Universities that teach in English require international applicants to prove they can study, write, and communicate effectively in the language. For years, tests like IELTS and TOEFL have been the standard. More recently, the Duolingo English Test has emerged as a flexible alternative accepted by thousands of universities worldwide.
Unlike traditional exams, the Duolingo test is taken entirely online. You do not need to travel to a test centre, and your results are usually available within two days.
Because the exam is completed remotely, strict technical and environment rules are in place to protect the integrity of the test. Your computer, internet connection, and testing space must meet specific requirements before you begin.
Preparing your setup in advance helps you avoid technical interruptions and ensures your test is valid.
Here is how to get everything ready before taking the Duolingo English Test.
Duolingo English Test setup requirements and technical checklist
Before starting the Duolingo English Test, you need to prepare your equipment and testing environment. Make sure you check all the requirements:
- A valid government-issued photo ID (usually a passport)
- A computer (Mac or Windows) with a front-facing camera, microphone and speakers
- A smartphone with a working camera
- A reliable internet connection
- A quiet room with no other people around
- Good lighting with your face clearly visible.
- Use natural light if possible, or place a lamp in front of you. Avoid strong backlighting or sitting in front of a window, as this can make your face harder to see on camera.
- A simple background (a blank wall works best)
- The Duolingo English Test desktop app installed on your computer (you cannot take the test in a browser)
Before starting your test, you should also run the official system check available in the Duolingo English Test platform. This tool verifies your internet speed, camera, microphone, speakers, app version, and secondary camera connection. Running it one or two days before your test helps you avoid last-minute technical issues.
The right setup makes the process smooth, so you should carefully review everything before starting the test.
Duolingo English Test (DET) includes a secondary camera, room scan, and an ear scan as part of its standard security checks.
Let’s break these down to make sure you’re prepared for everything.
How to set up the secondary camera for the Duolingo English Test
Duolingo may require a secondary camera using your smartphone to provide an additional view of your testing environment.
Since the test is taken remotely, this system helps verify that the test environment is secure, fair and transparent.
1. Primary camera
The computer’s webcam acts as the primary camera and verifies that you complete the test independently. That’s why this camera records:
- Your face and upper body
- Your eye movements
- Your behaviour during the test
Your face, hands, and keyboard should remain visible at all times so the system can verify that you are completing the test independently.
2. Secondary camera
The secondary camera, typically a smartphone, captures a wider view of the room. It must show:
- Your computer screen
- The keyboard
- The desk
- The surrounding environment
The additional angles allow the system to verify that no other materials or devices are being used. While a tablet is allowed as a secondary camera, a second laptop is not permitted.
A stable setup is important to prevent interruptions during the test.
If your phone falls, disconnects, or stops recording during the test, you will need to restart the test. For this reason, it’s important to fully charge your phone and use a stable phone stand (a mug or a stack of books can work as a simple phone stand).
To connect your phone as a secondary camera, you will scan a QR code from your computer screen and follow the setup steps in the Duolingo English Test mobile app. Your phone must be connected to Wi-Fi, fully charged or plugged in, and placed on a stable surface. You cannot hold your phone during the test.
How the Duolingo English Test room and ear scan work
Before the test begins, you will complete a 360-degree room scan to show your testing environment.
During the room scan, you will need to:
- Hold your phone and slowly rotate around the room (in some cases you may use the laptop camera)
- Show your desk and the entire surface
- Show the walls and the area around your computer
- Make sure the keyboard and screen remain visible
The process is user-friendly and very intuitive.
Simply log in through the secure Duolingo English Test application. The goal of this step is to demonstrate that there are no additional devices, notes or people in the room.
The ear scan is another quick verification step.
During this step, you need to show each ear to the camera to confirm that you are not wearing earbuds or other audio devices during the test.
The process is simple and takes only a few seconds.
Set up a clean and compliant workspace
Your desk must contain only the items allowed during the test:
- Your computer
- Your smartphone (as the secondary camera)
- Your ID
Remove any notebooks, papers, headphones, or other electronic devices before starting. A clear workspace helps the verification process go smoothly and reduces the risk of your test being flagged.
How long does the Duolingo English Test take?
The Duolingo English Test takes about one hour to complete, including setup and ID verification, a scored assessment, and writing and speaking samples.
No appointment is needed, and the results are ready in two days.
Which broken rules can lead to invalid results on your Duolingo test?
Even if your setup is correct, breaking certain rules during the test can lead to invalid results.
Avoid the following:
- Looking away from the screen (except when typing)
- Speaking or reading aloud outside of the designated speaking tasks
- Leaving the camera view
- Taking notes or recording questions
- Interacting with another person
- Using headphones or earbuds (your ears must remain visible)
Make sure all notifications are turned off on both your computer and phone before starting, and close any background applications that could interrupt the test. You should also set your phone to Do Not Disturb mode, as any notification can invalidate your session.
Final thoughts
Taking the Duolingo English Test from home can make the experience much more convenient than traveling to traditional exam centers. Being in a space where you feel comfortable can also help reduce stress and boost your confidence.
Before taking the test, make sure you practice beforehand and get familiar with the Duolingo English Test format. Once you create an account, you’ll find many free resources to help you improve your speaking, reading, writing, and listening skills.
When you feel ready, review your setup and complete your checklist to avoid technical issues.
After receiving your certificate, you’ll be one step closer to completing your college application.
Stay focused and calm, you’ve got this!
Best of luck!
