The Duolingo English Test is taken on your own computer at home, whenever you are ready, with remote proctoring. It lasts about an hour and adapts question difficulty to your level as you go.
It is one of the most affordable options and results arrive quickly. Scores run from 10 to 160, with subscores for reading, listening, writing and speaking.
Thousands of institutions accept DET, especially in the US and Canada, and many in the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. It is not generally accepted for visa purposes where a government-approved test is required. Moksh does not run DET; you book directly with Duolingo.
Test format
- 1
Introduction and setup · About 5 minutes
Check your computer, camera and microphone, read the rules and verify your identity.
- 2
Adaptive test · About 45 minutes
Short, mixed tasks such as completing words, listening and typing, reading and selecting words, reading aloud, interactive reading and listening, writing about a photo, and interactive speaking with an on-screen character.
- 3
Writing and speaking sample · About 10 minutes
An extended written answer and a spoken answer that are sent to institutions with your score so they can see your English directly.
Scoring
Overall score from 10 to 160 in five-point steps, with subscores for reading, listening, writing and speaking on the same scale. Many universities ask for 105–120 overall, and some top institutions ask for more.
Fee, results and validity
- Fee in India: USD 70 for one test (roughly ₹6,000, depending on the exchange rate); a two-test bundle and faster results cost extra (indicative, check the official site)
- Results: Usually within 48 hours; faster results in about 12 hours for an extra fee
- Score validity: Two years from the test date
- Run by: Duolingo, Inc.
Where it is accepted
- A large number of US colleges and universities
- Many Canadian universities and colleges
- Many UK universities for admission (not for UK visa routes that need a Secure English Language Test)
- A range of universities in Ireland, Australia and New Zealand
Preparation tips from our counsellors
- Confirm each university on your list accepts DET before you choose it; acceptance varies more than for other tests
- Take the free official practice test several times to get used to the fast pace
- Prepare a quiet, well-lit room with nobody else present, and read the proctoring rules carefully to avoid an invalid result
- Use the full time for writing and speaking tasks, and write in complete, well-structured sentences
- In fill-in-the-word tasks, pay attention to grammar and spelling as well as meaning
- Keep your eyes on the screen; looking away often can be flagged by the proctor
Frequently asked questions
Is the Duolingo English Test accepted for visas?
Generally not for student visas that require a government-approved English test, such as UK routes needing a Secure English Language Test or Australian visa applications. It is mainly used for university admission.
Can I take DET from home in India?
Yes. The test is online only. You need a computer with a webcam, microphone, speakers and a stable internet connection, and a quiet room.
What is a good DET score?
It depends on the course. Around 105–120 meets the requirement for many programmes, while selective universities may ask for 125 or higher.
Does Moksh sell Duolingo test codes?
No. Moksh has no connection with Duolingo. We only help you prepare and decide whether DET suits your university list.