Ever since the Pandemic, the Duolingo English Test has gained much popularity due to the closure of in-person test centers. But what is Duolingo? After reading this blog, you will be confident about what is Duolingo and how it varies from other English Proficiency tests.
What is the Duolingo English Test?
This test is an online testing tool that evaluates how well you can speak, read, listen, and write English. If you are planning to move to an English-speaking country for academic purposes, the Duolingo English Test is for you. A large number of universities are accepting this Test from international applicants. In over 50 countries, 5000+ universities endorse the test, and the number does not cease to increase.
The computer-based test designed to assess your English proficiency is adaptive. As you progress through the test the difficulty level of the questions increases or decreases based on your prior answers. Along with the multiple-choice questions, you have to undergo sections demanding open-ended answers. These sections of the test measure your writing and speaking abilities. The computer will grade your answers. One of the unique features of the Duolingo Test is that you can record a video interview or writing sample.
Duolingo English Test Format?
To take the test, you will need a computer with reliable internet access and a camera. The test comprises four sections: Reading Writing, Listening, and Speaking. There is no defined content or number of questions for the Duolingo. The Artificial Intelligence would determine if you have answered enough questions for evaluation before terminating the test.
On average, the test takes one hour to complete, it is broken down into three sections Introduction and setup (five minutes), Adaptive test (Approximately 45 minutes), and video interview (10 minutes long).
The Duolingo test has four sub-scores that measure your ability to use the English language naturally. The subscores target and assess different skills. The Literacy sub-score assesses reading and writing, Comprehension sub-score evaluates reading and listening. Similarly, Conversation assesses listening and speaking, and the Production sub-score assesses your writing and speaking skills.
Scoring on the Duolingo English Test
The test assesses your performance using human evaluators and automatic scoring methods. You will receive your test score typically within 48 hours of taking the test. The test scores remain valid for two years. You can retake the Duolingo language test twice a month giving it an edge over other English language proficiency tests. It helps you to improve your scores on tests without waiting for a long time.
The overall Duolingo test score indicates CEFR level and level of proficiency as presented in the table below.
| Duolingo Test Score | CEFR level | Level of proficiency |
| 10-55 | A1/A2 | Basic user |
| 60-85 | B1 | Independent user |
| 90-115 | B2 | Independent user |
| 125-160 | C1/C2 | Proficient user |
IELTS VS Duolingo
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is the most popular English Proficiency test. You might be wondering how Duolingo differs from IELTS, and which is the better option. Let’s draw a comparison between IELTS and Duolingo to help you decide. Duolingo is entirely a computer-based test while IELTS also offers paper paper-based option. Candidates can take the Duolingo English Test at home or anywhere convenient for them. While to take the IELTS test you have to go to a designated testing center, even if you take it on a computer.
When comparing the two English Language Proficiency tests, note that the Duolingo test is cheaper than the IELTS. The Duolingo English test costs around $60, while the IELTS will cost you over $200. Next, talking about the duration of the test, Duolingo usually takes an hour to complete but IELTS will last over two hours. The test results of the Duolingo English test are available within 48 hours of taking the test. However, for IELTS you have to wait for a few days to get test results. While Duolingo may seem better than IELTS, it’s important to note that not all International Colleges and Universities accept Duolingo. If you plan to take the Duolingo English Language test, make sure the institute you are interested in accepts Duolingo.
How to prepare for the Duolingo English Test?
After you have decided that Duolingo is the right choice for you, begin preparing. Get started with the sample tests to have a general idea of the test. You can take unlimited practice tests to get an estimated score and evaluate your progress. You can create an account on the Duolingo site and easily access practice tests. Finally, you can improve your score on any test by reading books or newspapers, listening to podcasts, and watching documentaries.
Conclusion
Duolingo is an adaptive computer-based English language proficiency test. Several institutes around the world are now accepting the Duolingo English Test. The test is a convenient and cost-effective test when it comes to assessing your English proficiency. The test is designed to be user-friendly but before taking the test be sure you have good internet connectivity. Finally, you can take the sample tests available on the internet to help you maximize your chance of success. Good luck!
