As university admissions for the 2026 intake approach, many students are asking: "Should I take the traditional IELTS or the modern Duolingo English Test?" While the IELTS has been the gold standard for decades, the Duolingo English Test (DET...
The DET has seen a massive surge in popularity across India, Pakistan, and Nigeria due to its accessibility.The Benefits: Affordability: At roughly 1/5th the price of IELTS, it is the most budget-friendly option for international students.Convenience: You don't need to travel to a test...
Despite the rise of DET, the IELTS remains the safest choice for many students.The Benefits: Universal Acceptance: Almost every university in the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia accepts IELTS. DET is widely accepted in the USA, but still has limited recognition in some UK and Australian...
Universities usually require an IELTS 6.5 or 7.0. Here is how that translates to the Duolingo scale:IELTS 6.0: 105 - 110 (DET)IELTS 6.5: 115 - 120 (DET)IELTS 7.0: 125 - 130 (DET)IELTS 7.5: 135 - 140 (DET)
Check the "Specific" Program: A university might accept Duolingo, but a specific competitive program (like Medicine or Law) might still insist on IELTS.Verify Visa Rules: Always check your local embassy's requirements for student visas to ensure they recognize the DET.Use the DET Readiness ...
If you are applying to US universities on a budget and have a tight deadline, the Duolingo English Test is an excellent choice. However, if you are applying for a Canadian study permit or prestigious UK universities, the IELTS remains the most reliable path. Still confused about which ...
Read the complete guide, eligibility criteria, and application process on our website.