional English proficiency exams, although current prices should be checked before purchasing.
Disadvantages of the Duolingo English Test
- Acceptance varies: Not every university, programme or authority accepts the DET.
- Strict remote-testing rules: Technical problems or rule violations can affect your testing experience or result validity.
- Different speaking experience: You record responses rather than speaking directly with a live IELTS examiner.
- May not suit immigration: Do not assume that acceptance for university admission means acceptance for a visa or immigration application.
Who should choose Duolingo? It is a good candidate for students who want to take an English test at home, need results relatively quickly and have confirmed that their exact programme accepts DET scores.
Official resource: Search institutions that accept the Duolingo English Test.
2. What Is IELTS?
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is one of the best-known English proficiency tests. It is used for university admission, professional registration and certain immigration-related purposes, depending on the test version and the organisation involved.
There are two main versions to understand: IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training. IELTS Academic is commonly used for higher education and certain professional-registration applications. General Training is designed for other purposes, including some migration and training contexts.
IELTS Academic vs IELTS General Training
IELTS Academic: Usually the relevant version for university and postgraduate applications where IELTS is required.
IELTS General Training: Used for certain migration, work-related or training purposes, depending on the destination’s rules.
Some visa and professional applications require a specific IELTS test variant. Always check the exact test name, delivery method and score requirements for your application.
How does IELTS work?
IELTS assesses four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. IELTS Academic takes approximately two hours and 45 minutes. The speaking component involves an interview with a trained examiner, which appeals to candidates who prefer a live conversation rather than recording all spoken answers.
IELTS reports results using band scores from 0 to 9, including half-band increments. Your report includes scores for individual skills as well as an overall band score.
Advantages of IELTS
- Broad recognition: Accepted by many universities, employers and other organisations around the world.
- Live speaking interview: You interact with an examiner rather than answering every speaking task through a recording.
- Different test versions: Academic and General Training serve different purposes.
- Established scoring system: Band scores are familiar to many admissions offices and applicants.
- Potential suitability for specific applications: Certain authorities explicitly require an approved IELTS version.
Disadvantages of IELTS
- Longer exam: The Academic test takes considerably longer than the DET.
- Higher cost in many markets: Fees vary by country, test version and provider.
- Scheduling considerations: Test-centre appointments and speaking arrangements depend on local availability.
- Specific task preparation: Candidates need to understand the question types, timing and scoring criteria.
Who should choose IELTS? Consider IELTS if your university, employer or relevant authority accepts or requires it, especially if you prefer the live speaking interview or need a specific IELTS variant.
Official resources: Explore IELTS test options and understand IELTS scoring.
3. What Is TOEFL iBT?
The TOEFL iBT, administered by ETS, is an English proficiency test widely used for academic admissions. It evaluates how well you can use English in academic and educational settings.
TOEFL iBT is computer-based. Depending on local availability and eligibility, candidates may have test-centre and home-testing options. The exact delivery options, exam structure and scoring details should be checked with ETS before booking because test formats can be updated.
What does TOEFL test?
TOEFL iBT assesses Reading, Listening, Speaking and Writing. The tasks are designed to measure the English skills you need to understand academic information, communicate ideas and respond to different prompts.
The speaking component involves recording responses on a computer. If you prefer to prepare your thoughts and speak into a microphone rather than interact with a live examiner, this format may suit you.
Advantages of TOEFL iBT
- Strong academic focus: The test is designed for English use in educational settings.
- Computer-based delivery: Suitable for applicants who are comfortable reading, writing and speaking through a digital interface.
- Broad university recognition: Many institutions accept TOEFL scores for admissions.
- Integrated language tasks: Some tasks require you to use information from different sources or skills.
- Official preparation materials: ETS provides test information and preparation resources.
Disadvantages of TOEFL iBT
- Academic demands: Tasks may feel challenging if you are unfamiliar with academic vocabulary and listening materials.
- Computer-based speaking: You do not have a live speaking interview with an examiner during the recorded speaking tasks.
- Format changes: You must prepare using current materials rather than relying on outdated practice tests.
