How to Prepare for Duolingo English Test?

Duolingo English Test is one of the popular English proficiency tests which was launched nearly 5 years back, in 2019. The DET is one of the best options for everyone who wishes to move abroad for studies. 
 

Currently, the Duolingo test is accepted by more than 5,000+ institutions spread across countries such as US, UK, and Canada. In all these years, the DET’s recognition has increased rapidly as more universities have started to accept Duolingo scores! 

The Duolingo English Test is designed to assess your proficiency across multiple language skills. It includes several key sections that evaluate your abilities in a variety of contexts. 
 

Here’s a basic overview of the test structure to help you understand how it’s organised:

This table provides a snapshot of each section's duration, helping you get a clear picture of what to expect on test day.

Introduction and Onboarding
 

Like most popular proficiency tests, DET begins with basic formalities. 

This includes:
 

• Submitting your government-issued photo ID card. 
• Checking your device to ensure the camera, microphone, and speakers work correctly. 
• Reviewing the test rules and requirements that will be helpful while giving the test. 
   

Adaptive Test
 

This section marks the start of the actual test. It’s termed ‘adaptive’ because the test adjusts in real time based on your performance. So whenever you retake the test, you’ll find a different set of questions each time.

Here are the things that make up this section:

• A series of questions will be asked in a random order.
• The difficulty level and the pattern will be highly personalised depending on the performance of the candidates.

Writing Sample and Speaking Sample

In this section, you will be required to do the following:

• You will be given 2 different types of speaking questions, which you will be required to answer in 1-3 minutes. You can pick any one of the questions. 
• Similarly, in the writing section, you will also have 2 different questions, each of which you need to answer. The time allocated for this task will be around 3-5 minutes. 
   

Understanding the structure of the Duolingo English Test is essential for effective preparation. Knowing what to expect in each section allows you to manage your time efficiently, reduce anxiety, and perform at your best.
 

To understand the Duolingo exam pattern in detail, read this: Duolingo Exam Pattern & Syllabus 2024

The test requires you to focus on all four areas (listening, speaking, writing, and reading) to achieve a good score. Each of these areas requires a different type of strategy to perform better. 
 

So, we will see the section-wise preparation tips that will make you clearly understand how to prepare for the Duolingo English Test.

Understanding your Duolingo English Test (DET) score is key to mapping out your preparation journey. Let’s break it down so you can aim your preparation effectively and get into your dream university.

Duolingo scores are released within just two days of taking the test, ranging from 10 to 160. The scores are an average of the subscores from different sections: listening, speaking, writing, and reading.

There are two types of subscores in the DET:

• Individual Subscores: These are the scores you get in the four specific areas: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
• Integrated Subscores: These are averages of the individual subscores, showing how well you can use the language in real-life situations. They cover:
  • Production: Your abilities to write and speak.
  • Literacy: Your abilities to read and write.
  • Comprehension: Your abilities to listen and read.
  • Conversation: Your abilities to listen and speak.

You should aim for a minimum score of 110-125 to get into top universities like Harvard (125) and the University of California (115).

Once you receive your Duolingo results, your overall score and subscores will be included in a certificate, which will have a unique certificate ID, test date, and link to your certificate.

The DET scores align with the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference), which is an important international standard for assessing language proficiency.

Understanding how these scores are calculated and what they mean will help you focus your preparation and achieve the score you need for your desired university.

Here is the complete classification of Duolingo scores as per the CERF levels:

Understanding the Duolingo score conversion to CEFR levels helps you see where you stand compared to recognised language proficiency standards so you can set clear goals and adjust your study plan.

Getting a top score on the Duolingo English Test is all about smart preparation and using the right strategies. Start each test section with focused practice, and follow the tips we've shared to boost your listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. 
 

Regular practice and feedback will make a real difference. Plus, understanding how your score matches up with CEFR levels helps you set clear goals. 

Ready to take your preparation to the next level? Check out our Duolingo exam materials and resources to supercharge your study sessions and ace that test!