top of page

How to Compare Duolingo English Test with IELTS and TOEFL (And Which to Take)

Five people in a meeting room engage in discussion around a table with laptops, papers, and US/UK flags. A wall quote reads: There is no limit to perfection.
A diverse group participates in a collaborative meeting in a modern office setting, with flags on the table symbolizing international cooperation.

Contents

1. Introduction

2. How To get Access to the IELTS Centre?

3. How get Access to the TOEFL Center?

4. Why Duolingo has Easy Access?

5. Time for Duolingo test

6. IELTS full time

7. TOEFL Time

8. Time and results

9. How are mock tests and practice different?

a) Practice Tools Tips

10. Speaking tests comparison

11. Comparison of written tests

12. Listening tests comparison

13. Reading tests comparison

14. What is the result?

15. Frequently Asked Questions

a) Where is it possible to take the Duolingo English Test?

b) Does every nation accept IELTS?

c) Is TOEFL Best for America?

d) Do all colleges accept Duolingo scores?

e) Does Duolingo result quickly?

16.PoLL

  1. Quick Comparison Table

  2. Languages Courses For Test Practice


  1. Introduction


Duolingo tests can be taken from home. All you need is a laptop and stable internet. You can take the test in your room. No travel required. You can choose the test day and time yourself. Duolingo offers flexible options. This exam is easy for every student. A comfortable place at home is best for the test. You can take the test after preparing at your own pace.


  1. How To get Access to the IELTS Centre?


The IELTS test is taken at the center only. You must book in advance. You have to reach the center on time. Travel plans must be made. The test environment is formal. It is important to follow the rules at the center. IELTS slots are limited. You have to wait for a suitable date. Taking tests at the center creates stress. Long journeys take energy and time.


  1. How get Access to the TOEFL Center?


TOEFL is also a center-based test. You must book online. You must carry your ID card to take the test at the center. A computer is set up at the center. You are provided with headphones and a system. The test is conducted under strict supervision. You face delays and rushes. Once the time and day are set, it is not easy to change. Access to the center is not available in all cities. Travel is essential in small towns.


Three people collaborate in an office; one points at a document in a folder while others focus. Red wall, computer, and window in background.
Three young adults collaborate on a project in a modern office, with one providing input as another takes notes, all set against a vibrant red wall.

  1. Why Duolingo has Easy Access?


Duolingo tests are easy for every student. The test is easy and stress-free. A quiet place at home is sufficient for the test. You can take the test at any time of the day or night. You have no problem with traffic and center search. Test setup is quick and easy. Duolingo's accessibility is perfect for beginners. You can plan the test immediately. Travel means more relaxation and less stress.


  1. Time for Duolingo test


The Duolingo test takes just one hour. This test is short and simple. Each section is completed quickly. You don't have to sit for long. The test can be administered from home. You don't feel pressed for time. Duolingo's layout is simple. You can easily complete the test.


A person writes on a math test, wearing a smartwatch displaying text. The desk is wooden, and the mood is focused.
A student discreetly uses a smartwatch during a math exam, highlighting modern challenges in academic integrity.

  1. IELTS full time

The IELTS test is of three hours duration. On a single day, reading, writing, and listening are all completed. Speeches may be given on separate days. The IELTS test takes a lot of time. You have to go to the exam center. Time management is important. There is a fixed time for each section. You have to be time conscious and calm when completing the test.


  1. TOEFL Test Time

The TOEFL test is of long duration. The total time can be more than three hours. Each section has to be completed quickly. The TOEFL is administered on a computer. The answers must be typed on the screen. There is a lot of time pressure. You have to be fully focused. Listening and writing takes a lot of time. Visit our course for more tips.


  1. Time and results

You save time with Duolingo tests. You won't have to wait long. IELTS results are received in five to seven days. The TOEFL result is also received after five days. The Duolingo process is fast. The IELTS and TOEFL process is slow. Applying quickly with Duolingo is easy.


  1. How are mock tests and practice different for Duolingo English?


Duolingo mock tests are available online for free. You can use this test daily. Duolingo mock tests are short and easy. You get fast feedback. Duolingo mock tests prepare you for the real exam. A sample test is given for each section. Duolingo mock tests can be run on both mobile and laptop. Since they are free, you can practice several times a day.


  • IELTS and TOEFL mock tests are more structured. 

