In the world of international education and migration, proving your proficiency in the English language is often a necessary step. To accomplish this, a variety of standardized tests are available, with two of the most commonly used being the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Duolingo English Test (DET). While both of these exams assess a candidate’s English language skills, they are structured differently and cater to different needs.
In this first part of the series, we will break down these two tests in detail, analyzing their formats, structures, and evolving roles in global education and migration systems. Understanding the core differences between IELTS vs. Duolingo is crucial in making an informed decision about which test best suits your needs.
The Rise of Language Proficiency Tests
English has become the lingua franca of international communication, making it essential for students, professionals, and migrants to prove their command of the language. Over the years, various testing systems have been developed to assess different aspects of language proficiency, from speaking and listening to reading and writing. Among these, IELTS and Duolingo have emerged as the most recognized and widely accepted tests.
IELTS has been around for several decades and is often the standard English test for academic and professional purposes. It has a long-standing reputation for being comprehensive, offering a deep dive into all aspects of English. Meanwhile, Duolingo, a more recent addition, has gained traction due to its affordability, accessibility, and quick results. But how do these two tests compare on practical grounds?
IELTS: The Traditional Standard
IELTS is one of the oldest and most respected language proficiency tests worldwide. Founded in 1989, it is managed jointly by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge English Language Assessment. It is designed for students who plan to study, work, or migrate to English-speaking countries such as the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia.
The test comprises four distinct sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Each section has a specific duration and evaluates different language skills.
- Listening (30 minutes): The listening test consists of four recordings, with each progressively increasing in difficulty. The recordings feature different accents of English, making it a thorough test of understanding spoken English in diverse contexts.
- Reading (60 minutes): The reading section tests the ability to understand a variety of texts, ranging from descriptive to analytical. It contains different question types, including multiple-choice and matching headings, and is structured around academic passages for the academic version, and general everyday texts for the general training version.
- Writing (60 minutes): In this section, candidates are asked to complete two tasks. One involves describing visual information (like graphs or charts), while the second task requires writing an essay on a given topic. It tests the ability to express ideas clearly and coherently in writing.
- Speaking (11-14 minutes): The speaking test is an in-person interview with an examiner. It is divided into three parts: an introduction, a discussion on familiar topics, and a longer speech on a given topic, followed by a discussion.
The test is typically taken at certified testing centers, and each section is timed individually. The speaking test, in particular, stands out because it is conducted face-to-face, offering a human interaction component. This traditional testing environment is favored by many universities and employers who want to assess a candidate’s proficiency in a controlled, standardized manner.
Duolingo: A Modern Solution
The Duolingo English Test, on the other hand, offers a more contemporary approach to language testing. Launched in 2016, Duolingo was designed to be an affordable, accessible, and user-friendly alternative to traditional exams like IELTS and TOEFL. It has risen in popularity due to its convenience and cost-effectiveness.
Duolingo is entirely digital and can be taken from home, making it a more accessible option for candidates who may not have easy access to testing centers. The test includes a series of adaptive questions that adjust in difficulty based on your previous answers. This adaptive approach helps to assess a wider range of skills more efficiently.
The structure of Duolingo is straightforward and designed to be completed in one sitting. The test comprises four main sections:
- Introduction and Video Interview (10 minutes): This part allows the test-taker to introduce themselves and speak on various topics. It’s recorded for later analysis, which is then used to assess speaking ability.
- Adaptive Test (45 minutes): The main part of the test involves reading, listening, speaking, and writing questions. The test adapts to the user’s performance, with the difficulty increasing or decreasing based on previous responses. The test lasts for around 45 minutes, much shorter than the IELTS.
The most unique feature of the Duolingo test is its online format. The test can be taken at home, anytime, without the need for a physical test center. The entire process is done through a webcam, where the candidate’s face and voice are monitored throughout the test. This innovative format reflects the growing demand for digital solutions in language assessment.
Accessibility and Convenience: A Game Changer
One of the primary advantages of Duolingo over IELTS is its accessibility. Traditional tests like IELTS require candidates to visit a physical test center, often several weeks in advance, to book an exam date. This can be a challenge for those living in remote areas or places where testing centers are scarce.
In comparison, Duolingo offers greater flexibility. It can be taken anytime and anywhere, as long as you have access to a computer and a stable internet connection. This convenience is especially valuable for non-traditional students, those with tight schedules, or people living in countries with fewer test center options.