- Acceptance still matters: Confirm that your target programme accepts TOEFL and check the required score for your application.
Who should choose TOEFL? It is worth considering if you are applying to a university that accepts TOEFL, prefer computer-based tasks and want an exam designed around academic English.
Official resources: TOEFL test information and understand TOEFL scores.
Which English Test Is the Cheapest?
For many applicants, the cost of the test is an important factor. However, the cheapest advertised exam is not necessarily the cheapest option for your application if the receiving institution does not accept it.
The Duolingo English Test is generally marketed as a lower-cost option than traditional English exams. IELTS and TOEFL fees vary by country, location, test version and delivery method.
| Cost factor | Duolingo English Test | IELTS | TOEFL iBT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial test fee | Often lower; check current official price | Varies by country and test type | Varies by country and testing option |
| Travel costs | Usually none for eligible at-home testing | May apply if travelling to a test centre | May apply if travelling to a test centre |
| Preparation costs | Free practice resources are available | Free and paid preparation options | Free and paid preparation options |
| Score sharing | Check the current DET score-sharing terms | Check the current provider and test terms | Check current ETS score-reporting policies |
| Retake costs | Another purchase may be necessary | Additional test fees may apply | Additional test fees may apply |
To compare the real cost, include the exam fee, transportation, preparation materials, score-reporting charges if applicable, and the possibility of retaking the test. Check whether your target institution accepts the results before paying.
Which Test Is Easier: Duolingo, IELTS or TOEFL?
There is no universally easiest English test. Your result depends on your English proficiency, familiarity with the test format, time management and ability to perform under exam conditions.
You prefer shorter online testing
The Duolingo English Test may feel convenient if you are comfortable with a computer-adaptive assessment and recorded speaking tasks.
You prefer a live speaking interview
IELTS may feel more natural if you are comfortable talking with an examiner and prefer its task structure.
You prefer academic computer tasks
TOEFL iBT may be a good fit if you are comfortable working with academic material and recording spoken answers.
The best way to compare difficulty is to take an official practice test for each exam you are considering. Review the task types, timing, scoring requirements and your performance in each skill.
Do not select an exam simply because someone online says it is easier. Your target score and the requirements of the receiving institution matter more than a general ranking of difficulty.
Which Test Is Best for Studying in the United States, Canada, the UK or Australia?
All three tests may be accepted by some institutions in these destinations, but acceptance differs between universities, departments, degree levels and individual application routes. No test should be assumed to be accepted everywhere.
United States
Many American universities accept IELTS and TOEFL, and a growing number also accept the Duolingo English Test. Check the requirements for your exact programme and whether any minimum scores apply to individual skills.
Canada
Universities and colleges may accept different combinations of English tests. If your purpose is immigration rather than admission to a degree programme, check the relevant Canadian immigration rules separately. University acceptance does not automatically mean immigration acceptance.
United Kingdom
Universities can set their own English-language requirements. For visa-related applications, the rules may require a specific approved test and delivery method. Verify the requirements with both the institution and the relevant official government guidance.
Australia
Check the institution’s admissions requirements and the applicable visa rules. An English test accepted for university admission may not automatically satisfy every other requirement, and approved test types can depend on the application purpose.
Do Universities Accept the Duolingo English Test?
Yes. The Duolingo English Test is accepted by thousands of institutions and programmes around the world. However, acceptance is not universal, and requirements can differ within the same university.
A university may accept the DET for undergraduate admission but set different rules for postgraduate programmes, professional courses, scholarships or particular departments. Some applicants may also need to provide additional evidence of English proficiency.
Use the official Duolingo institution directory as a starting point, then confirm the requirements on the university’s own website. Do not rely only on a general acceptance list or an old blog post.
How Long Are the Test Results Valid?
English proficiency results are commonly treated as valid for two years, but you should verify the policy of the organisation receiving your scores. A university, employer, professional regulator or immigration authority may have its own rules about the age of results.
For IELTS and TOEFL, official guidance generally uses a two-year validity period. Check the current DET policies and your receiving institution’s requirements as well. If your application deadline is approaching, confirm that the result will still be accepted when you submit your application.
