Duolingo English Test vs TOEFL: Key Differences Explained

If you plan to study abroad in an English-speaking country, one of the most important requirements you will face is proving your English proficiency. Universities typically ask international students to submit scores from standardized English tests such as the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or the increasingly popular Duolingo English Test (DET).

For many years, TOEFL has been one of the most widely accepted English proficiency exams for academic study. However, the Duolingo English Test has rapidly gained popularity because it is cheaper, faster, and fully online. Today, thousands of universities accept DET scores as part of their admission requirements.

This has created an important question for many students: Should you take the Duolingo English Test or the TOEFL?

Both exams evaluate your English ability, but they differ in many ways, including test format, cost, difficulty, scoring system, and global recognition. Understanding these differences will help you choose the exam that best fits your academic plans and personal preferences.

Overview of the Duolingo English Test

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a modern English proficiency exam designed to be accessible and convenient for international students. One of its most distinctive features is that it can be taken entirely online from home.

The test usually takes about one hour to complete and uses an adaptive testing system. This means that the difficulty of the questions changes based on your answers. If you answer correctly, the following question may become more challenging. If you answer incorrectly, the next question may become easier.

The Duolingo English Test evaluates four key language skills:

• Reading
• Listening
• Speaking
• Writing

Instead of separating these skills into long individual sections, many DET tasks combine multiple skills. For example, you may read a prompt and then speak about it, or listen to a sentence and type what you hear.

DET scores range from 10 to 160, and most test-takers receive their results within 48 hours.

Overview of TOEFL

The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is one of the most established English proficiency exams for academic study. It is accepted by thousands of universities around the world and has been used for decades as a reliable measure of academic English ability.

The most common version today is the TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test). Unlike DET, TOEFL is usually taken at an official testing center, although some online options may be available in certain locations.

The TOEFL exam evaluates the same four language skills:

• Reading
• Listening
• Speaking
• Writing

Each section is scored separately, and the total score ranges from 0 to 120. The test typically takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete.

Test Format Comparison

One of the most important differences between the Duolingo English Test and TOEFL is the test format.

Duolingo English Test format:

• Fully online
• Adaptive testing system
• Short integrated tasks
• Approximately 1 hour

TOEFL format:

• Usually taken at a testing center
• Fixed test structure
• Separate sections for each skill
• Approximately 2–3 hours

Because DET is shorter and more flexible, many students find it more convenient. However, TOEFL is designed to simulate academic environments more closely.

Cost Comparison

The cost of English proficiency exams can be a significant concern for many international students.

• Duolingo English Test: about $59
• TOEFL: typically $200 or more depending on location

This large price difference is one of the main reasons why DET has become so popular among students around the world.

Test Duration and Result Time

The length of the exam and how quickly results are available are also important factors when choosing a test.

Duolingo English Test:

• Test duration: about 1 hour
• Results available in about 48 hours

TOEFL:

• Test duration: about 2–3 hours
• Results usually available within about 6 days

The shorter test time and faster results make DET especially attractive for students facing tight application deadlines.

Score Comparison: DET vs TOEFL

Because the two exams use different scoring systems, universities often publish approximate comparison charts.

These comparisons are approximate. Each university may interpret scores differently, so applicants should always check official requirements.

University Acceptance

University recognition is one of the most important factors when choosing an English proficiency test.

TOEFL acceptance:

• Accepted by most universities worldwide
• Recognized by many governments and professional organizations
• Often used for immigration or visa purposes

Duolingo English Test acceptance:

• Accepted by over 4,000 universities
• Especially popular in the United States and Canada
• Still expanding in other regions

Although DET acceptance continues to grow rapidly, TOEFL still has broader global recognition.

Speaking Section Differences

The speaking section is another key difference between the two exams.

In the Duolingo English Test, test-takers respond to prompts while speaking into their computer microphone. These responses are recorded and evaluated using a scoring system.

In the TOEFL speaking section, candidates also speak into a microphone, but the tasks are usually longer and more structured. Many questions require students to listen to a short lecture or read a passage before responding.

Because TOEFL speaking tasks are often based on academic content, they may feel more challenging for some students.

Preparation Strategies

Preparation methods differ slightly depending on which exam you choose.

Preparing for the Duolingo English Test:

• Practice quick responses to prompts
• Improve listening and typing accuracy
• Become familiar with adaptive question types

Preparing for TOEFL:

• Develop academic reading skills
• Practice note-taking while listening
• Prepare structured speaking and writing responses

Because TOEFL has existed for many years, there are also many textbooks and preparation courses available.

Advantages of the Duolingo English Test

• Much lower cost
• Shorter exam time
• Results available quickly
• Can be taken from home
• Flexible scheduling

Advantages of TOEFL

• Widely accepted around the world
• Recognized by universities, governments, and institutions
• Designed to reflect academic English environments
• Long history and strong reputation

Which Test Should You Choose?

The best test depends on your goals and circumstances.

You should consider taking the Duolingo English Test if:

• Your target universities accept DET scores
• You want a cheaper exam
• You need results quickly
• You prefer taking the test online

You may prefer TOEFL if:

• Your university specifically requires TOEFL
• You need the test for immigration or professional purposes
• You want the most widely recognized English exam

Final Thoughts

Both the Duolingo English Test and TOEFL provide valid ways to demonstrate English proficiency for international study. The Duolingo English Test is a convenient and affordable option that continues to grow in popularity, especially among students applying to universities in North America.