The reduced cost is another critical factor in Duolingo’s growing popularity. The Duolingo English Test costs around $59 USD, which is significantly cheaper than the IELTS, which can cost anywhere between $215 to $250 USD, depending on the location. For students on a budget, this difference can be a deciding factor.
Global Recognition and Acceptance
IELTS is widely recognized by universities, immigration authorities, and employers across the globe. It is accepted by more than 10,000 institutions worldwide, including the most prestigious universities in the United States, Canada, Australia, and the UK. It is also the preferred test for visa and immigration purposes in many countries.
While Duolingo is still relatively new, it is gaining acceptance rapidly. Over 3,000 universities and institutions worldwide now accept Duolingo test results, including several leading universities in the U.S., Canada, and the UK. This shift is particularly evident in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, during which many institutions began accepting Duolingo to facilitate remote testing and ensure continued admissions.
However, it’s important to note that while Duolingo is accepted by a growing number of universities, it is not yet as widely recognized as IELTS. Some highly competitive programs may still require IELTS scores, so it’s essential to check the admission requirements of your chosen institution before making your decision.
The Right Choice for You
Both IELTS and Duolingo offer valuable insights into a candidate’s English proficiency. If you need a comprehensive and traditional test with a long history of global acceptance, IELTS is the better choice. It is the gold standard for English proficiency testing and remains the preferred option for many universities and employers worldwide.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more affordable, flexible, and convenient option, Duolingo might be the better fit. It provides a quicker, more accessible test-taking experience and is increasingly accepted by institutions, especially those that cater to international students in a digital-first world.
A Closer Look at Scoring Systems and What They Mean for You
As you navigate the world of English language proficiency tests, understanding the scoring systems of the IELTS and Duolingo English Test (DET) is essential. While both tests aim to evaluate your command of the English language, the way they score and report results differs. In this part of the series, we will break down the scoring systems of IELTS and Duolingo, discussing how each test measures proficiency, the scoring range, and what these scores mean for your academic or immigration goals.
IELTS Scoring: A Detailed Breakdown
The IELTS test uses a band score system, where the results are reported on a scale from 1 to 9. Each of the four components—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—is scored individually, and an overall band score is calculated as an average of these scores. This system provides a clear picture of a candidate’s strengths and weaknesses in specific areas of language proficiency.
Individual Section Scores
Each section of the IELTS test is scored separately, with the following components:
- Listening: The listening section is scored on a scale from 0 to 9. There are 40 questions in this section, and each correct answer receives one mark. The total number of correct answers is then converted into a band score.
- Reading: The reading test is also scored from 0 to 9. It contains 40 questions, and the score is based on the number of correct responses. The difficulty of the reading passages increases as you progress through the test, allowing a nuanced evaluation of reading comprehension.
- Writing: Writing is scored on a 0 to 9 scale as well. The test consists of two tasks: Task 1 requires you to describe visual data or information, while Task 2 asks for an essay on a given topic. Each task is scored separately based on criteria such as task achievement, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy. The scores from both tasks are then averaged to generate the final writing score.
- Speaking: The speaking section is scored based on fluency, pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary. This section is conducted in person with an examiner, and it evaluates your ability to communicate effectively in spoken English. Just like the writing section, the speaking score is derived from various criteria, including the ability to articulate thoughts clearly and use complex language structures.
Overall Band Score
Once the scores for the individual sections are calculated, the overall band score is determined. The overall score is an average of the four section scores, rounded to the nearest half-band. For example, if you score 7.5 in Listening, 6.5 in Reading, 7.0 in Writing, and 6.0 in Speaking, your overall score will be the average of these, rounded to 6.5.
Here is a breakdown of what each IELTS band score represents:
- Band 9: Expert user – Full operational command of the language, with complete understanding and effective communication.
- Band 8: Very good user – Few errors, but excellent understanding and communication.
- Band 7: Good user – Generally effective use of English with occasional mistakes.
- Band 6: Competent user – Can handle most situations but may struggle with complex language.
- Band 5: Modest user – Limited ability to communicate, especially in unfamiliar situations.
- Band 4 and below: Limited to very poor ability – Significant difficulty in communication.
Most universities and institutions typically require a minimum overall band score of 6.0 to 7.0 for admission, although more competitive programs may ask for higher scores.
Duolingo Scoring: The Adaptive Approach
The Duolingo English Test takes a different approach by offering a more modern and adaptive scoring system. Unlike IELTS, which uses a static band score system, Duolingo employs a scaled score range from 10 to 160. This range is based on the performance during the adaptive test, which adjusts its difficulty level according to the answers you provide.
