Studying Abroad? Why Duolingo English Test is a Smart Choice for English Testing

Planning to study abroad is an exciting step but English proficiency requirements often become a roadblock. Traditional English proficiency tests like TOEFL and IELTS come with high costs, logistical challenges and slow processes that can overwhelm students. Enter the Duolingo English Test (DET), a pioneer in digital English Proficiency testing trusted by over 3 million students worldwide.

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1. Take the Test Anytime, Anywhere
2. Faster Results
3. Affordable and Transparent Costs
4. Growing Acceptance Across the US
5. Modern, Adaptive Test Format

The DET stands out for its affordability, convenience and growing acceptance across 5500+ leading universities, especially in the US. Let’s explore why this modern, student-first test is rapidly becoming the preferred choice for international applicants and how it compares to traditional EPTs.

1. Take the Test Anytime, Anywhere

One of the biggest pain points with traditional tests is the need to plan months in advance, travel to a test center and adhere to rigid schedules. This lack of flexibility can be especially challenging for students in smaller cities and towns where test centres are far apart.

The DET solves this issue by allowing students to take the test from the comfort of their homes. All you need is a computer, a webcam and a stable internet connection. Whether you’re balancing work, studies or family commitments, DET lets you schedule your test at a time that suits you.

2. Faster Results

Traditional tests often take up to two weeks, or even longer to deliver results. For students working with tight university deadlines, this waiting period can cause unnecessary anxiety and delays.

DET is a game-changer here, offering results in just 48 hours. This fast turnaround allows you to plan the next steps in your application process without delays. In comparison, TOEFL test result typically take six days, while IELTS result can take up to 13 days. The speed and efficiency of DET make it a clear winner for students on a timeline.

3. Affordable and Transparent Costs

Cost is a significant concern for many students applying to universities abroad. While TOEFL and IELTS fees range between $180–$250, the DET is priced at just $65 (less than INR 5500) making it much more accessible.

Even more impressive, DET includes unlimited score reporting at no additional cost, while TOEFL and IELTS charge fees for sending scores to more than four institutions. For students applying to multiple universities, these savings add up quickly. DET’s affordability ensures that students from diverse financial backgrounds can showcase their English proficiency without breaking the bank.

4. Growing Acceptance Across the US

The DET’s credibility continues to grow, with over 5,500 programs worldwide now accepting its scores—including 3800+ in the United States. Prestigious universities like Yale, Columbia, and the University of Chicago accept the DET, highlighting its stature alongside TOEFL and IELTS.

Moreover, DET is gaining traction for a variety of courses beyond traditional STEM and business programs such as Fintech and Blockchain Technology, Robotics and Autonomous Systems, Digital Media and User Experience Design, Cybersecurity and Information Assurance, and options such as Psychology, Art and Design. With acceptance from top US universities such as University of Pennsylvania, Missouri State University, California Institute of Technology, George Mason University, Notre Dame, University of Texas and others, DET is proving that it can compete with—and often outperform—traditional EPTs in terms of reach.

5. Modern, Adaptive Test Format

While TOEFL and IELTS rely on standardized question sets, DET leverages AI-powered technology to create an adaptive test format. Questions adjust in difficulty based on your performance, ensuring that the test is tailored to your individual skill level.

This streamlined, one-hour format contrasts sharply with the lengthier, more exhausting formats of the TOEFL exam (3 hours) and IELTS (2 hours and 45 minutes). The adaptive format not only provides an efficient assessment but also keeps test-takers engaged and less fatigued.

Another unique feature of DET is its video interview and writing sample, which universities can review to assess your communication skills in a natural setting. This holistic approach is a major advantage, allowing students to showcase their personality and fluency in ways that traditional tests don’t.