Duolingo English Test Last-Minute Preparation Tips and Exam Day Guide

Taking an English proficiency test is critical for students planning to study abroad. These tests are a gateway to educational opportunities in English-speaking countries, validating your language skills and ensuring you can thrive academically. Among the various options, the Duolingo English Test (DET) stands out for its convenience and accessibility. This article will help you with tips that you can remember before, during and after taking the DET, ensuring you are well-equipped to achieve your best score. From understanding the test format to honing your language skills, we’ll cover everything you need to know to embark on your study abroad journey confidently and clearly.

Ace The Duolingo English Test At Your Own Pace

Preparing for the Duolingo English Test (DET) doesn’t require the long hours, expensive resources, and rote memorization typical of traditional test preparation. The DET assesses your real English proficiency, so cramming before the test won’t change your score. Your score improves as your English proficiency grows, and memorizing answers or plagiarizing will only invalidate your score.

The best time to start preparing for the DET depends on your application timeline, current proficiency, and available preparation time. Regular, consistent practice each week to immerse yourself in English and hone the skills tested by the DET is beneficial. Think of this as “test readiness” rather than “test prep.” Instead of memorizing questions or strategies, follow a flexible timeline that suits your pace. The DET allows you to schedule and take the test anytime, making it convenient even for tight deadlines.

Tips to Follow Before Taking the DET

To avoid interruptions, ensure your online environment is optimal for taking the DET. Here are some of the tips that you can follow before appearing for the DERT exam: 

1. To better understand the Duolingo English Test (DET) format, watch the test walkthrough video. Spend time familiarizing yourself with the question types you will encounter and how to navigate through them. 
2. Create a free DET account for resources like the Official Guide for Test Takers, offering insights into question types and scoring. 
3. The next most important step is to understand the test rules and the consequences of breaking them. 
4. Spend some time daily to improve English fluency by practising English in day-to-day life. Listening to different accents, podcasts, music following English news, reading books or even watching English shows and movies and doing speaking exercises can improve your vocabulary and speaking skills.
5. Take the free practice test on the DET website as many times as you want to familiarize yourself with the types of questions you’ll encounter on the actual test. The practice test is available on mobile devices too, so you can practice on the go whenever you like!

Test Day Checklist: Key Things You Need to Know 

The DET is a completely remote exam, eliminating the need to visit a test centre. However, there are specific requirements you must meet on exam day. Keep reading to know some tips that you can follow on the same day of your test: 

1. This test is designed to be taken at your convenience, wherever and whenever you feel prepared. So, schedule the test as per your timing and allocate a dedicated hour for it.
2. Make sure to get a quiet space and equipment ready so you can approach the test with focus and clarity.
3. Ensure your system is working and you have the necessary equipment and documents to take the test.

Tips To Keep In Mind While Taking The Test

Unlike traditional English proficiency tests like IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE, which require test-takers to visit designated exam centres and register months in advance, the Duolingo English Test (DET) offers unparalleled convenience. You can take the DET from the comfort of your own home, whether it’s your living room or bedroom. This flexibility has made it a popular choice among students. 

Here are some tips that you must keep in mind while taking the test: 

1. Stay focused on the screen throughout the test as it is proctored, and avoid distractions or looking away. Avoid some of these commonly broken rules:

• Wearing headphones
• Ears are covered
• The room is too dark or not quite
• The test taker looks away from the screen repeatedly or for an extended time.
• There is someone else speaking with the test taker.

2. Monitor the time limit displayed for each question and aim to provide comprehensive responses before time expires. 
3. Complete the ungraded video interview and writing sample at the end of the graded portion. You must speak for at least 30 seconds during the open-ended speaking section as instructed. These are shared alongside your scores to universities, so do your best to showcase yourself and your English ability.

What To Do Once Your Test Is Finished

Taking the Duolingo English Test (DET) is a significant milestone. Once you’ve completed the exam, a natural question arises: What’s next? This guide will provide essential steps to take following your DET, from understanding the scoring process to utilizing your results effectively.

Keep reading below to know what to do once your test is finished: 

1. Ensure that your test has been fully uploaded before exiting the testing window.
2. Await your results, which will be sent by DET within two days of completing the test.
3. Once you receive certified results, you can send them to multiple institutions at no extra cost. Celebrate your achievement!
4. Feel free to share your results on your LinkedIn or add them to your CV.

Learning a language is a transformative process that extends far beyond test scores. It’s about enhancing communication and creating pathways to diverse opportunities in academics and careers alike. So, start your preparation today with confidence and commitment and take the DET whenever you’re ready!

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FAQs

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.