What is the DET?
The Duolingo English Test (DET) is an English proficiency test similar to TOEFL and IELTS, designed to evaluate students' English skills. This test can be conveniently taken at home or anywhere worldwide using a computer and a webcam.
- Test Duration: Less than 1 hour
- Results: Available within 48 hours
- Score Delivery: Unlimited free score reports to institutions
- Technology: AI and machine learning reduce test time by 4x
- Flexibility: Retake within 30 days, up to 2 attempts
- Cost: More affordable than TOEFL or IELTS
Key Advantages
- Take the test from home
- Receive results in 48 hours
- Two attempts per registration (within 30 days)
- Lower cost than TOEFL and IELTS
- Free mock tests on the DET website
Schools Accepting DET
United States
- University of Houston
- University of Texas at Dallas
- University of Pittsburgh
- New York University
Canada
- British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT)
- McGill University
- University of Calgary
United Kingdom
- University College London (UCL)
- University of Bristol
- University of Birmingham
Visit the DET official website for the full list. Some schools may require additional English proficiency evidence.
DET Exam Rules
Requirements
- Valid government-issued photo ID
- A quiet, well-lit room
- 60 minutes of uninterrupted time
- Stable internet connection
- Computer with Chrome or Opera, webcam, microphone, speakers
Guidelines
- Be alone in the room
- Keep ears and face visible
- No headphones or external materials
- No interaction with others or use of paper
- Do not leave the test window
DET Exam Content
- Reading: Word selection, missing letters, sentence completion
- Speaking: Sentence repetition, image description
- Listening: Sentence transcription, word identification
- Writing: Image description, short essays (50–100 words)
- Interview: Choose one of two topics and speak 1–3 minutes
Sample Questions: Describe your favorite animal. Share a funny incident. Talk about a childhood memory.
DET Scoring
Scores range from 10 to 160 (increments of 5). The four scoring categories are:
- Literacy: Reading and writing
- Comprehension: Reading and listening
- Conversation: Listening and speaking
- Production: Writing and speaking
This scoring system balances strengths and weaknesses across skills for a comprehensive evaluation.
DET vs. TOEFL & IELTS Score Comparison
For detailed comparison charts, visit the official DET website.
