Let’s be real: choosing your English test (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo) is a crucial return on Investment (ROI) decision. Your goal is to select the test that best aligns with your budget, timeline, and application requirements, maximizing your success without unnecessary stress.
Every test is a strategic investment. IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE (around ₹17,000 to ₹18,500) offer a secure, traditional pathway, trusted for global universities and visa applications. In contrast, the Duolingo English Test (DET) provides massive advantages in speed and affordability, costing only $70 (around ₹6,192), taking under an hour, and delivering results in 48 hours.
The real question is: which test offers the best ROI for your specific study plan? Do you need the certainty of a traditional test, or the modern flexibility of Duolingo?
This guide will break down the true ROI of all four exams based on the three factors that matter most: Cost-Effectiveness (Budget), Speed (Deadlines), and Acceptance (Certainty). By the end, you’ll confidently know which test is your perfect strategic fit for the 2026 application cycle.
Understanding Each Test: IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE vs Duolingo
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1.IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
IELTS is one of the oldest and most widely accepted English proficiency tests. Students can choose between paper-based and computer-based formats. The test assesses Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, where the speaking section is conducted face-to-face with an examiner.
- Score Range: 0–9 bands
- Fees: USD 215-250 (₹19,067- ₹22,177)
- Best For: Students who prefer human interaction and traditional testing
- Acceptance: Very high across the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Europe & Asia
2.TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
TOEFL is a fully computer-based exam structured around academic English. It includes Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing sections, with all answers recorded and evaluated within the system.
- Score Range: 0–12(Source: en.wikipedia.org)
- Fees: USD 235 (₹20,843)
- Best For: Students applying to US universities or comfortable with long reading passages
- Acceptance: Strong in the USA and widely accepted globally
3.PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic)
PTE is an AI-scored, completely computer-delivered test with integrated tasks. Students often choose PTE because of its fast results and structured, tech-driven question patterns.
- Score Range: 10–90
- Fees: USD 200-220 (₹17,742 – ₹19,516)
- Best For: Students wanting quick results and AI-based evaluation
- Acceptance: High in the UK, Australia, Ireland, and growing globally
4.Duolingo English Test (DET)
Duolingo is an online, at-home exam designed for speed, affordability, and flexibility. It includes adaptive questions that adjust to your skill level.
- Score Range: 10–160
- Fees: USD 59-69 (₹5,231 – ₹6,118)
- Best For: Students who want a quick, budget-friendly test
- Acceptance: 5,000+ institutions across 100+ countries (Source: detpractice.com)
IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE vs Duolingo: Major Comparison Table
This table will help you compare all four tests at a glance based on format, cost, scoring, and convenience.
| Factor | IELTS | TOEFL iBT | PTE Academic | Duolingo English Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mode | Paper / Computer | Computer | Computer | Online at home |
| Test Convenience & Frequency | Available year-round at global centres | Available year-round at test centres; Home Edition available in many regions | Frequent slots at centres; test-at-home option available in select regions | Take anytime, anywhere; no test centres required |
| Duration | 2h 45m | 1h 56m | 2h 15m | 45-60 minutes |
| Score Range | 0-9 | 0-120 | 10-90 | 10-160 |
| Results Time | 3-5 days | 4-8 days | 24-48 hours | 24-48 hours |
| Speaking Format | In-person or computer | Recorded | Recorded | Recorded |
| Fees (approx.) | USD 215–250 | USD 235 | USD 200–220 | USD 59–69 |
| Global Acceptance | Very high | Very high | High | Growing rapidly |
As seen above, Duolingo has the shortest duration and lowest fee, PTE offers speed with AI scoring, TOEFL is heavily academic, and IELTS offers the widest acceptance across traditional destinations.
IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE vs Duolingo: Difficulty Comparison
| Test | Difficulty Level | Why |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS | Moderate | Natural language, but longer writing tasks |
| TOEFL | Moderate–High | Academic-heavy reading & listening |
| PTE | Moderate | Fast-paced, integrated questions |
| Duolingo | Easy–Moderate | Adaptive and shorter duration |
If long reading passages stress you out, the TOEFL may feel harder. If speaking face-to-face worries you, PTE or Duolingo may be better.
Best Test Based on Destination: IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE vs Duolingo
Students often get confused because different countries and universities prefer different English tests. Instead of only looking at fees or duration, your decision should be based on where you plan to study and which tests are widely accepted by top universities there.
Below is an improved comparison that not only lists the best test per destination but also highlights the common university preferences in each country. This helps students make a clear, university-level decision.