How to Prepare for the Duolingo English Test, IELTS or TOEFL
Although the formats differ, preparation for all three exams should include a combination of listening, reading, writing and speaking. You should also practise the exact task types used by the exam you choose.
Step 1: Confirm your target score
Find the minimum score required by each university or programme. If you are applying to several institutions, create a list of their requirements and identify the test accepted by all or most of them.
Step 2: Take an official practice test
Use the test provider’s official preparation resources. A realistic practice test helps you identify weak areas and become familiar with the timing, interface and instructions.
Step 3: Practise every skill
- Listening: Listen to English audio and practise identifying the main idea and key details.
- Reading: Read passages under timed conditions and practise locating relevant information.
- Writing: Organise your ideas clearly, answer the prompt directly and review grammar.
- Speaking: Practise answering questions aloud and explaining ideas in a clear, organised way.
Step 4: Practise under timed conditions
Knowing English is not the only requirement. You also need to manage time, understand the question format and complete each task within the allowed period. Rehearse using the current official exam structure.
Step 5: Review your mistakes
After each practice session, identify recurring problems. If you lose points because you misunderstand questions, focus on listening and reading. If your answers lack structure, practise outlining ideas before writing or speaking.
Step 6: Check your equipment and booking details
For remote testing, verify computer compatibility, internet reliability, identification requirements and room rules. For test-centre exams, check your appointment time, location and identification documents in advance.
Choose Your English Test: Interactive Recommendation
Answer these questions to identify which test you should investigate first. This tool provides a general recommendation, not confirmation that an exam is accepted for your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Duolingo English Test easier than IELTS?
Not for everyone. The DET is shorter and uses a different assessment format, but that does not automatically make it easier to achieve your target score. Your performance depends on your English ability, familiarity with the test and the score required by your institution.
Is TOEFL better than IELTS for studying abroad?
Neither test is universally better. Both are widely used for academic admissions. Compare the requirements of your target universities, the available test dates, the current exam format and the type of speaking tasks you prefer.
Can I take the Duolingo English Test from home?
Yes, the DET is designed for at-home testing, subject to its technical, identification and security requirements. Make sure your computer, webcam, microphone, internet connection and testing environment comply with the current rules.
Does every university accept the Duolingo English Test?
No. Many institutions accept it, but acceptance varies by institution, programme and application type. Check the official admissions page for your specific course and confirm the minimum score required.
Which test is best for immigration?
It depends on the destination and application category. Immigration authorities may approve only specific test versions and testing arrangements. Never assume that a test accepted by a university is also accepted for a visa or immigration application.
How long are IELTS and TOEFL results valid?
IELTS and TOEFL results are generally treated as valid for two years. Receiving organisations may set their own policies, so check the rules for your particular application and verify current guidance before booking.
Can I use a Duolingo English Test score for a scholarship?
Possibly, but scholarship requirements can differ from general university admission requirements. Check the scholarship’s official conditions and confirm whether the DET is accepted, along with the minimum score and any deadlines.
Should I take more than one English test?
Usually, you should begin by identifying which test meets your application requirements. Taking multiple exams may be worthwhile if different institutions require different tests or if you need an alternative, but it adds cost and preparation time.
Final Verdict: Which English Test Should You Take?
Choose the Duolingo English Test if your target institution accepts it and you value at-home convenience, a shorter exam and relatively fast results.
Choose IELTS if it is required for your application, you need a particular IELTS version or you prefer speaking with a live examiner.
Choose TOEFL iBT if your target institutions accept it and you prefer a computer-based test focused on academic English.
Before booking, verify the exact test, version, minimum score, result validity and submission deadline. Once you have confirmed those requirements, take an official practice test and choose the exam format that gives you the clearest path toward your goal.
Official websites: Duolingo English Test · IELTS · TOEFL.
Editorial note: Test fees, delivery options, score scales, result times and acceptance policies can change. Always confirm current details with the official test provider and the institution or authority receiving your results.