Everything You Need to Know About the Duolingo English Test Certificate for University Applications

Updated on 16 May, 2025

Bulbul Sharma

Bulbul Sharma

Manager- Content @upGrad

duolingo english test certificate

Do You Know?

  • India topped the list of DET test takers globally for the second consecutive year. In 2023, Indian students applied to programs in over 83 countries, a 9% increase from the previous year. 
  • Cities like Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Bengaluru were among the top locations for test registrations.

Duolingo English Test (DET) is an online, AI-driven English proficiency exam accepted by over 5,500 universities globally, including top institutions like HarvardMIT, and Yale. The test offers flexibility, allowing students to take it any time within 90 days of registration.

For Indian students aiming to study abroad, the DET offers a convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional tests like IELTS and TOEFL. This blog aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the Duolingo English Test certificate, its relevance in university applications, and its importance for students planning to study abroad.

Duolingo English Test Certificate: Overview & Steps to Take the Test

The Duolingo English Test (DET) has quickly gained traction in academic admissions, becoming a preferred choice for students across the globe, particularly for those applying to universities in English-speaking countries.

DET is an online, AI-powered test designed to assess your reading, writingspeaking, and listening skills, all within an hour. Its test pattern is as convenient as it gets: you take it from home, at your own pace, and get results faster than traditional tests like IELTS or TOEFL.

Why Should You Choose the Duolingo Test?

  1. Cost-Effective: At $49 (INR 4.1K), DET is a budget-friendly alternative. It's a major saving considering the average cost of taking multiple tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
  2. Convenience: With the test available online, it removes the need for travel and scheduling conflicts. You can take the test from anywhere, anytime, with a stable internet connection, webcam, and microphone.
  3. Speed: Get your DET results within 48 hours, a drastic improvement over traditional tests that often leave you waiting for weeks.

Now that you understand the basics of the Duolingo English test, let's go through the step-by-step process to ensure you're fully prepared and know exactly what to expect on test day.

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How to Take the Duolingo English Test?

The process of DET booking and taking the test is designed to be simple, but it’s a rigorous and accurate assessment of your language proficiency levels.

Let's break it down step by step.

Step 1: Create Your Duolingo Account

  • First, you will need a valid email address. You can either sign up or directly log in with Google.

Once registered, you'll access the test dashboard to book the test further and start the process whenever you're ready.

Step 2: Book Your Test

  • You will be transferred to the test options and fees as soon as you click the purchase button.
  • Next, choose your results delivery speed, which is whatever you prefer. 

Step 3: Pay the Fees

  • As you continue, provide details like your email ID and country, and pay the fees according to whichever payment method suits you.
  • As soon as you have made the payment, your receipt will be sent to your email, and you can proceed to learn the test rules and take the test.

Step 4: Take the Test

The test is adaptive, meaning that the difficulty of questions will change based on your previous answers. Here's what you'll encounter:

  1. Adaptive English Test: This section tests your reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. The questions get progressively harder or easier depending on your responses.
  2. Speaking Exercise: You'll be asked to respond to a prompt. This helps evaluate your speaking ability and fluency.
  3. Writing Exercise: Here, you’ll need to write a short response to a question or prompt.
  4. Video Interview: A brief video in which you’ll answer specific questions. This is to evaluate your language and communication skills in real-life scenarios.

Also Read: Duolingo vs IELTS vs TOEFL – Which Test Should You Take?

Taking the test is just one part of the equation. But how does the Duolingo English Test certificate fit into your university application process? That's what you’ll explore next!

Duolingo English Test Certificate for University Applications: Scores & Reports

Once you've completed the Duolingo English Test, the next step is understanding your Duolingo test scores and how to use them effectively for your university application. So, what do you do once you have your scores? 

You send your results to the universities you're applying to. This is a seamless process, and it's done digitally, which means you can easily share your scores with institutions, speeding up your application.

Let's see how to send your scores of the Duolingo English Test certificate for university applications:

How to Send Your Duolingo Scores to Universities?

You can send your scores to top universities, such as Harvard and MIT, although only 40 for free. If you need to send your results to more than that, Duolingo offers the option to purchase additional score sends.

So, here's how you can send your Duolingo English test certificate for university applications:

1. Log in to your Duolingo account: Head to the official DET website and log in to your account. There you will be able to see your past test scores.

Click on the send results icon in the top right corner.

2. Select universities: Select the universities of your choice and confirm your institution. Duolingo allows you to send scores to up to 40 universities for free.

3. Confirm and send: After selecting the university, you will have to confirm it. Confirm the university chosen and click on send. There you go!

Quick Tip: Double-check your university's admission requirements and DET eligibility before sending your scores. Some universities may have specific score thresholds or acceptance dates, so always verify before taking action.

