The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a convenient, affordable, and fully online English proficiency exam that is gaining rapid acceptance by universities worldwide. Here’s a comprehensive, up-to-date guide aimed at Pakistani students: including test details, pattern, registration, fees, preparation tips, and summary tables.
Contents
📝 Duolingo English Test Overview
- Mode: 100% online (take from home, no appointment or travel needed)
- Duration: 60 minutes total
- Results: In 2 days (often faster)
- Validity: 2 years
- Acceptance: 5,700+ institutions—including top US, UK, Canadian, Australian, and European universities (always check your university’s requirements before choosing the test for admissions)
🧩 Duolingo Test Structure (2025)
| Section | Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction | 5 min | Rules, system check, ID upload |
| Adaptive Test | 45 min | Mix of reading, writing, listening, speaking; adaptive difficulty |
| Video Interview & Samples | 10 min | Ungraded; open speaking & writing samples shared with universities |
Key Question Types (2025 Update):
- Read and Complete / Select / Aloud
- Listen and Type / Select
- Write and Speak about a photo
- Interactive speaking (2025 update: real-time dialogue with on-screen character)
- Interactive listening (follow scenario & answer questions)
- Writing and speaking samples (shared with institutions)
- No more “Read Aloud” or “Listen, Then Speak” questions
💳 Fees & Registration (Pakistan)
| Service | Cost (USD) | PKR Approximate* |
|---|---|---|
| Duolingo Test Fee | $59–$70 | 16,500 – 19,000 |
| Retake (after 2 days) | $59–$70 | 16,500 – 19,000 |
| Sending Scores | Free (unlimited) | Free |
*Exchange rates vary
Registration Steps:
- Go to englishtest.duolingo.com
- Create account (with name as on valid ID)
- Pay fee online (all major cards, PayPal)
- Take test anytime within 21 days of purchase
Requirements:
- Government-issued photo ID (Passport, CNIC smart card, or Driver’s License accepted)
- Stable internet, computer/laptop with camera & microphone
- Quiet, well-lit room
🏆 Score & Interpretation
| Duolingo Score | IELTS Equivalent | English Proficiency Level |
|---|---|---|
| 155 – 160 | 8.5 – 9.0 | Expert |
| 135 – 150 | 7.5 – 8.0 | Very Good |
| 115 – 130 | 6.5 – 7.0 | Good |
| 95 – 110 | 5.5 – 6.0 | Competent |
| 75 – 90 | 4.5 – 5.0 | Modest |
- Most undergrad programs: 95–105 minimum
- Most postgrad programs: 115–125 minimum
- Results sent digitally; receiving universities can access official results dashboard.
📍 Test Features
| Feature | Duolingo | IELTS / TOEFL |
|---|---|---|
| Mode | Online, at home | Test center |
| Duration | 1 hour | 2–3 hours |
| Cost | $59–$70 | IELTS/TOEFL: $170+ |
| Score sending | Unlimited, free | Limited, extra fee |
| Availability | 24/7, on demand | Fixed dates |
| Retake wait | 2 days | 3–7 days |
⏳ Test Preparation Tips
| Skill | Tip |
|---|---|
| Reading | Practice with online passages, enrich your vocabulary |
| Listening | Watch English videos, practice listening questions |
| Writing | Write mini-essays and descriptions, focus on clarity |
| Speaking | Record yourself on various topics, aim for fluency |
| Mock Tests | Use Duolingo’s official free practice test for familiarity |
| Tech Readiness | Test device, camera, mic, and room setup before real exam |
Prep Resources:
- Duolingo practice test (free)
- YouTube channels (search “DET 2025 Practice”)
- Pakistani and international language institutes
🌎 Acceptance & Where to Use
- Recognized by 5,700+ universities in 110+ countries (including US, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, France, China, India**)
- Not for immigration purposes; strictly academic admissions
- Check with your preferred institution/program if Duolingo is accepted and the minimum score required
📝 Registration Summary Table
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Account | Create at englishtest.duolingo.com |
| Fee | Online payment ($59–$70) |
| ID | Valid govt photo ID, uploaded during registration |
| Test Window | Flexible—take anytime within 21 days post-payment |
| Result Time | 48 hours (2 days), share with unlimited institutions for free |
🏁 Key Takeaways
- Duolingo English Test is a low-cost, flexible, and globally recognized English proficiency exam.
- Convenient for Pakistanis—no need to travel, exam can be taken from home.
- Always check your target university’s score and test acceptance.
- Prepare with legit online resources and simulate test conditions.
- Registration, test, and score-sending process is straightforward and fully digital.
Good luck with your academic journey abroad! Always refer to englishtest.duolingo.com for latest updates and sample tests.
