IELTS Academic vs Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test is cheaper, shorter and taken at home — great for a first application round. IELTS remains the safer choice because almost every university and visa authority accepts it.
- Visa applications and universities that require a SELT
- You want a score valid for the broadest range of programmes
- Budget-conscious applicants
- You need a score within days from home
- Your shortlisted universities explicitly accept DET
Frequently asked questions
Is IELTS Academic easier than Duolingo English Test?＋
Neither test is objectively easier — they measure different things. IELTS Academic runs 2 hours 45 minutes and is scored as: Band score 0–9, averaged across the four sections. Top universities typically expect 7.0+. Duolingo English Test runs ≈ 60 minutes and is scored as: Overall score 10–160. 120+ broadly equivalent to IELTS 7.0 / TOEFL 100. Take a free practice test of each and compare your percentile before committing.
Which is cheaper, IELTS Academic or Duolingo English Test?＋
IELTS Academic costs ≈ USD 245 – 255 and Duolingo English Test costs ≈ USD 65. Factor in retake fees, score-reporting charges and coaching when comparing the true cost.
How long are IELTS Academic and Duolingo English Test scores valid?＋
IELTS Academic scores are valid for 2 years, and Duolingo English Test scores for 2 years. Plan your test date so the score is still valid on the day your university makes a decision.
Do universities accept both IELTS Academic and Duolingo English Test?＋
Most universities list accepted tests and minimum scores on the programme page. Always confirm on the official admissions page for the exact intake you are applying to, because requirements change year to year.