Duolingo is usually known as a language learning app but there is another product of Duolingo which people don’t know about: English Language Proficiency Test. Duolingo English Test (DET) has provided students and universities with a modern language proficiency tool at the click of a button. It has revolutionised the language testing system. Unlike TOEFL and IELTS exams, the concept of test centers and test dates are not there in DET. The students can simply sit in the comfort of their homes, take DET anytime and anywhere. This, however, doesn’t mean that you straight away quit preparing for TOEFL and IELTS. We have always emphasized that the best test for you is the one that your dream university prefers. In this post, we will provide you with all the information you need to decide whether the Duolingo English Test is for you or not.
What is Duolingo?
Duolingo English Test is an adaptive test that assesses the English proficiency level of non-native English speakers. It provides various organisations with proof that a student can successfully use English in all four language skills: Listening, Reading, Speaking and Writing.
Why should you take it?
- It is the future of language testing system
- It is convenient as it doesn’t require you to travel
- It is the shortened version of all language testing exams
- It is Adaptive i.e. difficulty level depends on the number of correct questions answered
- Cheaper than the other language testing exams
- Strict rules to ensure there is no cheating
- Send your results to multiple universities with no number limitation or extra fee
Who accepts it?
The test is gaining its popularity among students as 794 universities across the globe are accepting DET scores for undergraduate courses, and 287 universities all over the world are accepting DET for graduate courses. Since the Coronavirus pandemic, many American universities are welcoming Duolingo test scores to continue their admission processes without any hassle.
Requirements of DET
It appears that the test would be easy with a high percentage of the test takers scrolling through other web pages for the answers. But, that is not the case. The time per question is such that you could either search for the answer or attempt the question. Some questions will have as little as 3 seconds for answering. The candidate needs to be alert and prompt the entire time. Here are some test requirements:-
- Identity proof: passport, driver’s license or government ID
- A computer system in a well-lit room alone
- Front-facing camera
- Built-in speakers and microphone
- An empty room away from any distractions
- No devices other than the computer in the vicinity of the desk
- No scratch papers or other writing materials
How is it scored?
The test is scored from the range of 10-160.
| DUOLINGO | CEFR |
|---|---|
| 10-20 | A1 |
| 25-55 | A2 |
| 60-85 | B1 |
| 90-115 | B2 |
| 90-115 | C1 |
| 145-160 | C2 |
Test Structure
There is no fixed format of the test since it is adaptive. This simply means that the question type and its difficulty level changes according to the previous answer. For instance, if the previous answer is incorrect then an easier one is asked and the same is in the case of a correct answer. However, you will be asked to set up our computer for 5 minutes and then you will find two sections in the broader sense that part one will be an adaptive test of 45 minutes and part 2 will be a video interview and writing sample of 10minutes. Part 2 is a non-graded section but an essential one as it introduces the candidate to the universities.
Some questions would involve the students to use two language skills at the same time. For instance, listen to the words and write their spellings or listen to the question and write a paragraph. We have a separate blog post for the type of questions that can be asked in DET. Refer to it for in-depth explanations of each question type asked. In case you need more clarity on the Duolingo English Test, feel free to mail or call us anytime.