However, TOEFL remains one of the most widely recognized English proficiency exams worldwide and is still required by many institutions.

Before choosing which test to take, carefully review the English language requirements of the universities or programs you plan to apply to. By selecting the exam that best matches your goals, budget, and timeline, you can make the application process smoother and more efficient.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is the Duolingo English Test accepted by the same universities that accept TOEFL?

Not always. TOEFL is accepted by a very large number of universities worldwide and is often listed as a standard requirement. The Duolingo English Test (DET) is accepted by thousands of institutions, but acceptance varies by country, university, department, and degree level. Some schools accept DET for undergraduate admissions but not for graduate programs, or they may accept it only for specific intakes. The safest approach is to confirm acceptance directly on your target university’s official admissions pages and verify the minimum scores for your exact program.

Which test should I take if I am applying to multiple countries?

If you are applying broadly across many countries and universities, TOEFL can be the safer choice because it has wider global recognition and is consistently accepted in more contexts. DET is increasingly common, especially in North America, but it is still not universal. If your target schools clearly accept DET, it can be a good option. If even one of your top-choice programs requires TOEFL (or does not accept DET), taking TOEFL may reduce risk and avoid last-minute testing problems.

Which exam is easier: Duolingo English Test or TOEFL?

It depends on your strengths and test preferences. Many students find DET easier because it is shorter, taken at home, and includes quick tasks that feel less “academic.” However, the adaptive format can be challenging because the test adjusts difficulty in real time, and you must respond quickly under time pressure. TOEFL may feel harder because it is longer and more academic, with tasks based on university lectures and reading passages. On the other hand, TOEFL’s structure is predictable and well-documented, which can make preparation more straightforward for some learners.

How do DET scores compare to TOEFL scores?

DET is scored on a 10–160 scale, while TOEFL iBT is scored on a 0–120 scale. Comparison charts exist, but they are approximate and should be used as planning tools rather than exact conversions. Universities sometimes publish their own equivalency tables, which are more reliable for that institution. If your target school lists a specific DET minimum score, follow that official requirement instead of relying on a general chart.

Does TOEFL look better than DET on an application?

In most cases, universities care about whether you meet the requirement, not which test “looks better.” If a school accepts both DET and TOEFL, meeting or exceeding the minimum score is usually the key factor. However, some competitive departments may have preferences or may be more familiar with TOEFL due to its long history. If you are applying to a highly selective program and both tests are accepted, aiming above the minimum (whichever test you choose) is often more important than choosing one test over the other.

Can I use the Duolingo English Test for visas or immigration instead of TOEFL?

Often, no. Many immigration systems and professional licensing pathways specify which exams are accepted, and TOEFL or IELTS are frequently listed. DET is primarily used for academic admissions. If your goal involves immigration, a work visa, or regulated professions, check the official government or licensing authority requirements. Even if your university accepts DET, immigration agencies may not.

What are the biggest advantages of the Duolingo English Test compared to TOEFL?

The main advantages are cost, convenience, and speed. DET is typically much cheaper, can be taken from home, and usually delivers results faster. Scheduling is also flexible, which is helpful if you live far from testing centers or need a score quickly. For students working with tight application deadlines or limited budgets, these benefits can be significant—assuming their target universities accept DET.

What are the biggest disadvantages of the Duolingo English Test compared to TOEFL?

The biggest disadvantage is that DET acceptance is still not universal. Another issue is that taking the test at home requires strict compliance with online proctoring rules. Your testing environment, equipment, lighting, noise level, and internet stability all matter. Technical problems or rule violations can delay results or invalidate your test. TOEFL, while more expensive and time-consuming, is taken in controlled test center conditions, which can reduce the risk of technical or environment-related issues.

What are the biggest disadvantages of TOEFL compared to DET?

TOEFL is usually more expensive and takes longer to complete. It often requires traveling to a test center and booking a test date in advance. TOEFL is also strongly academic, and some students find the longer reading passages and lecture-based listening tasks mentally demanding. Results may take longer than DET, which can be stressful if your application deadline is close.

How should I decide if my university accepts both DET and TOEFL?

If both tests are accepted, focus on practical factors: deadlines, budget, your test-taking strengths, and the program’s level of competitiveness. If you need a fast and affordable option, DET can be a smart choice. If you want the broadest recognition or you are unsure about department-level acceptance, TOEFL may be safer. Also check whether the program requires minimum section scores (TOEFL) or subscores (DET). If your weakest skill is writing or speaking, choose the test format that gives you the best chance to perform well in that area.

What is the best way to prepare for DET and TOEFL?

Preparation should match the test format. For DET, practice timed speaking and writing, improve listening accuracy, and build speed for quick tasks. For TOEFL, train academic reading and listening, practice note-taking, and learn structured response templates for speaking and writing. For both exams, use official practice materials when possible, simulate test conditions, and review mistakes carefully. If you are close to the minimum score requirement, targeted practice on your weakest skill often produces the fastest improvement.

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