The Duolingo English Test (DET) and IELTS are both English proficiency exams used for university applications, but they’re structured slightly differently.
The DET gives you a shorter, less expensive test that you can take from home, making it useful if you have a limited budget, cannot easily reach a test centre or are close to an application deadline. IELTS Academic has wider recognition and may be more suitable if you prefer a traditional test format.
However, visa rules depend on the country and the exact test version. IELTS Online, for example, cannot be used for immigration.
Key takeaways:
- DET offers lower cost, on-demand testing, shorter duration and quick results.
- IELTS Academic has broader recognition and more test-format options.
- Acceptance must always be checked for the exact university programme and visa route.
What is the Duolingo English Test?
The Duolingo English Test (DET) is an online English exam designed to test and measure your language proficiency. It takes one hour to complete and is mainly used as proof of English proficiency when applying to study abroad.
What is IELTS?
IELTS, or the International English Language Testing System, includes several tests designed for different purposes. For university admission, you will usually need IELTS Academic. IELTS General Training is mainly used for migration, work, training or study below degree level, while IELTS for UKVI is a secure version required for certain UK visa routes.
IELTS Academic can be taken at an official test centre or, in some countries, through IELTS Online. However, IELTS Online is not accepted for immigration purposes, and each university decides whether it accepts results from the at-home format.
From mid-2026, IELTS is moving away from fully paper-based testing. The exact changeover date will vary by country and market. In selected locations, a Writing on Paper option will allow you to handwrite your Writing answers while completing the other relevant parts on a computer.
Duolingo English Test vs IELTS: key differences
Although both tests assess reading, speaking, listening and writing skills, they differ in structure. IELTS takes longer to complete, and its speaking part involves interaction with a certified examiner, either in person or via video call. This section may be scheduled up to 7 days before or after the others. The Duolingo English Test includes Interactive Speaking, a computer-delivered task that simulates a conversation with a virtual character. You respond to 6-8 questions, with follow-up questions selected in real time based on your previous answers. The test also includes other speaking tasks, such as describing an image and speaking more on a given topic.
Scheduling is another key difference. The Duolinguo English Test can be started on demand, without booking a test-centre appointment. IELTS requires you to book an available session, although computer-based tests may be offered frequently in larger cities.
Duolingo tests deliver results quickly, usually within two days, although IELTS turnaround times may vary depending on the test format.
Their purposes also differ slightly: both tests are widely used for academic admissions, while IELTS is also broadly accepted for immigration and visa purposes. The Duolingo English Test is accepted for some visa-related processes, depending on the country or program.
The differences are also reflected in the cost, as DET is a more affordable option, offering a standard price regardless of location.
Here’s how the two compare:
Criteria | DET | IELTS |
Cost | $70 (standard fee) | Usually between $215 and $350 (Varies by country, test type and provider. Check the official local booking page) |
Format | Fully online (computer-adaptive) | Usually taken on a computer at an official test centre. IELTS Academic Online is available from home in some countries. The Speaking test involves a live conversation with an examiner, either in person or by video call. |
Test duration | 1 hour | 2 hours and 45 minutes |
Scheduling flexibility | Available on-demand (any time) | Scheduled sessions only available on fixed dates |
Acceptance | 6,000+ institutions worldwide | 12,500 organisations in over 140 countries around the world |
Results turnaround | Available in 2 days or same day for an additional fee | Typically in 2 days, but online results can take up to 6 days |
Convenience | Can be taken at home, although you need to follow strict testing rules | Available at 4,000 locations in 140 countries; may require travel to a test centre A home option (IELTS Academic Online) is offered only in some countries and subject to institutional acceptance. |
Primary use | University admissions | IELTS Academic is mainly used for university admission and professional registration. Other IELTS versions may be used for work, migration or specific UK visa routes. |
Which universities accept DET vs IELTS?
Over 6,500 universities worldwide accept DET. In the United States, it is accepted by all eight Ivy League universities and thousands of other colleges and universities. Leading institutions in Canada, the UK, Australia, and Ireland also accept the test.
On the other hand, IELTS is accepted by more than 12,500 organisations across over 140 countries, including universities, colleges, multinational companies, and immigration authorities.
Acceptance for both Duolingo English Test and IELTS can vary by degree level, department and programme. Always check the admissions page for the exact course you plan to apply to.
Which test is cheaper?
The Duolingo English Test is more affordable as its standard fee is $70, regardless of the country from which you take the test.
