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March 10, 2024, 12:42 PM IST
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Duolingo English Test: Widely Accepted by Universities Worldwide
The Duolingo English Test (DET) has gained significant recognition as an exclusively online English Language Test, now acknowledged by all major universities globally, with India emerging as its primary market.
This digital-first, high-stakes English proficiency assessment caters to students and has secured acceptance from over 5,000 programs worldwide, including renowned institutions like MIT, Yale, and Columbia University. Last year, individuals from 225 countries certified their English proficiency through this test. Notably, India has maintained its position as the top region for test takers for two consecutive years. In 2023, Indian students applied to programs in more than 83 countries, marking a 9% increase from the previous year.
Interested in pursuing studies abroad? Securing a scholarship can significantly ease the financial burden for many students. (Shutterstock)
India stands out as the largest market for the Duolingo English Test. Aspirants can efficiently schedule the test by registering for a free account on the official Duolingo English Test website. In India, the top 10 cities account for 76% of the total test volume, with notable year-over-year growth rates ranging between 50% and 100% in key metropolitan areas such as Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, and Chennai.
Typically priced at an average of 5000 INR, the Duolingo English Test offers a test bundle option for individuals, allowing them to take two tests at a discounted rate of \(49 each, totaling \)98. This bundle purchase is non-refundable, and test takers are provided with a 21-day window to complete the initial test. Following the release of the results, the second test can be taken within an additional 21-day period.
In an exclusive interview, Jennifer Dewar, the Senior Director of Strategic Engagement at Duolingo, elaborates on the DET.
Global Acceptance of DET as an English Proficiency Test
The DET has garnered acceptance from over 5,000 programs worldwide for both undergraduate and postgraduate admissions across countries like the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, and Ireland, including prestigious institutions such as Stanford, MIT, and UCLA.
Notably, in the US, the DET is widely recognized, standing on par with IELTS and TOEFL. Moreover, the DET is acknowledged by universities with the highest international student enrollments and is deemed suitable for student visa applications in the USA.
In Canada, all 15 prominent universities, including the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of Waterloo, along with popular colleges like Conestoga College, Centennial College, and Seneca College, embrace the DET.
In the UK, renowned universities like Imperial College London, University of Southampton, University of York, and University of Reading, among others, accept the DET.
For Australia, nearly all prominent foundation programs, including those at Group of Eight (Go8) universities like the University of New South Wales, Monash University, and the University of Adelaide, recognize the DET.
DET’s Unique Attributes
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Accessibility and Convenience: The DET is available on demand, online, and can be taken at any time, distinguishing it from tests like IELTS or TOEFL. This flexibility eliminates the need for costly travel and accommodation expenses.
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Cost-Effectiveness: Priced at less than one-fourth of its competitors, the DET ensures affordability, enabling students from diverse financial backgrounds to obtain an internationally recognized English certification for less than 5000 INR.
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Fast Results: Test takers receive their scores within 2 days, with the option for expedited results in just 12 hours for an additional fee, unlike other tests that may take over a week.
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Innovative Technology and Seamless Preparation: Leveraging AI and ML for skill assessment, the DET is computer-adaptive, offering a unique set of questions in each attempt. Moreover, the DET provides unlimited free [ppp1].
Additionally, the DET allows test takers to send scores to an unlimited number of universities at no extra cost, a feature not commonly found in other tests that may require additional fees after a certain number of submissions.
Online Exclusivity of DET
The DET is exclusively conducted online, with no offline test centers available. Individuals can take the test remotely from their preferred locations using a computer or laptop with a stable internet connection, eliminating the need to visit physical testing centers.
Duolingo’s Support for Students’ Higher Education Aspirations
Duolingo has actively engaged in collaborative initiatives to support students in achieving their higher education goals. Partnerships like The Next Genius Scholarship Program and participation in the Inspiring India Tour exemplify the company’s commitment. Through this two-year program, Duolingo has interacted with over 1,000 high schools across 50+ cities in India, engaging with more than 500 schools by 2023.
Furthermore, Duolingo has collaborated with the UNHCR to launch the Duolingo University Access Program, aimed at assisting refugee students from countries like Somalia, Afghanistan, and Myanmar in their university applications. The program has successfully placed its initial batch of students in institutions such as the University of Canberra, the University of California Berkeley, the University of Dundee, and the University of the People.
Additional Information:
For a more immersive experience, watch the [ppp2], providing insights into a complete test session.
Explore DET’s [ppp3] and playlists featuring informative videos covering various aspects of the test.
Practice and enhance language skills on the [ppp4].
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