What is the difference between Duolingo and IELTS exams?
Both IELTS and Duolingo assess the four main English language skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. In IELTS, each section is scored on a band scale of 1–9, and the overall IELTS band score is calculated based on these sectional scores. In Duolingo, different question types are evaluated together, and the overall test is scored on a scale of 10–160. Duolingo is shorter, more affordable, and can be taken online from home, making it more convenient for many students. However, it is not accepted by all universities or visa authorities. IELTS is more widely accepted globally by universities, immigration authorities, and visa offices, and is generally considered the safer and more versatile option for study abroad applications.
More expert answers
Duolingo English Test (DET) and IELTS both assess English proficiency, but they differ in format, length, and acceptance.
- DET: Taken online from anywhere, lasts about 1 hour, and combines reading, writing, listening, and speaking in a single adaptive test. Scored out of 160. More affordable and flexible, but not as widely accepted for university admissions or immigration as IELTS.
- IELTS: Conducted at test centers (paper or computer), lasts about 2 hours 45 minutes, and has separate modules for Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Scored on a 0 - 9 band scale. Accepted by most universities and immigration authorities worldwide.
Choose IELTS if you need broader acceptance, especially for study or immigration. For more details on which test suits your plans, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.
IELTS, PTE or Duolingo: which should you take?
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