Now, let’s see how to download your Duolingo English test certificate for university applications!

Downloading the Duolingo Report Card

Once you've taken the test and sent your scores, it’s also a good idea to check your Duolingo certificate and have a copy of your report card for your own records or for sharing with others (like academic advisors or recruiters). 

Here's how you can download it:

  1. Log in to your Duolingo account: Use your email and password to access your account.
  2. Go to your test results: On the home page, you should see your latest test results. Click on the certificate button right beside it.
  3. Print the report: You will have a complete report certificate on the screen with a detailed score breakdown. Click on the print results icon.
  4. Download the PDF: The report card will be available in a PDF format. Select the format and save it.

Understanding the validity of your Duolingo English Test certificate and where it’s accepted is essential as you plan your next move and ensure your scores align with university requirements.

So let's proceed!

Duolingo Certificate Validity and Acceptance

The Duolingo English test validity is for two years from the date you take the test. Any results you receive are officially recognized for two years, giving you ample time to submit them for applications immediately or after some time. 

While Duolingo is widely accepted, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Program-Specific Restrictions: Some highly specialized programs, especially in medicine, law, or other regulated fields, may require additional tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
  • Country-Specific Acceptance: Most English-speaking countries recognize Duolingo, but some exceptions may exist. For example, some institutions in countries like AustraliaNew ZealandCanada, and the UK may still prefer traditional tests.

Keeping track of your certificate's expiration date is essential, especially if you plan to apply to multiple universities or programs over a few years.

Now that you clearly understand how the test works, let's explore where your Duolingo English Test certificate will be recognized. 

List of Universities Accepting Duolingo Scores

Duolingo scores are accepted by over 5,500 universities worldwide, including prestigious institutions such as HarvardMIT, and Yale University. The test's acceptance has grown significantly in recent years, driven by its accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and fast results.

Below is a list of some top Duolingo-accepted universities for admissions:

University Name Country
Harvard University United States
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) United States
University of Toronto Canada
University of Oxford United Kingdom
University of Melbourne Australia
New York University (NYU) United States
University of Amsterdam Netherlands
University of Sydney Australia
Johns Hopkins University United States

Understanding the score requirements of top universities is crucial in planning your Duolingo test strategy. Let's get into the specific scores some leading global universities require.

Minimum Score Requirements by Top Universities

While numerous institutions accept Duolingo, each university may have its own minimum score requirement. Top universities in the USA typically require scores between 100 and 125 for undergraduate applicants. This range is comparable to a TOEFL iBT score of 80-100 or an IELTS band score between 6.5 and 8.0.

It’s critical to know what score you must meet to be considered for admission. Here's a quick overview of minimum score requirements for some top universities:

University Name Minimum Duolingo Score
Illinois Institute of Technology 110
Duke University 125
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) 120
University of Pennsylvania 120
University of California, Berkeley 115
Cornell University 110
Northeastern University 135
University of Melbourne 115
University of Washington 120
University of Chicago 120
University of Michigan 115

Note: Always check the latest requirements directly with the university’s admissions page, as score requirements may change yearly.

With this clarity on the validity and acceptance of Duolingo scores, you can confidently plan your next steps. 

Let’s explore the test preparation strategies you can adopt to ensure you score well and meet the requirements of your dream university!

Tips to Prepare for the Duolingo English Test

Preparation for the Duolingo English test certificate doesn't need to be overwhelming, especially with the right resources and strategies. 

The test evaluates four key areas: listeningspeakingreading, and writing. While the test pattern may seem straightforward, excelling requires focused practice in all these areas. 

Here's how you can approach your preparation.

1. Study Materials and Practice Tests Available for Duolingo

Duolingo offers a variety of resources, like prep guides to help students prepare for the test, including practice questions and sample tests that mirror the real exam experience.

  • Official Duolingo Test Sample: Duolingo provides free access to practice tests that simulate the actual exam format. DET is a 60-minute exam divided into:
    • Introduction (5 minutes)
    • Adaptive Section (45 minutes)
    • Speaking & Writing Section (10 minutes)

These help you understand the test flow, time management, and the types of questions to expect.

  • Duolingo English Test Prep Guide: Available on the official Duolingo website, this comprehensive guide covers every test section, like reading and listening, and provides valuable tips on what to expect.

