Duolingo
Duolingo English Test
Duolingo English Test (DET)
Latest Updates (2026)
2025: Acceptance grew to 6,500+ programs. All 8 Ivy League now accept DET. TOEFL's new 1–6 scale does not affect DET score meaning or concordance tables.
About This Test
A modern, fully online English proficiency test you can take from home anytime. Now accepted by 6,500+ programs worldwide including all 8 Ivy League universities, Harvard Business School, University of Toronto, and Imperial College London. Results in 48 hours at just $59 — 80% cheaper than competitors.
Budget-friendly admissions test for undergraduate and postgraduate programs
Test Format
Literacy: Reading and writing tasks (adaptive)
Comprehension: Listening and reading tasks (adaptive)
Conversation: Speaking and listening tasks (adaptive)
Production: Writing and speaking tasks (adaptive)
Key Features
- Take from home — no test center required, available 24/7
- 6,500+ programs now accept DET (up from 5,000 in 2024)
- All 8 Ivy League universities accept DET
- Computer-adaptive: questions adjust to your level in real time
- 80% cheaper than other tests at just $59
- Unlimited free practice tests included
- Video interview and writing sample shared with institutions
- Results in 48 hours
Score Requirements by Level
| CEFR Level | Duolingo English Test Score | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| C1 – C2 | Advanced / Proficient | Postgraduate entry, scholarships, top employers |
| B2 | Upper Intermediate | Most undergraduate & postgraduate programs |
| B1 | Intermediate | Foundation programs, pathway entry |
| A2 | Elementary | Certificate programs, visa applications |
What Can You Use This For?
Top Institutions Accepting Duolingo English Test
Official Preparation Resources
- Official Duolingo English Test practice (free, unlimited)
- Duolingo English Test YouTube channel
- Sample test questions onenglishtest.duolingo.com
- CollegeVine DET preparation guide
Preparation Tip
Use the free official practice tests extensively — they're the best predictor. The adaptive algorithm rewards strong performance early. Practice typing quickly and speaking clearly. DET scores are stable regardless of TOEFL's scale change.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is DET different from TOEFL/IELTS?
DET is fully online, adaptive, and costs just $59 (vs $190-$340). It takes ~1 hour instead of 2-3 hours. You can take it from home anytime — no test center required.
Is DET really accepted by Ivy League schools?
Yes. All 8 Ivy League universities now accept DET for admissions. Harvard Business School, Northwestern Kellogg, and other top business schools also accept it.
Quick Facts
Who Accepts This?
Accepted by 6,500+ programs worldwide. All 8 Ivy League, Harvard Business School, Northwestern Kellogg, University of Toronto, Imperial College London. Strong in US, Canada, UK, Europe, and Asia.
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