In contrast, the IELTS fee varies depending on location and specific format. For instance, I’m located in Luxembourg, where an IELTS test costs 299 EUR, whereas in Japan it costs around 150 EUR.
In some cases, additional costs might add up if you need to travel to a test centre near you.
Which test gives results faster?
DET results are typically available within two days. If you need them sooner, you can purchase the Faster Results option, which reduces the turnaround to 12 hours. The additional fee is currently typically US$39.
IELTS result times depend on how you take the test. IELTS on computer results are generally available within one to five days. Other formats may take longer, so check the latest official timeline when booking.
Overall, the Duolingo English Test offers the more predictable result time. However, IELTS on computer may also provide results quickly enough for most university deadlines.
Which test is better for visas?
IELTS is generally the safer choice if you may need an English test for both university admission and immigration. However, the exact IELTS version matters. IELTS Online cannot be used for immigration, and some visa routes require IELTS for UKVI or another approved secure English test.
University acceptance and visa acceptance are separate. A university accepting an English test does not automatically mean that the immigration authority will accept it for your student visa.
Ireland explicitly lists Duolingo English Test among the tests that can be used to meet its study-visa English requirements. However, its minimum visa scores may be lower than the scores required by individual universities.
Before booking either test, check the requirements on both your university programme page and the official immigration website for your destination.
Is DET easier than IELTS?
Neither test is objectively easier. The best option depends on your skills, working style and preferred test environment.
DET is computer-adaptive, but you need to answer quickly and follow strict at-home testing rules. You also need suitable equipment, a stable internet connection and a private room.
DET may feel easier if you work well under time pressure and are comfortable speaking to a computer. For example, the Duolingo English Test evaluates your reading skills by asking you to identify real English words, assess context comprehension by filling in missing letters in passages, and answer Interactive Reading questions.
You need to answer questions quickly because everything is time-boxed and you will not have much time to reflect.
IELTS may feel easier if you prefer a longer, more conventional exam with clearly separated sections and a live speaking interview. It includes extended academic-style reading and writing tasks, and takes more than twice as long. The reading section alone lasts 60 minutes and includes 40 questions, requiring you to read three different passages and respond to related questions.
The speaking section is taken separately and involves a one-to-one interaction in which you speak with a certified examiner. In contrast, the Duolingo English Test uses computer-delivered speaking tasks, including its adaptive Interactive Speaking section. Test sessions are recorded and reviewed as part of the certification and security process.
When does choosing Duolingo English Test make more sense
If you prefer an exam that lasts one hour and can be taken from the comfort of your home, then DET might make more sense, but make sure it is accepted by the university where you apply.
Also, if you’re close to a university deadline and need your certificate as quickly as possible, DET is more convenient than IELTS. It’s affordable, and you don’t need to travel to a test centre, which can be time-consuming and involve additional costs.
Even if it seems like the easier option, don’t underestimate the strict rules of the Duolingo English Test, as failing to follow them can lead to invalid results. For example, not setting up a smartphone to be used as a secondary camera or looking away from the screen can invalidate your test results. DET officially requires the phone camera to capture the computer screen and keyboard and instructs candidates not to look away except while typing.
When is IELTS the safer option
IELTS is a safer option if you need it for visa purposes, as it is widely accepted as proof of English proficiency for immigration applications. It can serve as proof of language before employers and professional bodies, when applying for jobs that require English skills.
It’s also a good option if you prefer face-to-face interaction and handwriting your writing answers. IELTS may suit you better if you are used to traditional academic exams and prefer a formal testing environment separate from your everyday surroundings.
FAQ section
Is the Duolingo English Test taken seriously?
Yes, more than 6,500 institutions around the world accept the Duolingo English Test, including all eight Ivy League schools and many other well-known universities. Its popularity is growing, and even more universities will likely accept it in the future. Check the English language requirements for your exact course before booking the test.
Can I convert my Duolingo score to IELTS?
You cannot directly convert an official DET result into an IELTS result because the tests use different scoring systems. Score comparison tables provide an approximate guide, but universities set their own DET and IELTS requirements.
Which country accepts Duolingo tests for a visa?
It depends on your study destination. Ireland explicitly includes DET among the English tests that can be used for study-visa applications. Other countries may require a different approved test or may allow the university to confirm your English level.
Do not assume that DET is valid for your visa simply because your university accepts it. Check the current rules published by the official immigration authority for your destination.
Sources used in writing this article:
- English language requirements for study visas in Ireland
- Updates to IELTS test delivery
- Duolingo English Test