Test Components and Scoring
The Duolingo test includes a mix of reading, listening, speaking, and writing tasks, each contributing to the overall score. The adaptive test uses a sophisticated algorithm to adjust the difficulty of questions in real time, based on how well the test-taker performs. This means that if you answer questions correctly, the system will present increasingly difficult tasks, and if you struggle with certain questions, the test will adjust to offer easier questions.
In addition to the adaptive score, the Duolingo test also provides a video interview and a writing sample, which are scored separately and analyzed by artificial intelligence. These scores are used to assess speaking fluency, pronunciation, and grammar usage.
What Do Duolingo Scores Mean?
Duolingo uses a unique scaling system, where scores range from 10 to 160. This scale is divided into different proficiency levels:
- 10-55: Beginner to elementary proficiency in English. At this level, the test-taker may have limited vocabulary and struggle to communicate effectively.
- 60-85: Intermediate proficiency. At this range, candidates can understand and use simple language and phrases but may struggle with more complex concepts.
- 90-115: Advanced proficiency. Candidates scoring in this range can understand more complex language and can express themselves well in both written and spoken forms.
- 120-160: Near-native proficiency. A score in this range indicates a high level of fluency and the ability to use English in various professional and academic contexts.
For universities, a Duolingo score of 100 to 120 is often seen as comparable to a 6.5 to 7.0 IELTS score. However, since Duolingo is a newer test, there is some variation in how different institutions interpret Duolingo scores.
Comparing IELTS and Duolingo Scores
One of the main advantages of Duolingo’s scoring system is its adaptability. The test continuously adjusts based on performance, which means that the questions are better tailored to the individual’s proficiency level. This can provide a more accurate measure of someone’s abilities compared to a standardized test like IELTS, where the difficulty level remains fixed.
However, this also presents a challenge: since Duolingo is a newer test, it may not be as widely understood or accepted by all institutions or immigration authorities. Therefore, it is essential to verify whether your institution of choice accepts Duolingo scores and to understand how their specific requirements align with the Duolingo scoring system.
On the other hand, the IELTS band system provides a more traditional, universally recognized framework for measuring English proficiency. Its fixed scoring system makes it easier to compare scores across various test-takers and understand what is required for university admission or immigration purposes.
Which Test Should You Take?
Ultimately, the choice between IELTS and Duolingo depends on your personal goals, timeline, and the institutions you plan to apply to. Here are some key factors to consider when making your decision:
- Test Accessibility: If you need a test that can be taken from home and offers quick results, Duolingo might be your best bet. It’s more affordable and convenient for students in remote areas or those with tight schedules.
- Recognition: If you’re applying to a highly competitive program or an institution that traditionally requires IELTS scores, it might be safer to stick with the IELTS. While Duolingo is gaining recognition, it’s still not as universally accepted as IELTS.
- Time and Cost: Duolingo’s quick turnaround and low cost make it an attractive choice if you need to test on a budget or within a short time frame.
The Testing Experience – Comparing IELTS and Duolingo
When choosing between IELTS and the Duolingo English Test (DET), the testing experience plays a crucial role in determining which test is right for you. This part of the series delves deep into the experience of sitting for these exams, comparing test formats, test-taking environments, test duration, and accessibility. By understanding what each test entails in terms of practical logistics, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision about which test suits your needs.
IELTS: The Traditional Testing Experience
IELTS has long been a staple in language proficiency testing, known for its comprehensive structure and rigorous testing environment. The test is conducted in either a computer-based or paper-based format, except the speaking test, which is always conducted face-to-face with a trained examiner.
Test Format
The IELTS exam consists of four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The Listening, Reading, and Writing sections are taken in one sitting, while the Speaking section is scheduled separately, either on the same day or within a week of the other sections.
- Listening: The listening test lasts for about 30 minutes. You will listen to four audio recordings, ranging from conversations to monologues, and answer questions related to what you hear. It’s crucial to stay focused and take notes efficiently, as there’s no chance to replay the recordings.
- Reading: The reading section lasts 60 minutes and is designed to test your ability to understand written English. You’ll answer a series of questions based on three reading passages of increasing complexity. The content may include academic articles, descriptive texts, and factual information. Time management is essential in this section, as the questions require detailed attention to specific details in the text.
- Writing: The writing section is divided into two tasks. Task 1 asks you to summarize visual data (e.g., graphs, tables, or charts) or describe a process, while Task 2 involves writing an essay in response to a question or argument. You’ll have 60 minutes to complete both tasks.
