Duolingo vs PTE: English is one of the basic requirements of studying abroad and most universities require students to submit proof of English language proficiency along with a series of documents. Some of the most common English proficiency tests today are IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and Duolingo English Test.
But how can you choose the right English language test? The answer depends on a variety of factors, including whether the test/exam is accepted by the university where you want to apply, which exam centres are close by, and how much you’re willing to pay, etc. In this blog, we will help you choose between Duolingo vs PTE!
This Blog Includes:
Duolingo Vs PTE: Overview
Here’s a table comparing the Duolingo English Test (DET) and the Pearson Test of English (PTE). Have a look.
Feature | Duolingo English Test | Pearson Test of English |
Test Format | Mostly computer-based with some human scoring for writing | Entirely computer-based |
Skills Tested | Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking | Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking |
Difficulty Level | Generally considered easier. | Generally considered more difficult. |
Focus | More focused on vocabulary and grammar. | More focused on all aspects of communication, including fluency and pronunciation. |
Duration | 60 minute | Approximately 3 hours |
Cost | $59 USD | Varies by location, typically around $300-400 USD. |
Score Reporting | Results available within 48 hours. | Results available within 5 business days. |
Validity | Generally accepted for 2 years. | Generally accepted for 2 years |
Accepting Universities | Results are available within 48 hours. | Widely accepted by universities worldwide. |
Suitable For | Students looking for a faster, cheaper option, | Students needing a test accepted by a wider range of universities. |
What is PTE Academic?
The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) is a computer-based English language assessment designed specifically for students pursuing academic opportunities abroad. It evaluates your ability to communicate effectively in an academic setting, focusing on the core skills of reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Unlike traditional tests that emphasize grammar drills, PTE Academic utilizes a unique approach that simulates real-life university experiences.
Pearson’s PTE Academic test uses artificial intelligence to provide an unbiased assessment of your English proficiency. It is widely recognized by universities throughout the world, and it may be taken at Pearson test centres that are approved and COVID-secured. The charge varies by region, and you can check out how much it costs in your country on the PTE Academic website, which also offers a selection of helpful preparation tools.
What is the Duolingo English Test?
Duolingo English Test: The Duolingo English Test, or the DET exam is a widely recognised English proficiency test designed to evaluate an individual’s grasp of the English language. It is designed to ascertain and assess a candidate’s general proficiency in the English language, particularly in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Individuals who wish to pursue their higher education abroad, especially in predominantly English-speaking nations such as the US, the UK, Canada and Australia, are encouraged to take the DET 2024 exam.
Today, DET scores are widely accepted across most universities in English-speaking nations as a requirement for admission. The scores are considered to be credible indicators of one’s proficiency in the English language and attest that the student can thrive in the academic setting of an English-speaking nation. Furthermore, they play a significant role in the admission or employment process for international candidates.
Duolingo Vs PTE: Exam Pattern 2024
Here’s a table outlining the key differences in the exam pattern of the Duolingo English Test (DET) and the Pearson Test of English (PTE):
Feature | Duolingo English Test | Pearson Test of English |
Test Format | Mostly multiple-choice with some short writing and speaking tasks. | Entirely computer-based with integrated tasks. |
Skills Tested | Reading (30-40%) – Listening (30-40%) – Writing (15-20%) – Speaking (15-20%). | Reading (20-30%) – Listening (20-30%) – Speaking (20-30%) – Writing (20-30%). |
Task types | Identifying synonyms – Completing sentences – Transcribing short audio clips – Writing short texts – Recording short voice clip | Reading comprehension passages with varied question types – Summarizing audio lectures – Writing summaries and essays – Repeating sentences – Describing images – Read-aloud tasks |
Test Duration | 60 Minutes | Approximately 3 hours |
Speaking Test | Record short responses to prompts and answer open ended questions. | Integrated speaking tasks throughout the test (e.g., describing images, repeating sentences) |
IELTS vs. PTE – Learn about all the Differences
Duolingo Vs PTE: Results
Here’s a table highlighting the differences between the DET’s and PTE’s results. Have a look.