2. Best Practices for Improving Your English Skills

Each section of the Duolingo English Test requires a specific approach to preparation. Here are some proven strategies to improve your English skills across the four areas tested:

  • Listening:
    • Practice with podcasts or audiobooks in English. Platforms like Spotify and Audible offer a wide range of options to suit various levels of listening skills.
    • Watch English-language documentaries & news channels like CNN or BBC News to familiarize yourself with formal and academic language.
  • Speaking:
    • Engage in language exchange programs or practice communication with peers, preparing for the test.
    • Use speech recognition tools such as Google Assistant or Siri to practice pronunciation and fluency.
  • Reading:
    • Read newspapers, articles, and novels in English daily. Websites like the BBC and The Guardian are excellent sources for academic-level reading.
    • Take reading comprehension tests online to improve speed and accuracy. Websites like Reading Rockets and News in Levels offer resources suitable for students.
  • Writing:
    • Practice writing essays or short responses on current events, social issues, or academic topics.
    • Focus on grammar, sentence structure, and vocabulary. Tools like Grammarly can help you fine-tune and improve your writing skills.

3. Online Resources and Duolingo Prep Platforms

Here's a list of helpful online resources and platforms to make your preparation easier. These will help you practice effectively, especially with a focus on the Duolingo English Test format.

With the right preparation materials, targeted practice, and a solid plan, you can confidently walk into your Duolingo English Test.

Download these guides to read Offline

Duolingo Syllabus
Duolingo test pattern

How Can upGrad Help You with the Duolingo English Test Certificate?

The Duolingo English test certificate has become a valuable tool for university applications, offering a cost-effective, convenient, and quick way to prove English proficiency. Its growing global acceptance makes it a strong choice for students looking to study abroad.

If you’re unsure where to start or need guidance on preparing for your Duolingo test and university applications, upGrad offers personalized career counseling to help you figure out this process. From expert advice on test prep to crafting a standout application, upGrad ensures you have the support you need to succeed.

So why wait? Book a 1:1 counseling session today and let upGrad experts guide you with personalized guidance on test prep, university applications, and more!

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FAQs

Can I use my Duolingo English Test score for undergraduate and postgraduate course applications?

Yes, Duolingo English Test scores are accepted for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. However, different programs might have specific score requirements, like an MBA, which may require a higher score than an MS. So, checking each university's criteria before submitting your score is essential.

Are there any specific Duolingo English Test score requirements for applying to US universities?

Most US universities like Harvard accept Duolingo scores, with 100-125 being the typical range for undergraduate admissions. Some top-tier schools like Northeastern University may ask for scores above 120, similar to the TOEFL's iBT score range of 80-100.

How does Duolingo’s test format differ from IELTS and TOEFL in terms of content and time management?

Duolingo is shorter and adaptive. It takes about 1 hour, compared to 2-3 hours for IELTS and TOEFL. While IELTS and TOEFL are fixed-format tests, Duolingo adjusts difficulty based on your responses, which makes it a faster and more personalized experience.

If I don't achieve my desired score in the Duolingo English Test, can I retake it immediately?

Yes, you can retake the Duolingo test as often as you like, but there is a 24-hour waiting period between attempts. This gives you time to review your mistakes and improve your skills, like grammar & vocabulary, before attempting it again.

What is the minimum Duolingo English Test score required for admission to top universities?

For most top universities, the minimum score is typically between 100 and 120. For example, Harvard and MIT require scores of around 120 to be competitive for undergraduate admissions, such as a B.Tech or B.Sc.

How can I improve my score in the speaking section of the Duolingo English Test?

To improve your speaking score, practice speaking English in real-world contexts. Use apps like Google Assistant to practice pronunciation and fluency, or record yourself speaking on various topics and evaluate your clarity and coherence.

Can Duolingo English Test scores be used for student visa applications or only for university admissions?

Duolingo English Test scores are primarily used for university admissions. However, many universities like NY University use these scores as part of the student visa application process, as they help confirm your English proficiency for academic success.

Is the Duolingo English Test certificate accepted by universities in non-English-speaking countries?

Yes, Duolingo is accepted by universities in non-English speaking countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, and France. Many European and Asian institutions, such as Yonsei University and NYU Shanghai, now accept it as part of their international student application process.

Can I cancel or reschedule my Duolingo English Test after payment?

Duolingo doesn't allow cancellations or refunds once payment is made. However, you have 90 days from purchase to take the test, so if you're not ready, you can wait and take it later within that window.

What are the technical requirements and setup needed to take the Duolingo English Test at home?

To take the Duolingo test at home, you’ll need a computer with a webcam and microphone, a stable internet connection, and a quiet, well-lit space. Before starting the test, you must also verify your identity with a government-issued ID.

Bulbul Sharma

Manager- Content @upGrad

Bulbul is a self-driven professional and an expert writer & editor. She has been a part of the ed-tech industry for the past 2 years now and is motivated to provide study abroad aspirants with factually correct and relevant information. Her knack for impactful writing makes her blogs worth a read!

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