What Constitutes a Passing Score on the Duolingo English Test?
There isn't a universal "passing score" for the Duolingo English Test. The score you need varies based on the specific requirements of the institution or organization to which you are applying. Typically, a score over 110 is regarded as good, while scores above 120 are seen as excellent.
Interpretation of Duolingo English Test Scores
Score Range: DET scores vary from 10 to 160, increasing in increments of 5 points.
Subscores: In addition to an overall score, the test includes four subscores that assess different facets of language proficiency: Literacy (Reading and Writing), Comprehension (Listening and Reading), Conversation (Speaking and Listening), and Production (Writing and Speaking).
Different Scores Representing Degrees:
l Basic Proficiency:
Scores ranging from 10 to 55 indicate a basic understanding of the English language. Individuals in this category can engage in simple conversations and comprehend basic texts, making them suitable for familiar situations, such as everyday interactions and casual social settings.
l Intermediate Proficiency:
Scores between 60 and 85 reflect a growing ability to use English effectively. Those at this level can handle routine tasks in both work and educational environments. They are capable of understanding and discussing common topics, allowing them to participate in conversations and complete straightforward assignments.
l Advanced Proficiency:
Scores from 90 to 115 demonstrate a strong command of English. Individuals at this level can navigate more complex materials and engage in tasks that require critical thinking and analysis. Advanced speakers are confident in academic and professional settings, contributing meaningfully to discussions and producing well-structured written work.
l Superior Proficiency:
Scores above 120 are considered very good to excellent. Individuals at this level possess a high degree of fluency, enabling them to tackle sophisticated language tasks with ease. Their proficiency is well-suited for most academic and professional contexts, allowing them to engage deeply with intricate texts, lead in-depth discussions, and write persuasively on a wide array of topics.
Score Requirements for Different Universities
As the Duolingo English Test gains wider acceptance, universities vary in their score requirements. Many undergraduate programs expect scores between 100 and 120, while competitive graduate programs may require scores above 120.
The following are the score requirements for some well-known universities：
University of Toronto: A leading public research university, known for its academic excellence and innovative research programs. It attracts a diverse community of scholars and students from around the world, promoting inclusivity and intellectual curiosity.
Imperial College London: It founded in 1907, is a prestigious public research university in London, UK. Renowned for its focus on science, engineering, medicine, and business, it ranks among the top global institutions. The minimum requirement is 115 points; if you can achieve a higher score, that's even better.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology: The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a prestigious private research university located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. MIT has become one of the world's leading institutions in science, technology, and engineering.
The minimum requirement is 120 points; achieving 125 points would be a better option.
In summary, the scores for the Duolingo English Test (DET) are tailored to the specific needs of each test-taker, and requirements can vary significantly among different institutions. For further inquiries, you can visit the official DET website or explore our blog for more information.
Further Reading:
Duolingo English Test Question Type Intro 1：Write About the Photo