Feature | Duolingo English Test | Pearson Test of English |
Scoring System | 0-160 | 10-90 |
Reporting Time | Results available within 48 hours | Results available within 5 business days |
Validity | Generally accepted for 2 years. | Generally accepted for 2 years |
Proficiency Level for Duolingo vs PTE
Both PTE vs Duolingo are designed to test the ability and the level of skills and understanding among the students of the English language. The following table states the proficiency level for PTE vs Duolingo tests along with the scores.
Proficiency Level | PTE | Duolingo |
Expert | 89-90 | 155-160 |
Very Good | 83-85 | 145-150 |
Very Good | 74-84 | 135-140 |
Good | 73-77 | 125-130 |
Good | 64-72 | 115-120 |
Competent | 58-63 | 105-110 |
Competent | 50-57 | 95-100 |
Modest | 42-49 | 85-90 |
Modest | 35-41 | 75-80 |
Limited | 30-34 | 65-70 |
Extremely Limited | 0-30 | 55-60 |
Must Read: Duolingo IELTS Conversion and Score Interpretation
Duolingo Vs PTE: Top Universities in 2024
Refer to the list below to go through the universities that accept PTE and Duolingo English Test scores. Have a look.
Name of University | Location | PTE Score Requirement | DET Score Requirement |
Arizona State University | The USA | 50-70 | 100-120 |
University of California, Berkeley | The USA | 50-70 | 100-120 |
University of Colorado Denver | The USA | 50-70 | 100-120 |
Dublin City University | Ireland | 50-65 | 105 |
Griffith College Dublin | Ireland | 50-65 | 105 |
Manchester Metropolitan University | The UK | 54+ | 100+ |
RMIT University | Australia | 50-65 | 95-140 |
La Trobe University | Australia | 50-65 | 95-140 |
The University of Melbourne | Australia | 50-65 | 95-140 |
Duolingo Accepted Universities in Australia
Duolingo Vs PTE: Country-Wise Universities
Here is an extensive list of universities that accept Duolingo and PTE scores for admission purposes. Go through these score requirements to choose your preferred university.
Duolingo Accepted Universities in the UK
- Anglia Ruskin University
- Bangor University
- University of Bristol
- Brunel University
- University of Glasgow
- University of Birmingham
- Queen’s University Belfast
- Middlesex University
- University of Stirling
- Plymouth University
- University of Hertfordshire
- Leeds Beckett University
Duolingo Accepted Universities in the USA
- University of North Alabama
- Arizona State University
- University of Arkansas
- California Institute of Technology
- California State University Northridge
- Humboldt State University
- Yale University
- University of Bridgeport
- Florida Atlantic University
- Georgia State University
- University of Idaho
- Illinois Institute of Technology
- Carnegie Mellon University
Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada
- Algoma University
- Cape Breton University
- Concordia University
- University of Calgary
- University of Alberta
- Thompson Rivers University
- University of New Brunswick – Saint John
- University of Windsor
- Yorkville University, Toronto
- University of Regina
So that was all about Duolingo Vs PTE. Hope the blog has answered your queries regarding the topic.
FAQs
Duolingo is generally considered the easier test. It’s shorter (60 minutes vs. 3 hours for PTE) and focuses on multiple-choice questions with shorter writing and speaking tasks. PTE is a more comprehensive assessment with integrated tasks that require a higher level of English proficiency across all four skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking).
Duolingo is a relatively new test, but its acceptance is growing, particularly for online programs. PTE is widely accepted by universities worldwide, making it a safer choice if you’re unsure about specific programs. It’s always best to check the admissions requirements of your desired universities for their accepted English language tests.
Duolingo is the clear winner here. You’ll receive your results within 48 hours, compared to PTE’s 5 business day turnaround time. This can be a major advantage if you’re facing application deadlines.
Visit the Leverage Live page of Leverage edu or contact our study abroad experts at 1800-57-2000 to strengthen your scores and application to secure your spot in your dream college.