  • These assessments include lengthy sections and audio snippets.

  •  The IELTS practice exam is administered in a test center setting. 

  • The TOEFL mock test is computer-based. 

  • Mock tests for IELTS and TOEFL take longer. 


Access to IELTS and TOEFL mock tests is mostly paid. You have to pay for these devices. Understanding the test pattern is facilitated by mock tests. IELTS and TOEFL tools are more expensive.


Person on gray sofa holding papers with handwritten and printed text, surrounded by open books and documents, creating a focused mood.
A person sits surrounded by books and papers, diligently studying handwritten notes and printed documents.

Duolingo mock tests help you improve faster. IELTS and TOEFL mock tests provide in-depth practice. Each test has a different mock pattern. You should choose a mock test according to your purpose. Daily mock tests build confidence. Honing makes time administration less demanding. A mock test uncovers your qualities and shortcomings. 


a)Practice Tools Tips

  • Use Duolingo's free mock tests daily.

  • Read IELTS and TOEFL past papers

  • Practice listening and writing skills daily.


    10. Speaking tests comparison


The Duolingo speaking test is taken in an online format. You complete this test at home on your laptop. Duolingo has short titles. You must provide succinct responses on these subjects. Speaking is timed in Duolingo. You must use the camera and microphone. You must be calm and clear when speaking. The voice is recorded in Duolingo. The examiner reviews it later. A testing facility administers the IELTS speaking exam. 

  • The examiner gives you questions. 

  • You have to give direct answers. 

  • The IELTS speaking test is taken in three parts. 

  • The first part contains personal questions. 

  • In the second part you get a topic and in the third part there is a detailed discussion. The IELTS speaking test is more formal.


After being asked a question, your response is recorded. There is a timer in TOEFL speaking. You must speak quickly and clearly. TOEFL has complex topics. TOEFL Speaking is based on academic topics. Duolingo is easy for beginners to speak. IELTS and TOEFL require more practice.


  1. Comparison of written tests


The Duolingo written exam is short and fast. You have to complete short essays and sentences. Grammar and clarity are important in Duolingo. The Duolingo written test covers easy topics. The number of words is less. You must write quickly. You have to write your thoughts clearly and simply.


The IELTS written test involves writing a long essay. IELTS requires describing a chart or graph. There are two tasks in writing IELTS. The first task is visual clarification. The second task is an opinion-based essay. IELTS has a tall number of words. Linguistic use and lexicon ought to be solid. Time management is important.


The TOEFL writing test consists of an academic-level essay. After reading and listening, write. TOEFL writing uses complex sentence structure. You must write your points in a clear and organized manner. The computer is used to type the response in the TOEFL. The Duolingo written exam becomes easy with short practice sessions. Daily writing is essential for IELTS and TOEFL.


Duolingo is helpful for beginners to write. IELTS and TOEFL are suitable for advanced learners. The written portion of each test demands a different skill level. Choose the written test according to your comfort and purpose. Your overall score may be higher or lower depending on the written section. Writing should be clear and error-free. Writing improves with daily practice.


  1. Listening tests comparison


The Duolingo listening section is short and simple. In this test you listen to short audio clips. You have to answer by understanding the words. Audio in Duolingo is easy. Audio clips are clear and slow. You have to respond quickly. Duolingo is perfect for beginners.


The IELTS listening section is detailed. In IELTS you listen to long audio clips. Audio has multiple speakers. IELTS audio is on everyday life and academic topics. You have to concentrate deeply. IELTS has four sections. Each section has a different type of audio. The style of questions also changes.

The TOEFL listening section is educational. 

  • You listen to lectures and discussions. 

  • TOEFL audio is fast. Vocabulary is complex. 

  • You have to take notes. TOEFL has a timer. 

  • You have to give quick answers. 

  • TOEFL is suitable for advanced students.


    Man in polka-dot shirt shows woman a document, whispering in an office. A third person sits at the table, hands clasped, observing.
    A couple discreetly discusses the contents of an official document in a meeting room, as a person in the background observes attentively.

Duolingo is simple and fast. IELTS and TOEFL are structured and complex. Listening takes practice. Each test has a separate listening section. Duolingo provides a smooth and easy process. IELTS and TOEFL require more time and attention.


  1. Reading tests comparison

The Duolingo reading section is short. You have to read short texts. You have to answer simple questions. Reading is fast and easy. The words are simple and clear. You have to check the basic understanding. Duolingo is perfect for beginners.

