TOEFL vs IELTS vs Duolingo: Which English Test Should You Take?

If you are planning to study abroad, apply to international universities, or prove your English proficiency for immigration or work, you will likely need to take an English language test. The three most commonly accepted tests are TOEFL, IELTS, and the Duolingo English Test.

Each of these exams measures English proficiency, but they differ in format, difficulty, testing style, cost, and global acceptance. Some universities prefer one exam over another, and some students perform better depending on the structure of the test.

Understanding the differences between TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo can help you choose the test that best fits your goals, schedule, and study style. This guide compares the three exams in detail so you can make an informed decision.

Overview of TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo English Test

All three exams evaluate English ability in academic or professional environments. However, their design and testing experience are quite different.

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is widely used for university admissions, especially in the United States and Canada. The TOEFL iBT focuses heavily on academic English used in university lectures and classroom discussions.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is commonly required in the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and many European countries. IELTS offers two versions: Academic and General Training.

Duolingo English Test (DET) is a newer exam that has gained popularity because it is shorter, cheaper, and can be taken online at home. Many universities now accept Duolingo as an alternative to TOEFL or IELTS.

Test Format Comparison

The structure of each test varies in terms of timing, question style, and delivery method.

TOEFL iBT is typically taken on a computer and measures four academic skills: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. The test emphasizes understanding university lectures, discussions, and academic texts.

IELTS includes the same four skills but offers both computer-based and paper-based options. One unique aspect of IELTS is the speaking interview, which is conducted face-to-face with an examiner.

Duolingo English Test uses an adaptive testing system. The difficulty of questions changes based on your answers, and the entire test is completed online using a webcam.

Test Duration

The total test time is one of the biggest differences between these exams.

TOEFL typically takes around two hours to complete. The exam includes academic reading passages, lectures, speaking responses, and written tasks.

IELTS usually takes about two hours and forty-five minutes. The speaking interview may occur on the same day or on a different day depending on the testing center.

Duolingo is much shorter than both tests. The exam typically takes around one hour and includes adaptive questions, speaking responses, and a short writing sample.

Because of its shorter length, Duolingo is often seen as the most convenient option for students who need quick results.

Scoring Systems

Each test uses a different scoring system.

TOEFL scores range from 0 to 120. Each section (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing) is scored from 0 to 30.

IELTS uses a band score from 1 to 9. Each section receives a score, and the overall score is the average of the four sections.

Duolingo scores range from 10 to 160.

Although the scoring systems differ, universities typically publish equivalent scores across the tests. For example, a TOEFL score of around 100 may correspond to IELTS 7.0 or a Duolingo score around 120.

Acceptance by Universities

Acceptance varies depending on the university and country.

TOEFL is accepted by thousands of universities worldwide and remains one of the most recognized English tests, particularly in the United States.

IELTS is widely accepted in the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and Europe. It is also commonly used for immigration purposes in several countries.

Duolingo is accepted by many universities, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic increased demand for remote testing options. However, some institutions still prefer TOEFL or IELTS.

If you are applying to competitive universities, it is always recommended to check the exact requirements on the university’s official admissions page.

Difficulty Level

Students often ask which test is the hardest. The answer depends largely on individual strengths.

TOEFL may feel more challenging for students who are not familiar with academic lectures or long reading passages. However, students who are comfortable using computers and typing essays often perform well on TOEFL.

IELTS may feel easier for students who prefer face-to-face communication. The speaking interview allows for more natural conversation compared with recording responses on a computer.

Duolingo may appear easier because the test is shorter, but the adaptive question system can quickly become challenging if you answer questions correctly.

In reality, all three exams are designed to measure similar levels of English proficiency.

Cost Comparison

Another important factor is the cost of the exam.

TOEFL usually costs between 180 and 250 USD depending on the country.

IELTS costs around 200 to 250 USD.

Duolingo is significantly cheaper and typically costs around 65 USD.

Because of the lower price and the ability to take the test from home, many students choose Duolingo as a first attempt before taking TOEFL or IELTS.

Test Environment

The testing environment can also influence your decision.

TOEFL is typically taken at an official testing center, although some home testing options are available.

IELTS is usually taken at a testing center, especially the speaking interview.

Duolingo can be taken entirely from home using a computer, webcam, and internet connection. However, strict rules apply to ensure test security.

Students who prefer a quiet home environment may find Duolingo more comfortable.

Result Delivery Time

The time required to receive your test results varies.

TOEFL results are usually available within several days.

IELTS results typically arrive within a few days to about a week depending on the test format.

Duolingo results are usually available within about two days.

Fast results can be important for students applying close to university application deadlines.

Which Test Is Best for Studying in the United States?

For students applying to universities in the United States, TOEFL remains one of the most widely accepted exams. Many American universities are very familiar with TOEFL scoring and testing structure.

However, many universities also accept IELTS and Duolingo today. In fact, some institutions publish equivalent score requirements for all three tests.

If you are unsure which exam to choose, review the requirements of the universities you plan to apply to. Taking a test that aligns with their preferred format may simplify the admissions process.

Which Test Is Best for Immigration?

IELTS is often the preferred exam for immigration programs in countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

Many immigration systems specifically reference IELTS scores in their eligibility criteria.

Although TOEFL may also be accepted in some cases, IELTS tends to be the more common option for immigration purposes.

How to Choose the Right Test

Choosing between TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo depends on several factors.

First, check which exams are accepted by your target universities or immigration programs.

Second, consider your personal strengths. If you are comfortable with academic listening and computer-based responses, TOEFL may suit you well. If you prefer face-to-face communication, IELTS might be a better choice.