- Speaking: The speaking test is conducted in person with an IELTS examiner. It lasts about 11 to 14 minutes and is structured in three parts: an introduction, a longer monologue where you speak on a specific topic, and a discussion on related themes. The interview is designed to assess fluency, pronunciation, and language complexity.
Test Environment and Accessibility
The IELTS exam is traditionally taken at designated test centers, either in computer labs or with paper and pencil. Since the test is administered in a formal setting, it may be a little intimidating for those who are not accustomed to high-stakes exams. You’ll need to bring valid identification and arrive at the test center at least 30 minutes before the exam begins.
Although computer-based IELTS is becoming more common, it’s important to note that the speaking test is still conducted face-to-face, which some candidates find more challenging than a recorded test.
Test Duration
The entire IELTS exam takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes, excluding the speaking test. This is a significant time commitment, and candidates should be prepared for a long, intense testing experience. Moreover, since the speaking test is scheduled separately, it could add to the overall test time.
Duolingo: A Modern, At-Home Testing Experience
The Duolingo English Test presents a very different testing experience compared to IELTS, offering an entirely online format that you can take from the comfort of your home. This flexibility makes Duolingo a popular choice for candidates who need a quick, accessible, and less formal test environment.
Test Format
The Duolingo test is adaptive and typically takes about 1 hour to complete. It evaluates all four language skills (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) but in a more integrated manner, without separating each skill into distinct sections.
- Adaptive Questions: Duolingo uses a unique approach to testing where the difficulty of questions adapts based on your previous answers. If you perform well, the test becomes harder, and if you struggle, the questions become easier. This ensures that your score reflects your actual proficiency level rather than your ability to handle a fixed set of questions.
- Integrated Skills: Unlike IELTS, which separates each skill into distinct sections, Duolingo integrates the language skills within each question. For instance, you may listen to an audio clip and then be asked to write a response, combining reading, writing, and listening into one task.
- Speaking & Writing: The speaking tasks are typically focused on pronunciation and fluency and may require you to describe an image or respond to a prompt in spoken English. For writing, you’ll be asked to write a short response to a question, allowing the system to assess both your vocabulary and grammatical range.
Test Environment and Accessibility
The Duolingo test is taken online, meaning you can complete it in a self-paced, at-home setting. To take the test, all you need is a computer with a webcam and microphone, as well as a stable internet connection. The test also requires you to be in a quiet room without any distractions, as your surroundings will be monitored via the webcam during the test. The test will ask you to take a photo of yourself and may even scan the room to ensure the integrity of the testing process.
Test Duration
The Duolingo test typically takes about 1 hour, significantly shorter than IELTS. This makes it more convenient for candidates who need a quick, time-efficient way to demonstrate their language proficiency. The shorter test duration also means that you can expect a less stressful experience overall, especially if you prefer completing the exam at home in a more comfortable environment.
Test Results and Reporting
One of the significant advantages of the Duolingo English Test is the fast turnaround on results. Duolingo scores are typically available within 48 hours after completing the test. The test offers instant access to your score report, which you can then share with institutions. This makes Duolingo an attractive option for candidates who need their results quickly, especially when deadlines are tight.
In contrast, IELTS results take about 13 days to be released after the test. If you take a computer-based IELTS, you’ll receive your results faster than paper-based IELTS, but still not as quickly as Duolingo.
Which Test Offers the Best Testing Experience?
The answer to this depends on your personal preferences and requirements. Here’s a quick comparison:
- IELTS offers a more formal, structured experience with the personal interaction of the speaking section. If you’re looking for a globally recognized exam that provides a detailed breakdown of your English proficiency across multiple components, IELTS may be a better option.
- Duolingo, on the other hand, offers a convenient and flexible online experience, ideal for those who need quick results and prefer to take the test from home. If you’re looking for a more accessible, time-efficient test, Duolingo may be a better choice.
Costs, Availability, and Acceptance – IELTS vs. Duolingo
The decision between the IELTS and Duolingo English Test (DET) doesn’t just hinge on the testing experience alone. Practical considerations such as cost, availability, and acceptance by educational institutions and immigration authorities also play a significant role. This part of the series will explore these aspects in detail, providing a comprehensive comparison of how each test fares in these crucial areas.
Cost Comparison: IELTS vs. Duolingo
One of the most important factors that prospective test-takers consider when deciding between the IELTS and Duolingo is cost. Given that both tests assess similar language skills, it’s crucial to understand the financial implications of each.
