Duolingo vs. TOEFL

English Proficiency Tests are one of the most important entrance exams for studying abroad. With the pandemic, a wide range of home-based English proficiency tests were introduced to provide students with great opportunities. Tests like TOEFL, Duolingo, IELTS, and PTE became some of the most sought-after tests. All these tests serve the same purpose but differ in terms of syllabus, style of examination, scoring, and fee structure. This blog provides a comparison of the popular English language tests: Duolingo vs. TOEFL!

Duolingo vs IELTS: Which is the Best Exam for English Proficiency

Who Should Take the English Proficiency Test?

If you want to pursue higher education overseas but English isn’t your first language, you’ll almost certainly need to take an English proficiency test to get admitted to native English-speaking countries. The test results are an important aspect of your application.

As an international applicant, you can demonstrate your language skills by taking tests like the TOEFL and Duolingo. Choosing from the list of tests that are recommended is frequently confusing. 

TOEFL (Test Of English As A Foreign Language) 

Since its inception in 1964, the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) has been the most widely used English proficiency test. ETS, the same organization that administers the GRE, manages and administers the TOEFL. Most institutions in the United States, as well as many universities across the world, recognize TOEFL results as proof of English language proficiency.

Inception

Since 1964, the Educational Testing Service (ETS) has designed and administered TOEFL, one of the most extensively used language competence examinations.

Acceptance

TOEFL scores are accepted by more than 11,000 universities in 150 countries for admissions.

Test Structure

TOEFL is offered in two formats: an Internet-Based Test (iBT) and a Paper-Based Test (PBT) (PBT). While the TOEFL – iBT tests the candidate’s hearing, speaking, reading, and writing skills over three hours, the TOEFL PBT assesses the candidate’s listening, reading, and writing skills over two hours and twelve minutes. The results take anywhere from 6 to 10 days to be announced.

Test Fee

TOEFL testing costs between $160 and $300(11,783-22,094INR), depending on the country. Each try costs $180 (13,256 INR) for an Indian candidate. 

Duolingo English Test 

The Duolingo English Test is the most recent addition to the list of English proficiency examinations recognized by universities and colleges all over the world. It is slowly gaining prominence in the study abroad area, despite not being as well-known as IELTS or TOEFL.

Due to Duolingo’s in-depth course content, comparatively low exam fees, and an online style of examination that can be completed from anywhere, an increasing number of students are opting to take this test. In addition, more international universities are accepting Duolingo English Test results as proof of English language proficiency each year.

Inception

Duolingo English Test is a new addition to the roster of English Proficiency Tests. Duolingo, a popular language-learning platform, has been hosting it since 2016.

Acceptance

According to Duolingo, almost 3000 universities around the world recognize the DuolingoEnglish Test scores.

Test Structure

The test is conducted online and is divided into three sections: Quick Set-up, Adaptive Test, and Video Interview, each of which takes an hour to complete. Within 48 hours, the findings are announced.

Test Fee

The proficiency test is reasonably priced at $49 (3,608 INR).

Duolingo vs. TOEFL

Here’s a comparison of Duolingo vs.TOEFL:

Feature	TOEFL	Duolingo English Test
Establishment	1964	2016
Accepting Universities / Academic Institutions	More than 11,000 across 150 countries	Over 3000
Fee	$180(13,256 INR)	$49(3,608 INR)
Test Mode	Internet-Based Test (iBT) or Paper-Based Test(PBT)	Computer-Based
Test Structure	Three or four sections: Listening, Reading, Speaking (only in iBT)Writing	Three parts-Quick Set- up listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing is all evaluated in this adaptive test. Video Interview
Test Scores	Score points – on a scale of 0 to 120	Score points – on a scale of 10 to 160
Test Duration	2 ½ hours – PBT3 hours – iBT	1 hour
Test Results	6 to 10 days	2 days

Must Read: TOEFL Preparation Tips

Pros And Cons for TOEFL & Duolingo English Test

Here’s the concise breakdown between Duolingo vs. TOEFL comparison:

TOEFL

PROS

• The TOEFL is the world’s most widely used and respected language competence test.
• Because it is a well-structured and accurate test, the TOEFL is a convenient option for hopefuls.

CONS

• Obtaining a spot to take the test is challenging due to its popularity. There’s a chance you’ll have to wait for a parking spot.
• The test will last longer.
• In comparison, the exam is more expensive.
• In most cases, the results are ready within 6 to 10 days.

Duolingo English Test

PROS

• It’s easy on the wallet, too, with a low price of $49(3,608 INR).
• The test can be completed at any time from the comfort of your own home and takes only one hour.
• Within 48 hours, the findings are announced.

CONS

• In comparison to TOEFL and IELTS, it is not generally accepted by many universities and institutes.
• There aren’t a lot of practice materials available.
• For some candidates, the time allotted may not be sufficient.

Must Read: Canadian Universities and Colleges Accepting Duolingo

Duolingo English Test to TOEFL Score Conversion

The table below shows how the Duolingo English Test score compares to the TOEFL score. Here’s how you can compare the Duolingo vs. TOEFL through this chart:

Duolingo Score	TOEFL Score
10-25	0
30	1
35	2-4
40	5-8
45	9-13
50	14-19
55	20-25
60	26-31
65	32-37
70	38-43
75	44-49
80	50-55
85	56-61
90	62-67
95	68-73
100	74-79
105	80-85
110	86-91
115	92-96
120	97-102
125	103-107
130	108-112
135	113-115
140	116-118
145	119
150-160	120

Duolingo IELTS Conversion and Score Interpretation

This blog on Duolingo vs. TOEFL has hopefully cleared all your doubts! Want to study abroad this winter in the world’s most popular study abroad destinations like UK, Canada, and the USA? Sign up for a free session on 1800 572 000 and kickstart your global journey with Leverage Edu!