If you need a fast and affordable option that can be taken from home, Duolingo may be worth considering.

Finally, consider your preparation timeline and budget. Some students take more than one exam to increase their chances of meeting university requirements.

Conclusion

TOEFL, IELTS, and the Duolingo English Test all measure English proficiency but offer different testing experiences.

TOEFL is strongly focused on academic English and is widely used by universities in the United States. IELTS is globally recognized and commonly used for both university admissions and immigration. Duolingo offers a convenient, affordable alternative that can be completed online.

The best choice depends on your academic goals, preferred testing style, and university requirements. By understanding the differences between these exams, students can select the test that gives them the best opportunity to demonstrate their English skills and succeed in their study abroad journey.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Which test is more accepted worldwide: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo?

TOEFL and IELTS are the most widely accepted worldwide and have been used for decades by universities, scholarship programs, and government agencies. Duolingo English Test acceptance has expanded quickly, especially among universities, but it is still not as universally accepted as TOEFL or IELTS. If you are applying to multiple countries or a large list of schools, TOEFL or IELTS is usually the safest choice. Always confirm acceptance on each institution’s official admissions page before deciding.

Is Duolingo easier than TOEFL or IELTS?

Duolingo can feel easier because it is shorter, taken at home, and uses quick question types. However, “easier” depends on your strengths. The Duolingo English Test is adaptive, meaning the difficulty can increase rapidly if you answer correctly. Some students find the fast pace stressful, while others prefer it. TOEFL and IELTS may feel harder due to longer sections and more academic content, but the pacing is more predictable.

Which test is best for studying in the United States?

Many US universities have traditionally preferred TOEFL, and it remains one of the most familiar tests for American admissions offices. That said, IELTS is also widely accepted in the US, and Duolingo is accepted by many institutions as well. The “best” test is the one that your target schools accept without restrictions. Some programs accept Duolingo for undergraduate admission but still require TOEFL or IELTS for graduate programs, teaching assistant roles, or professional licensure.

Which test is better for the United Kingdom, Australia, or Canada?

IELTS is especially common for the UK and Australia, and it is widely used for Canadian immigration pathways. TOEFL is also accepted in these countries for many university programs. Duolingo is accepted by an increasing number of schools, but not all. If you are applying for immigration rather than university admission, IELTS is often the more standard option because many immigration systems define eligibility using IELTS bands.

What is the biggest difference between TOEFL and IELTS?

The most noticeable difference is the speaking test. IELTS speaking is typically a live interview with an examiner, which can feel more natural for students who communicate better in conversation. TOEFL speaking is usually recorded on a computer with timed prompts. Another difference is the overall tone: TOEFL often feels more “academic lecture and campus discussion” focused, while IELTS includes academic content but can feel closer to general academic communication, depending on the tasks.

How do TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo compare in scoring?

TOEFL is commonly scored from 0 to 120, IELTS uses band scores from 1 to 9, and Duolingo uses a scale from 10 to 160. Because the scales are different, universities publish minimum required scores in the system they accept. Many schools also share a comparison chart (for example, TOEFL 100 vs IELTS 7.0 vs Duolingo 120), but score equivalency is not perfect. The safest approach is to focus on the exact minimum score required by your program and aim slightly above it.

Which test should I take if I am weak in speaking?

If speaking is your weakest skill, the right test depends on what makes you nervous. Some students find TOEFL easier because speaking is recorded and there is no examiner watching. Others perform better on IELTS because the interview is conversational and allows natural interaction. Duolingo includes multiple speaking tasks and can be intense due to time pressure. If possible, try a short speaking practice test for each format and see where you sound clearer and more confident.

Which test is best if I am not good at writing long essays?

Writing requirements vary by test. TOEFL and IELTS both test academic writing skills, but the tasks are structured differently. IELTS writing includes a task-based format (including describing data in Academic IELTS), while TOEFL writing is more integrated with reading and listening content in many versions. Duolingo includes shorter writing tasks but still measures clarity, grammar, and organization. If you dislike long essays, you may prefer a test that rewards concise and direct responses, but you should still train for academic structure: topic sentence, support, and clear conclusion.

Is Duolingo a good choice if I need results quickly?

Duolingo is often chosen for speed and convenience because it can be taken at home and results typically arrive faster than many traditional test schedules. This can be helpful when deadlines are close. However, you should plan for potential delays caused by identity verification or test security reviews. Also, some schools require official score reporting methods that can add extra time. If timing is critical, confirm both the score release timeline and the school’s document submission process.

Can I take TOEFL or IELTS from home like Duolingo?

Duolingo is designed as an at-home online test. TOEFL and IELTS sometimes offer online options in certain regions, but availability and rules vary. Even when home testing is available, it usually has strict requirements for equipment, room setup, and internet stability. Many students still prefer a test center for reliability. Before choosing, check the official test website in your country for the current options and policies.

Which test is cheaper: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo?

In most countries, Duolingo is significantly cheaper than TOEFL and IELTS. TOEFL and IELTS prices are usually similar to each other, though they can vary by location and currency. Cost matters, but it should not be the only factor. If your target schools do not accept Duolingo, a lower test fee will not help. Always confirm acceptance first, then consider budget.

How should I choose between TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo?

Start with acceptance: list your target universities or programs and confirm which tests they accept. Next, consider your strengths and test preferences. If you are comfortable with academic lectures and computer-based testing, TOEFL may fit well. If you prefer face-to-face speaking and a familiar exam style, IELTS may be better. If you need a flexible, at-home option with quick turnaround and your schools accept it, Duolingo can be a strong choice. Finally, consider your timeline: take a practice test, identify your weakest skill, and choose the test where you can realistically reach your target score fastest.

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