The IELTS reading section is long. You have to read three long passages. Each section is taken after by an arrangement of questions. Vocabulary is moderately developed. Topics range from daily life and academic fields. IELTS has a lot of reading pressure.


The TOEFL reading section is academically oriented. You have to read long passages. Each passage contains deep concepts. TOEFL has multiple choice questions. Reading speed and comprehension should be strong. You have to give detailed answers. Reading the TOEFL is difficult.


Reading Duolingo is short and fast. Perusing IELTS and TOEFL is nitty gritty and time-consuming. Reading Duolingo is less stressful. IELTS and TOEFL require practice and strategy. Reading Duolingo makes preparation easy. Strong reading habits are essential for IELTS and TOEFL.


  1. What is the result?


If you want a short time and low budget option, choose Duolingo. If you want global acceptance then choose IELTS or TOEFL. Duolingo is fast and easy. IELTS and TOEFL are perfect for professional and academic goals. Choose the test according to your study and career goals. Each test has its advantages and limitations. With smart planning you can choose the best test. Looking to study and practice any of these tests, check them out in our Language course category and enroll now.


  1. Frequently Asked Questions 

a) Where is it possible to take the Duolingo English Test?

The Duolingo test is available for take-at-home use. All you need is a laptop and internet. You don't have to go anywhere. This test is conducted in an online format. You complete the test in an easy and fast process.

b) Does every nation accept IELTS?

Yes, almost all colleges worldwide accept the IELTS. IELTS score is reliable and standardized. With IELTS you can apply in the UK, Canada, Australia. IELTS is also useful for jobs. IELTS is helpful for long-term goals.

c) Is TOEFL Best for America?

Yes, TOEFL is widely accepted in USA colleges. TOEFL centers on universities in the US and Canada. The TOEFL format is academic. With TOEFL you can also apply for USA jobs. TOEFL is accepted worldwide.

d) Do all colleges accept Duolingo scores?

No, only some colleges accept Duolingo. Duolingo is not valid in all countries. More colleges accept IELTS and TOEFL. Duolingo's adoption is growing. But Duolingo currently offers limited options.

e) Does Duolingo result quickly?

Yes, Duolingo results are available in two days. It is a fast and smooth process. IELTS results are available in five days. The TOEFL result is also available in five days. With Duolingo you can apply quickly. No delay in result.

16.PoLL

What’s most confusing about choosing between DET, IELTS, and TOEFL?

  • 🔍 Understanding test differences

  • 🎓 University requirements

  • 💰 Costs and availability

  • 📚 Test preparation difficulty


Choosing between Duolingo, IELTS, and TOEFL can shape your study abroad or career journey. Each test has its own format, cost, and acceptance rate and the right choice depends on your goals.

Need a clear comparison chart and expert advice? Enroll now in our Courses using the below links:


  1. Quick Comparison Table

Test

Administered By

Format & Duration

Score Range & Validity

Score Equivalents

Key Pros

Key Cons

Duolingo English Test

Duolingo

Computer-based, adaptive, ~1 hour

10–160 points, valid for 2 years

160 = IELTS 8.5–9, 145 = 7.5, 125 = 6.5, 115 = 6, 90 = 5

Short, inexpensive (~US$80), fast results, take at home

Not accepted by some universities; limited test content visibility

IELTS

British Council, IDP, Cambridge

Paper or Computer-based; ~2h 45min (Academic); includes face-to-face Speaking section

Band 0–9 (0.5 increments), valid for 2 years

9 = TOEFL 115–120; 7 = TOEFL 94–101

Highly accepted globally, trusted format, options for immigration/academic use

Expensive, longer duration, needs test center and scheduling

TOEFL iBT

Educational Testing Service (ETS)

Computer-based, ~3 hours covering Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing

0–120 score; each section 0–30, valid for 2 years

TOEFL 120 = IELTS 8.5–9; 94–101 = IELTS 7; 79–93 = IELTS 6.5–7

Widely accepted especially in US; detailed section scoring

Long test, more expensive, only certain test dates and centers available

  1. Languages Courses For Test Practice

Comments


Join our mailing list

Donate now

Help us make a difference

Donation
US$10
US$20
US$30

Join Our Free Online Courses

Shop Our Digital Products

bottom of page