Is Duolingo English Test Harder than IELTS?
Is Duolingo English Test Harder than IELTS?
The Duolingo English Test is often considered easier than IELTS. It's adaptive, typically shorter in duration, and can be taken online. This blog post offers a detailed comparison between IELTS and the Duolingo English Test.
Overview of the Tests
What is the Duolingo English Test?
The Duolingo English Test is an online assessment of English skills, evaluating listening, speaking, reading, and writing. It employs adaptive technology to adjust question difficulty based on performance. No appointment is necessary; the test can be taken at home with a computer and webcam. Affordable and providing quick results, it's recognized by many universities worldwide. With its diverse question types, it's an excellent option for those seeking rapid English proficiency certification.
What is IELTS?
IELTS, or the International English Language Testing System, is a widely recognized assessment of English language proficiency. It evaluates four essential skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Available in two formats—Academic and General Training—IELTS is commonly required for educational and immigration purposes. Scores range from 0 to 9, reflecting varying levels of English fluency.
Comparison of Exam Frequency
The Duolingo English Test and IELTS differ significantly in terms of frequency and flexibility. The Duolingo test allows candidates to take the exam online anytime, offering the chance to test up to three times within a 30-day period from the comfort of their home. This high level of flexibility, along with results typically available within 48 hours, makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a quick assessment of their English proficiency.
In contrast, IELTS is conducted approximately 40 times a year, with 2 to 4 sessions each month. It requires candidates to take the test on specific dates and at designated locations, necessitating registration several weeks in advance. Results are released 13 days later. While IELTS boasts greater international recognition, making it a better fit for individuals planning long-term studies or immigration, the choice between the two exams ultimately depends on individual needs and goals.
Comparison of Exam Structure
The Duolingo English Test and IELTS exhibit significant structural differences.
First, regarding test duration, the Duolingo test is considerably shorter, lasting only 45 to 60 minutes online, whereas IELTS takes 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Second, in terms of score reporting, you can receive your results for the Duolingo English Test within 48 hours after the exam. If you opt for expedited service, you can get your results in as little as 12 hours. In contrast, IELTS results are released 13 days after the test date. Both tests are valid for two years. Additionally, multiple times of sharing IELTS scores incurs an extra fee, while sharing Duolingo scores is free.
| Structure | Duolingo English Test | IELTS |
| Examination Method | Online | Specific Location ( Test center) |
| Test Time | 45 to 60 minutes | 2 hours and 45 minutes |
| Test Scores Validity | 2 years | 2 years |
| Release of Scores | 48 hours after the exam date | 13 days after the exam date |
Comparison of Assessment Requirements
These two language exams have different testing requirements. For example, if you choose to take the IELTS, you won’t have to provide any equipment, as the test is conducted at official testing centers. If you decide to take the Duolingo English Test, you'll need to have a computer at home equipped with speakers, a camera, a microphone, and a stable internet connection.
| Requirement | Duolingo English Test | IELTS |
| Where to Register | The candidate should log in, register, and sign up for the exam on the official DET website. | The candidate should register on the online IELTS exam registration platform. |
| Equipment Requirement | Computer, speakers, camera, microphone, and a stable internet connection | None |
Comparison of Exam Scores
The scoring systems of DET and IELTS are different.
| Duolingo English Test | IELTS |
| 10-60 | 0-4 |
| 65-75 | 4.5 |
| 80-90 | 5 |
| 95-100 | 5.5 |
| 105-115 | 6 |
| 120-125 | 6.5 |
| 130-135 | 7 |
| 140-145 | 7.5 |
| 150-155 | 8 |
| 160 | 8.5-9 |
Comparison of exam Fees
An increasing number of people are opting for the Duolingo English Test, not just because it is convenient and quick, but also because it is significantly more affordable than IELTS. Each Duolingo test costs $65, and there’s a package option for two tests at $110. Furthermore, if you want to receive your results within 12 hours, you only need to pay an additional $39. In comparison, the IELTS exam costs approximately USD 245 to USD 255. And the cost of it varies per location or country where you will take it.
| Fees | Duolingo English Test | IELTS |
| Exam Fee | Global standard: $65 | Depending on the region, approximately $255. |
| Sharing Fee | Free | Candidates can request up to 5 additional score reports for free within one month of the exam date. Requests beyond this number or made after one month will incur a fee of approximately $16 |
Practice Tests Offers
The official websites for the Duolingo English Test and IELTS offer a variety of practice tests for candidates, most of which are free. However, relying solely on these official resources can make it challenging to achieve a strong score. To ensure success, it’s beneficial to explore both free and paid online materials that familiarize you with the test format and structure. If you're preparing for the Duolingo English Test, our website provides a range of practice questions, professional mock exams, and courses designed to help you excel and gain admission to your desired institution.
1. Duolingo Practice Question Bank
2. Duolingo English Test 1:1 Mock Exam
If you're studying for the IELTS, this website is a great resource for practice.
In summary, the Duolingo English Test and IELTS each have their own strengths and weaknesses. Duolingo is more convenient, making it ideal for candidates with tight schedules, while IELTS offers a more comprehensive evaluation, suited for those who require a deeper assessment of their English proficiency. When it comes to difficulty, Duolingo’s adaptive testing format means the level of difficulty varies based on the individual, whereas IELTS maintains a consistent level of difficulty for all test-takers. Therefore, the Duolingo English Test is not inherently more difficult than IELTS.