Overview of Duolingo English Test in Singapore

Want to pursue your dreams of studying, working, or living overseas from Singapore? You might need an English proficiency test to meet certain admissions or visa requirements. 

Have you considered the Duolingo English Test? This innovative online option is gaining popularity for its convenience, affordability, and growing acceptance worldwide. More people are choosing the Duolingo English Test each year, transforming how English proficiency is assessed. 

Join us as we explore why this exam is becoming a preferred choice and how it can help you achieve your goals.

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is an online assessment designed to evaluate your English proficiency in Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening. Its primary purpose is to provide a convenient, affordable way to certify English skills for academic, professional, and immigration purposes. Ideal for prospective international students, job seekers, and individuals in Singapore needing to meet visa requirements, this test offers a flexible alternative to traditional English proficiency exams.

Duolingo was founded in 2011 by Luis von Ahn and Severin Hacker with the mission to make education free and accessible for everyone. Starting as a platform for casual language learning through fun and interactive methods, Duolingo quickly became the world's most popular language learning app. Its engaging approach attracted millions of users eager to learn new languages at their own pace.

As the needs of language learners evolved, so did Duolingo. Recognising the growing demand for formal language certification, Duolingo introduced the Duolingo English Test. This significant transition from casual learning to offering a credible proficiency test showcases its commitment to meeting the educational needs of its global audience. 

By providing an innovative and accessible English proficiency assessment, Duolingo continues to revolutionise language learning and certification, staying true to its mission of democratising education.

The Duolingo English Test offers notable features that make it a compelling choice for assessing English proficiency:

Online and on-demand testing: You can take the Duolingo English Test from the comfort of your own home or any quiet location with a computer and internet connection. This flexibility allows you to choose a time that best suits your schedule, eliminating the need for a physical test centre appointment.

Affordable pricing: With Duolingo's price starting at $65, this English test is a more affordable option compared to other English proficiency exams like TOEFL and IELTS, which can cost significantly more. You can also send your results to up to 40 institutions without additional charges, making it a cost-effective choice.

Quick results: One of the standout features of this English test is the fast turnaround time for results. Typically, you will receive your Duolingo English Test scores within 48 hours of completing the test, which benefits those who need their results quickly to meet application deadlines.

There are multiple benefits of Duolingo's English Test, making it a versatile option for various needs:

Standardised English proficiency test: The Duolingo English Test is widely accepted by over 5,000 universities and institutions as a reliable measure of English proficiency, often used as an alternative to traditional tests like TOEFL and IELTS.

English placement test: Educational institutions use the Duolingo English Test to accurately place students in the appropriate English language courses based on their proficiency levels. This ensures that students receive the right level of instruction and support to enhance their language skills.

Corporate verification of applicants: Employers can use the Duolingo English Test scores to verify the English proficiency of job candidates, particularly for roles that require strong language skills. Including the test scores in your LinkedIn profile or resume can enhance your employability and set you apart from other applicants.

The Duolingo English Test format is structured into three main parts:

Setup (5 minutes): This initial stage involves creating your account, testing your equipment, and reviewing the test rules.

Adaptive test (45 minutes): This section includes a variety of questions designed to assess your English skills. The difficulty level adjusts based on your responses to ensure a personalised testing experience.

Writing and Speaking (10 minutes): This ungraded section requires you to provide answers in both verbal and written form, offering a comprehensive assessment of your language abilities.

You will encounter several types of questions, including:

• Read and complete

• Read and select

• Listen and select

• Listen and type

• Read out loud

• Complete the sentence

• Write about the picture

Each question type is timed, with limits ranging from twenty seconds to eight minutes, depending on the complexity of the task. This structure ensures a thorough evaluation of your English proficiency across various skills.

Getting ready for the Duolingo English Test is crucial to achieving a good score. Here are some preparation tips:

• Practice tests: Utilise the free practice questions available on the Duolingo website. Working through these questions will familiarise you with the test format and types of questions you’ll face, helping you feel more at ease on test day. You can also find additional practice materials through various online resources.

• Preparation guide: Duolingo’s official Test Readiness Guide offers a wealth of resources, including downloadable practice tests and detailed information about the test structure. It also provides examples of question types and important tips for preparing your test environment and understanding test security protocols to ensure your results are valid.

• Courses: If you have several weeks or months before the test, consider taking an English course to boost your skills. Online platforms offer numerous courses designed to enhance your language proficiency and vocabulary, giving you structured and comprehensive preparation.

The Duolingo English Test offers convenient, online, on-demand testing, making it accessible and affordable for many. On the other hand, IELTS is globally recognised by over 12,000 organisations, including universities and immigration authorities, and is known for its rigorous, formal assessment. With a proctored environment and evaluation by human examiners, IELTS ensures a nuanced assessment of language skills.

While Duolingo’s modern approach is gaining traction, IELTS remains the gold standard for those in Singapore seeking wide acceptance and a thorough evaluation process.

At IDP Singapore, we provide test-takers with all the essential information to succeed in the right English proficiency test for their academic and professional aspirations. From grammar basics to advanced vocabulary, we're here to help you achieve your goals.

Call us at +65 9152 1436 to get started!