Duolingo Vs PTE: What to Choose in 2024?

6 minute read
Duolingo Vs PTE: What to Choose in 2024?

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!

Duolingo Vs PTE: Overview

Here’s a table comparing the Duolingo English Test (DET) and the Pearson Test of English (PTE). Have a look.

FeatureDuolingo English TestPearson Test of English 
Test FormatMostly computer-based with some human scoring for writingEntirely computer-based
Skills TestedReading, Writing, Listening, SpeakingReading, Writing, Listening, Speaking
Difficulty LevelGenerally considered easier. Generally considered more difficult.
Focus More focused on vocabulary and grammar.More focused on all aspects of communication, including fluency and pronunciation.
Duration60 minuteApproximately 3 hours
Cost$59 USDVaries by location, typically around $300-400 USD.
Score ReportingResults available within 48 hours.Results available within 5 business days.
ValidityGenerally 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.

Credit: E2 PTE

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.

Credit: Duolingo English Test

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 TestPearson Test of English 
Test FormatMostly multiple-choice with some short writing and speaking tasks.Entirely computer-based with integrated tasks.
Skills TestedReading (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 clipReading comprehension passages with varied question types – Summarizing audio lectures – Writing summaries and essays – Repeating sentences – Describing images – Read-aloud tasks
Test Duration60 MinutesApproximately 3 hours
Speaking TestRecord 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. 

FeatureDuolingo English TestPearson Test of English 
Scoring System 0-16010-90
Reporting Time Results available within 48 hoursResults 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 LocationPTE Score RequirementDET Score Requirement
Arizona State UniversityThe USA50-70100-120
University of California, BerkeleyThe USA50-70100-120
University of Colorado DenverThe USA50-70100-120
Dublin City UniversityIreland50-65105
Griffith College DublinIreland 50-65105
Manchester Metropolitan UniversityThe UK54+100+
RMIT UniversityAustralia50-6595-140
La Trobe UniversityAustralia50-6595-140
The University of MelbourneAustralia50-6595-140

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

Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada

So that was all about Duolingo Vs PTE. Hope the blog has answered your queries regarding the topic.

FAQs

Which test is easier, Duolingo or PTE?

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).

Which universities accept Duolingo vs. PTE?

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.

I need my test results quickly. Should I take Duolingo or PTE?

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. 

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