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What is “Your test could not be certified” in Duolingo English Test?

For the majority of individuals, the Duolingo English Test is the first official assessment that can be taken at home without the need to visit a testing center. So to ensure the test's fairness and integrity, this new format has distinct rules and requirements compared to traditional assessments. This blog post explains why your Duolingo English Test may be unverified. Explore common mistakes and actionable steps to ensure your test score gets certified successfully.

If you accidentally violate the rules, you can watch the official video released by Duolingo about the English exam below.

What are the reasons why Duolingo English Test scores have not been certified?

Here are 11 common reasons for not being certified, which can help you successfully achieve your score.

1. Frequently looking away from the screen.

Maintaining constant eye contact with the screen is crucial during the test. Frequent distractions or a tendency to look away may indicate a lack of focus or engagement.

2. Not closing all programs on the computer.

Prior to starting the test, ensure all unnecessary applications are completely closed. This includes social media platforms, messaging apps like WeChat, and remote access tools such as TeamViewer and AnyDesk.

Create a checklist of programs to close before the test. Consider using a dedicated device for testing to minimize distractions.

3. Other people are present in the testing environment.

Your testing environment must be free from any external influences. Their presence could undermine the fairness of the assessment and distract you from your task.

Communicate with anyone in your space ahead of time about the testing schedule to ensure a quiet environment. If possible, use a private room.

4. Taking the test using someone else's name or ID.

It is strictly forbidden to take the test under another person’s name or identification. This constitutes cheating and can lead to serious consequences, including disqualification from the test.

Double-check your ID and registration details before the test to ensure you are using your own information.

5. Wearing headphones or earplugs.

Wearing headphones or earplugs during the test can create the impression that you are attempting to block out important audio cues or receive outside help.

If you need to minimize background noise, try to find a quiet location instead of using headphones. This will help maintain transparency during the test.

6. Either the camera or microphone is not turned on.

Both your camera and microphone should be fully operational and turned on throughout the entire testing period. This allows for proper monitoring and ensures that your answers can be clearly heard and recorded.

Test your equipment well in advance of the exam to resolve any potential issues.

7. Using writing tools or paper.

The use of external writing tools, such as pens, pencils, or paper, is absolutely prohibited during the test. These materials can be used for note-taking or communication, which could unfairly influence your performance.

Practice answering questions verbally or mentally to prepare for the test format.

8. Using predictive input methods.

Engaging predictive text input or auto-complete features can be seen as an unfair advantage. It is essential to rely solely on your own knowledge and skills to respond to questions during the assessment.

Disable any auto-complete features in your settings before the test to ensure compliance.

9. Leaving the application window at will.

It is important to remain focused on the testing application throughout the assessment. Navigating away from the test window could raise suspicions of seeking outside assistance or losing focus.

10. The test is incomplete and not uploaded.

Ensure that you complete all sections of the test and properly submit your answers as required. Failing to upload your responses can result in disqualification or an automatic failure.

11. Participating in the test using another account with a different email address.

If you have already registered for the test with a different email or account, you must refrain from attempting to take the test again under a new account, as this violates testing policies.

Keep a record of your registration details to avoid confusion and ensure you use the correct account for the test.

”A screenshot of the official exam rules for the Duolingo English Test.”

What to do if your Duolingo English Test was not certified？

1. If your test results are unverified, you can repurchase to take the test again.

2. If you encounter a technical error that prevents your test from being uploaded or verified, and you still have remaining attempts, you can retake the test for free.

3. You can appeal to your exam results. If you receive an email stating that your account has been blocked, or if an invalid result immediately consumes your credits, you can appeal to the invalid test result within 72 hours of receiving the results.

If you have any questions regarding your score certification results, please consult the latest DET guidelines or reach out to DET's official customer service.