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The Duolingo English Test offers a modern approach to evaluating English language proficiency through a digital assessment format. Unlike traditional exams that require you to book slots at testing centers, you can take the Duolingo English Test (DET) online wherever and whenever it suits you the best. This digital-first format requires rigorous security measures, such as screen recording and remote proctoring throughout the test session, to maintain the integrity of the exam. Sometimes, test-takers may not receive their results on the first attempt due to technical issues or unintentional rule violations. Hence, it is important to understand these protocols and how they are in fact designed to prevent cheating and ensure that the DET remains a credible and reliable test.
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To ensure a smooth testing experience, it’s important for test-takers to follow and understand the technical requirements and familiarize themselves with troubleshooting tips. Being well-prepared can help avoid common pitfalls and ensure that all technical requirements are met for a valid test session.
Technical Requirements for the Duolingo English Test
To take the Duolingo English Test, you will need a computer equipped with a working microphone, speakers, and camera. Ideally, the camera should be positioned at the top-center of your monitor or screen.
For ensuring a smooth testing experience, here are the things to keep in mind:
- Access to Screen Recording: You must grant screen recording access to the Duolingo English Test desktop app. This is necessary to start the test.
- Giving Microphone Permissions: Verify that the DET app has microphone access to record your spoken responses. If necessary, adjust these permissions within your computer’s privacy or security settings.
- Stable Internet: A minimum internet download speed of 2 Mbps and upload speed of 1 Mbps is recommended for uninterrupted testing. For the most reliable connection, utilize a wired ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi or mobile hotspots.
Troubleshooting Techniques for Potential Issues with the Duolingo English Test
Any problems you may encounter while taking the DET can be tackled with these simple troubleshooting tips:
- Shut down unnecessary applications: Close any background programs on your system to free up resources and prevent software conflicts. This includes:
- Browsers (Chrome, Firefox, etc.)
- Telecommunication software (Skype, Discord, etc.)
- Remote desktop software (TeamViewer, AnyDesk, etc.)
- Spelling or grammar checkers (Grammarly, etc.)
- Messaging apps (WhatsApp, Slack, WeChat, etc.)
- In addition to closing all programs, it is a good idea before the test to completely uninstall or stop any application that can do any of these things:
- Make video or voice calls
- Send messages
- Share or record your screen
- Provide remote access to your computer
- Check your spelling or grammar
- Access your webcam
- Provide predictive text input or word suggestions
These applications can be easily reinstalled after your testing session is complete. It’s also important to verify that no background processes associated with these programs are still running. You can confirm this within your Task Manager’s Processes tab.
Best Slot Times and Network Tips for the DET
To ensure the best possible experience during your test, consider optimizing both the timing and network conditions. The following tips can help you achieve a smoother and more reliable testing session:
- Best testing slot times: Schedule your test during off-peak internet usage hours, such as late evenings or early mornings. This will help ensure a more stable and reliable internet connection.
- Network Bandwidth: Minimize network usage by disconnecting other devices from the internet during the test. This will dedicate maximum bandwidth for your testing session.
Retake Policy and Support Resources
If you have followed all the guidelines but still face challenges with taking the Duolingo English Test, there are no need to worry. Here’s what you can do:
- Retake Policy: If a technical glitch stops your test from uploading or getting certified, you can retake the test for free, as long as you have attempts left on your credit. If you’ve already tried starting the test more than three times, contact support to add more attempts manually.
- Contact Support: Reach out to the Duolingo English Test (DET) support team for technical assistance. Use the “HELP” button on your homepage or email them directly.
By following this technical checklist and troubleshooting guide, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure your test runs smoothly, leading to quick results and certification.
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FAQs
Ans: No. You cannot use electronic devices such as cell phones, tablets, or smartwatches during the test. In addition, you should not engage with predictive text or any other writing assistant software. To help ensure your test is certified, you should remove all external electronic devices from your testing area. You should also close all programs other than the Duolingo English Test app before starting the test.
Ans; There is an image of your face in the upper right corner of the screen. Please check it before taking the Duolingo English test to make sure your eyes are well-lit and clearly visible. If you are wearing glasses, make sure there is no glare on the lenses that obscures your eyes. Take the test in a well-lit room. Use a table lamp to clearly illuminate your face, if possible. If you are wearing glasses, avoid sitting facing a window, as this can cause additional glare on your lenses.
Ans: The Duolingo English Test is now administered through a desktop app. This is a better, more stable experience for test takers compared to taking the test in a browser. The app provides a secure and reliable environment for the duration of the test. You may still take the practice test using a web browser. If you encounter an issue during the practice test with your browser add-ons or plug-ins (such as Grammarly), these will all need to be disabled in order to successfully start and complete the test.
Ans: For security reasons, the Duolingo English Test needs to make sure you are interacting with only the Test application while you are taking the test. If you click on or open anything other than the test application, your test will be cancelled and you will need to retake it from the beginning. This will also use up one of the attempts on your test credit. To prevent this from happening again, make sure to close all other programs that are running on your computer before taking the test.
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