Duolingo English Test 2026: format, scores & a 2-week plan
How the online Duolingo English Test works, what the 10–160 score means, the rules that trip students up, and how to prepare in two weeks.
The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a 1-hour online test you take at home, scored from 10 to 160. Results arrive within 2 days, or within 12 hours with Faster Results, and stay valid for 2 years. You can buy up to three tests in any 30-day period. Many universities in the UK, USA, Canada and Europe accept it; always check your university's minimum score.
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How does the Duolingo English Test work?
- Online and at home: you take it on a computer with a webcam, microphone and stable internet, in a quiet room alone.
- About 1 hour: the test adapts to your level as you answer, covering reading, writing, listening and speaking.
- Results in 2 days: or within 12 hours if you buy Faster Results. Faster Results purchases aren't refundable.
- Price: Duolingo shows the current price at checkout. Bundles of two tests cost less per test.
How is the Duolingo English Test scored?
All scores are on a scale of 10 to 160. Certified tests also show four subscores, which average to your overall score:
| Subscore | What it combines |
|---|---|
| Literacy | Reading and writing |
| Comprehension | Reading and listening |
| Conversation | Listening and speaking |
| Production | Writing and speaking |
Source: Duolingo English Test score guide. Universities set their own minimums, often for the overall score and sometimes for subscores.
What rules and retake limits apply?
- Results are valid for 2 years. After that you can't share the result or view the certificate.
- Up to three tests in any 30-day period. You must wait for your result before taking a new test.
- Three attempts per credit: one test credit gives you up to three attempts to complete and upload a test, and one certified result.
- No notes, no headphones, no looking away from the screen except to type. Breaking a rule means your result won't be certified, and you lose the fee.
- Read the full test rules on Duolingo's help centre before test day.
How do I prepare in 2 weeks?
- Days 1–2: take Duolingo's free practice test to find your starting level and your weakest question types.
- Days 3–9: practise each question type daily: read-and-select, fill in the blanks, listen-and-type, read aloud, and the writing and speaking samples.
- Days 10–12: take full timed practice tests on the computer you'll test on, with your camera set up exactly as on test day.
- Days 13–14: fix weak question types, check your room and internet, and rest.
Our Duolingo coaching at Himayatnagar or online follows this plan with mock tests and speaking feedback.
Which universities accept Duolingo?
Many universities accept the Duolingo English Test, including in the UK, USA, Canada and Europe, but not every university or every visa route does. See our list of Duolingo-accepted universities, and compare it with IELTS and PTE in our English test comparison.
Official sources
Figures on this page were checked on 23 Oct 2026. Rules and fees change, so always confirm the current numbers on the official site before you pay or apply.
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Frequently asked questions
How long is the Duolingo English Test valid?
Duolingo English Test results are valid for 2 years from your test date.
What is the Duolingo English Test score range?
Scores run from 10 to 160, with four subscores: Literacy, Comprehension, Conversation and Production.
How soon do I get my Duolingo English Test result?
Within 2 days, or within 12 hours if you buy Faster Results.
How many times can I take the Duolingo English Test?
You can buy up to three tests in any 30-day period, and you must wait for your result before taking another.
Can I prepare for the Duolingo English Test in 2 weeks?
Many students can, if their English is already reasonable. Start with the free practice test, practise each question type daily, and take full timed practice tests in your test-day setup.
Is Duolingo accepted for a UK student visa?
Many UK universities accept Duolingo for admission, and they confirm your English level on your CAS. Check your university's policy, because not all accept it.
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