Country-wise Test Preferences (with University Acceptance Trends)
| Destination | Best Choice(s) | University Acceptance Trends |
|---|---|---|
| USA | TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo | Most major universities (MIT, Harvard, Stanford) traditionally accept TOEFL; IELTS is equally accepted; Duolingo is widely accepted at universities like Northeastern, NYU, and Colorado State. |
| UK | IELTS, PTE, Duolingo | Top universities (Oxford, Cambridge, UCL) prefer IELTS. Many modern universities (Coventry, Queen Mary University London, University of Stirling) accept PTE and Duolingo. |
| Canada | IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo | Most Canadian universities (Toronto, UBC, McGill) accept IELTS and TOEFL; over 150+ institutions including Toronto Metropolitan University, University of Calgary, and McMaster accept Duolingo. |
| Australia | IELTS, PTE, TOEFL | Australian universities (Melbourne, Sydney, Monash) heavily prefer IELTS and PTE due to visa regulations; TOEFL is accepted at many institutions but less common for visa purposes. |
| Europe | IELTS, TOEFL | Universities in Germany, Italy, France, and the Netherlands (TUM, Sapienza, Sorbonne, TU Delft) primarily accept IELTS and TOEFL; PTE is accepted in select institutions; Duolingo is still emerging. |
Note: Destination matters a lot. For instance, if you focus on the USA, TOEFL often remains the preferred option. In the UK/Australia, IELTS and PTE have strong acceptance. Duolingo can work almost anywhere, but you must check specific university requirements.
Which Test Should You Choose?
Most students get confused because all four exams-IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo, look similar from the outside. But the right test is the one that fits your learning style, your strengths, and your study destination.
Use this expert decision guide to choose confidently.
Best Test Based on Your Profile
| If You Are | Best Test(s) | Why This Is the Right Choice |
|---|---|---|
| On a limited budget | Duolingo | Cheapest exam + fully online. Saves centre fees, travel, and rescheduling costs. Perfect if affordability is your top concern. |
| Applying close to deadlines | Duolingo / PTE | Both deliver results in 24-48 hours. Ideal for students who need a fast turnaround for university applications. |
| More confident speaking to a real person | IELTS | Offers face-to-face speaking. Great for students who perform better in natural conversations rather than speaking into a computer. |
| Targeting US universities | TOEFL or IELTS | These are the most trusted tests by US admissions offices, including top universities and scholarship bodies. |
| Comfortable with fully computer-based tasks | PTE | AI-based scoring + consistent question patterns. Excellent if you type fast and prefer structured, tech-driven tasks. |
| Struggle with long writing tasks | Duolingo / PTE | Writing tasks are shorter and simpler. Works well for students who find IELTS or TOEFL writing more challenging. |
List your priorities (cost, speed, format, destination) and pick the test that aligns most with your profile, not what others say.
Conclusion:
Choosing between IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE vs Duolingo becomes much easier once you understand how each test aligns with your strengths, destination, and application timelines. IELTS remains the most trusted choice for students who prefer a familiar structure and face-to-face speaking, while TOEFL is ideal for those targeting the US or are comfortable with academic English on a computer. PTE suits students who want quick results and an AI-based system, and Duolingo is perfect for students looking for a fast, affordable, and flexible exam now accepted by 5,000+ universities in over 100 countries.
Before deciding, reflect on your comfort with each format, how early you need your score, visa requirements, and the specific test accepted by your chosen universities. Once these factors align, the right exam becomes clear and taking the next step in your admission process becomes much smoother.
If you're still unsure which test best supports your study-abroad plan, LeapScholar’s expert counsellors can help you choose the ideal exam based on your academic goals, country preferences, and timelines ensuring you start your journey with clarity and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ’s)
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Which English test is the best for studying abroad in 2026?
There is no universally “best” test your ideal choice depends on your study destination, budget, and comfort level. IELTS is the safest for global acceptance, TOEFL is preferred by many top US universities, PTE offers fast results with AI scoring, and Duolingo is the most affordable and quickest for results.
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Which test is the easiest: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE or Duolingo?
In terms of perceived difficulty, many students find Duolingo and PTE easier due to adaptive questions and integrated tasks. IELTS and TOEFL feel more academic and structured. However, difficulty depends on your English background, familiarity with computer-based tests, and test-taking skills.
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Do universities accept Duolingo English Test for 2026 admissions?
Yes. Over 4,500 universities worldwide accept Duolingo, including many in the USA, UK, Canada, and Europe. However, not all top universities do, especially for competitive programs. Always check the official university website before choosing the DET.
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Which test gives the fastest results?
Duolingo English Test provides results within 24–48 hours, the fastest among all tests. PTE follows with a 24–48 hour turnaround, while IELTS and TOEFL generally take between 3–8 days.
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Which test is better for visa applications?
For visas, IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL are widely accepted across the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and Europe. Duolingo is accepted for university admissions, but not for most student visa applications. Students should confirm both university and visa requirements before choosing an exam.
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What is the most affordable English proficiency test?
Duolingo is the most affordable option, costing around $59–$69, with easy online scheduling and at-home testing. PTE and IELTS are moderately priced, while TOEFL tends to be the most expensive depending on location.
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Can I retake these tests if I am not satisfied with my score?
Yes. All four exams allow retakes. Duolingo lets you retake the test twice in 30 days, while IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE allow unlimited retakes with standard test fees. Students should plan retakes early to meet university deadlines.
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Which test should I take if I am weak in speaking or writing?
If speaking makes you nervous, Duolingo and PTE may feel more comfortable since their speaking sections are recorded, not face-to-face. If writing is a challenge, PTE and Duolingo offer short, integrated writing tasks compared to the longer, essay-style formats in IELTS and TOEFL.
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