IELTS: Higher Costs
The IELTS exam is known for its higher fees compared to many other language proficiency tests, including Duolingo. The exact cost of the exam can vary depending on the test location, format (computer-based or paper-based), and local administrative fees. On average, the IELTS exam can cost between $200 and $250 USD globally, though some locations may charge more.
In addition to the base exam fee, there are other costs that candidates may incur, such as:
- Rescheduling fees if you need to change your test date.
- Additional services, such as extra score reports sent to universities or organizations, may incur extra charges.
While the higher costs associated with IELTS might be a deterrent for some, it’s important to note that the test provides extensive, globally recognized certification of language proficiency, which can justify the cost for candidates aiming for university admissions or immigration purposes.
Duolingo: A More Affordable Option
In contrast, the Duolingo English Test is known for its affordability. At a fraction of the cost of IELTS, Duolingo typically charges around USD 49 per test. This lower price point makes Duolingo an attractive option for those on a budget or those who do not need a high-stakes exam. The affordability of Duolingo is particularly appealing for students and immigrants who need an accessible solution for proving their English proficiency.
Furthermore, Duolingo’s all-in-one testing format reduces the potential for additional costs, as there are no separate fees for individual sections or score reports.
Availability: Flexibility and Global Reach
Another crucial factor when considering language proficiency exams is availability. How easily can candidates access each test? The flexibility in terms of scheduling and location plays a pivotal role in a candidate’s ability to take the exam at their convenience.
IELTS: Wide Global Availability
IELTS is available in over 140 countries worldwide, with test centers in major cities and remote regions alike. This extensive availability means that, regardless of where you live, you are likely to find a nearby test center where you can take the exam. The computer-based IELTS test is also widely available, providing further flexibility for test-takers.
However, test dates for IELTS can be limited depending on the location, and some regions may have fewer available slots than others. This can be a challenge if you have a tight deadline and need to book a test date quickly. In addition, you’ll need to be physically present at the test center on the day of the exam, which may incur travel costs and additional time commitments.
Duolingo: Ultimate Flexibility and Accessibility
One of the standout advantages of the Duolingo English Test is its online format, which offers unparalleled flexibility in terms of availability. Duolingo can be taken from the comfort of your home, at any time of day or night, without the need for traveling to a test center. All you need is a computer, a webcam, and a stable internet connection.
This means that test-takers have the freedom to schedule their exam at their convenience, without worrying about test center availability or travel restrictions. The ability to take the exam from home also eliminates the pressure of a formal test environment, making it a less stressful option for many candidates.
Acceptance by Institutions and Immigration Authorities
A critical factor in the decision-making process is whether the test is widely accepted by universities and immigration authorities. You might be keen to know whether institutions and governments accept the Duolingo test as a legitimate measure of English proficiency or whether you will need to rely on IELTS to meet the specific criteria.
IELTS: Widely Recognized and Accepted
IELTS enjoys a long-standing reputation for being universally recognized and accepted by over 10,000 institutions across more than 140 countries. This includes prestigious universities, colleges, and immigration authorities worldwide. IELTS is often the preferred test for academic admissions, visa applications, and even employment opportunities, particularly in English-speaking countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and the United States.
IELTS scores are recognized by a wide range of government agencies and employers, which adds to their value in the global job market. For those who plan to apply for permanent residency or work visas, IELTS can be a crucial part of the application process.
Duolingo: Increasing Recognition, But Still Limited
Although the Duolingo English Test has gained popularity in recent years, particularly among universities in the United States, its acceptance is still somewhat more limited than IELTS. However, Duolingo’s acceptance has been increasing steadily, especially as universities have adapted to the challenges of online learning and remote assessments.
At the time of writing, Duolingo is accepted by more than 3,000 institutions globally, including several universities in Canada, the U.S., and Europe. While many institutions have started to accept Duolingo as a valid measure of English proficiency, it may not be universally accepted in all regions, especially for visa applications or immigration purposes.
Conclusion
Ultimately, your choice between IELTS and Duolingo will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and circumstances. Here are a few key points to help you decide:
- Go for IELTS if you are looking for a globally recognized, formal exam accepted by a wide array of institutions and immigration authorities, and if you don’t mind paying higher fees and taking the test in a traditional test center environment.
- Go for Duolingo if you want an affordable, flexible, and convenient testing experience that allows you to take the test online from the comfort of your home, and if you’re applying to institutions that accept Duolingo scores.
Both tests have their merits, and the right choice for you will ultimately depend on your goals and circumstances. As language proficiency becomes an increasingly important part of academic and professional success, understanding the nuances of these tests will empower you to make the best decision for your future.
