Are you considering pursuing higher education in the United States, the land of top universities and the best opportunities? If you’re from India and want to study in the USA, you probably know how important it is to show English proficiency test scores. There are different tests for English, and one that many people like is the Duolingo English Test (DET). In this article, we’ll talk about this test and why people like it. We’ll also talk about the American institutions that accept Duolingo scores, the eligibility criteria for taking the test, the exam pattern, fees, and more. So, let’s explore why people are choosing the Duolingo test and how it can help you get into the best USA universities.
Why Do Many People Like the Duolingo Test, and How Is It Different from Other Tests?
The Duolingo English Test has gained popularity due to its unique approach to assessing language proficiency. Unlike other tests, this one is new and helpful to check how good you are at English. It’s different because it changes the questions depending on how you answer. This ensures a more accurate evaluation of your abilities, giving you a fair chance to showcase your language skills. Also, you can take the test online from the comfort of your home, eliminating the need for test centers and providing flexibility for students. Apart from this, there are some added advantages that make the Duolingo English Test stand out:
Exam Convenience: You can take the test online from anywhere that suits you. There is no need to go to a test center.
Test Duration: The test only takes 1 hour. The first 45 minutes cover reading, listening, writing, and speaking. Then there’s a 10-minute video interview to check your speaking and writing skills.
Speedy Results: You don’t have to wait long for your results. Duolingo gets them to you within 2 days.
Affordability: The Duolingo test is pocket-friendly. It costs only $59, which is much lower than the fees for many other English language tests.
Duolingo English Test has a lot of advantages compared to other English proficiency tests.
Duolingo Accepted Universities in USA
Wondering which top universities in the USA recognize and accept the Duolingo English Test? Well, here’s some good news for you. Many well-respected universities are now considering Duolingo scores along with other common tests. In fact, there are over 1,000 universities in the USA that accept the Duolingo test. And this number is likely to grow because of how flexible the test is. Because of this, the Duolingo test has become a great choice for people who want to study in USA.
Here are some of the best universities in USA that accept the Duolingo test in 2024, along with the lowest score you need for admission:
- Washington University in St. Louis – Minimum score: 105
- Northeastern University – Minimum score: 105
- University of Utah – Minimum score: 105
- University of California Berkeley – Minimum score: 115
- Yale University – Minimum score: 120
- Cornell University – Minimum score: 120
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology – Minimum score: 120
- Pennsylvania State University – Minimum score: 120
- Johns Hopkins University – Minimum score: 120
- New York University – Minimum score: 130
So, you can see that these colleges have different score requirements. Some colleges need a lower score, like 105, while others, like Yale University, need a higher score of 120 or even 130.
Duolingo Test Pattern
The Duolingo English Test (DET) is made up of three parts: test setup, adaptive test, and writing and speaking samples. Let’s take a closer look at each part.
Test Setup
In this phase, the Duolingo platform helps you get ready for the test on your laptop or computer. After you buy the test, the platform guides you on how to install the app. Then, you log in and check if your camera and microphone are working properly for the test.
You need to take a photo of your ID, show your face, and accept the guidelines of the exam. Duolingo will tell you how to do each step.
Adaptive Test
The next part is an adaptive test where they check your speaking, writing, listening, and reading skills. This part goes on for 45 minutes. You might get questions like:
- Write down what you hear.
- Choose the right English words.
- Read a sentence out loud.
- Write short essays.
- Explain a picture in one or two sentences.
- Fill in the missing letters in a sentence.
- Record yourself saying something.
- Describe a picture in 60 seconds.
After you finish this test, you’ll get a score from 10 to 160.
Writing and Speaking Test
This is the last part of the test. Here, Duolingo tests your speaking and writing. It takes 10 minutes. The writing part might include things like:
- Writing about a topic for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Describe a person or event that’s important to you.
You need to answer these questions in the time Duolingo gives you.
For the speaking part, you have to answer a question in detail. Like before, you need to do this in a certain amount of time set by the timer.
So, that’s how the Duolingo English Test is broken down into these three parts.
Requirements for the Duolingo English Test
To take the 60-minute Duolingo exam, candidates must have the following:
- Passport, driver’s license, or government ID
- A quiet and well-lit room
- A strong internet connection
- A computer
Computer Setup
For a smooth experience with the Duolingo English test, you’ll need the following:
- A front-facing camera
- A microphone
- Speakers
- Windows or macOS operating system
Number of Attempts for the Duolingo English Test
One of the good things about the Duolingo English Test is that you can take it more than once if you want to. Unlike some other tests, you have the flexibility to try again to get a better score. You have the opportunity to do well and apply to universities with your best result. You’re allowed to take the test as many times as you need. However, there’s a rule that you can’t take the test more than two times in a 30-day period.
In conclusion, the Duolingo English Test opens doors to the best universities in the USA for international students. Its adaptive format, quick results, and recognition by top universities in the USA make it an attractive choice for Indian students aiming to study in the USA. As you start your journey toward higher education, consider the benefits and convenience that the Duolingo test offers.
If you’re seeking the best guidance for your USA study plans, look no further. Our team at D-Vivid Consultant is dedicated to helping Indian students achieve their dreams of studying in the USA. With our experienced professionals and comprehensive support, you’ll be well-prepared to excel in the Duolingo English Test and secure admission to the best universities in the USA. Contact us today to take the first step toward a bright academic future.
