Language Test Comparison
Duolingo English Test Score Chart: IELTS and TOEFL Comparison
Understand how the Duolingo English Test scores align with IELTS and TOEFL, what the four subscores measure, and which universities accept it as proof of English proficiency.
About this page
This is a reference and comparison page, not a calculator. The Duolingo English Test's overall score is produced by a proprietary adaptive algorithm that Duolingo does not publish. No honest client-side calculator can replicate it. Use this page to understand score ranges and how DET aligns with other tests you may encounter.
What the Duolingo English Test Measures
The Duolingo English Test evaluates English proficiency across four key competencies, each contributing to your overall score.
The Four Subscores
Your DET score report shows four subscores that break down your performance:
- Literacy: Your ability to read and recognize written English, including vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension of written passages.
- Comprehension: Your ability to understand spoken and written English, tested through listening and reading exercises.
- Conversation: Your listening and speaking skills, assessed during the 10-minute video interview component of the test.
- Production: Your ability to produce English in both written and spoken forms, evaluated through writing and speaking tasks.
Overall Score Range
Your overall Duolingo English Test score ranges from 10 to 160, moving in increments of 5 points (10, 15, 20, 25, etc.). The overall score is generated by Duolingo's adaptive algorithm, which factors in your performance across all sections of the test.
DET, IELTS, and TOEFL Score Comparison
The table below shows approximate alignments between Duolingo English Test score bands and IELTS and TOEFL iBT equivalents. These are based on official concordance studies conducted by Duolingo and the testing organizations, but should be treated as approximate guides rather than exact conversions. Each test evaluates proficiency differently.
| Duolingo English Test | IELTS (Overall Band) | TOEFL iBT (0–120 scale) |
|---|---|---|
| 10–40 | 1.0–3.5 | 0–30 |
| 45–70 | 4.0–5.5 | 35–70 |
| 75–100 | 5.5–6.5 | 70–95 |
| 105–130 | 6.5–7.5 | 95–120 |
| 135–160 | 8.0–9.0 | 115–120 |
Important note: This table is based on Duolingo's official concordance research, but concordance tables have known limitations. Verify the current comparison table at Duolingo's official score comparison page. Also note that TOEFL recently changed its reporting scale to 1–6; these comparisons reflect the legacy 0–120 scale.
Which Universities Accept the Duolingo Test
Thousands of universities and institutions worldwide now accept Duolingo English Test scores for admissions and graduate programs. The test is recognized by universities in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many other countries.
However, acceptance requirements vary significantly by school and program. Some universities accept DET as a full equivalent to IELTS or TOEFL; others use it only for certain applicants or alongside other criteria. A few high-selectivity institutions may still require IELTS or TOEFL specifically.
Before applying, always check the specific institution's website or contact their admissions office. Look for phrases like "Duolingo English Test accepted" in their English language proficiency requirements. Do not assume acceptance based on this page. Requirements change and vary by country and degree level.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the Duolingo English Test scored?
Duolingo uses a proprietary adaptive algorithm to generate your overall score from 10 to 160. The algorithm adjusts question difficulty based on your responses and combines your performance across all sections (reading, writing, listening, speaking, and the video interview). While Duolingo publishes your four subscores (Literacy, Comprehension, Conversation, Production), the exact weighting and calculation method for the overall score is not publicly disclosed. This is why there is no honest calculator for DET scores.
How does Duolingo English Test acceptance compare to IELTS or TOEFL?
Duolingo English Test is now accepted by most universities worldwide, including major institutions in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada. However, acceptance varies by school. Some universities treat DET exactly like IELTS or TOEFL; others may have slightly different requirements or use DET scores for initial screening only. A small number of elite institutions may still require IELTS or TOEFL specifically. Always verify with your target institution before taking the test.
How long is a Duolingo English Test score valid?
Duolingo English Test scores are valid for two years from the test date. Most universities accept scores that are within this two-year window. If your score expires and you need proof of English proficiency again, you must take the test a second time. Unlike some other exams, Duolingo does not publish archived scores after the two-year validity period ends.
Can I retake the Duolingo English Test if I'm not happy with my score?
Yes, you can retake the Duolingo English Test as many times as you wish. There is no official limit on the number of attempts. However, each test attempt costs money ($49 USD at time of writing), and it is useful to study between attempts. When you send scores to universities, you typically send all attempts or select specific test dates; verify your target institution's policy on multiple scores.
What score do I need for university admission?
Typical benchmarks: DET 115 (≈ IELTS 6.0) is often the minimum for undergraduate admission. DET 120 (≈ IELTS 6.5) is common for graduate programs. DET 135 (≈ IELTS 7.0) is competitive for highly selective institutions and professional programs. However, score requirements vary widely by university, country, program, and degree level. Check your target school's English proficiency requirements. Do not use these benchmarks as your only guide.
Is Duolingo English Test easier than IELTS or TOEFL?
Difficulty comparisons are subjective and depend on your personal strengths. Some test-takers find DET more accessible because it can be taken online at home, uses an adaptive algorithm that adjusts to your level, and produces results within 48 hours. Others prefer the structure and formal setting of IELTS or TOEFL. The "easiest" test is the one that best matches your English skills and learning style. Use concordance tables to set a target score, not to assume one test is fundamentally easier.