Duolingo vs IELTS Score Comparison — Which One Fits Your Study Abroad Goals?
In today’s increasingly connected world, demonstrating your English language proficiency is a critical step toward studying, working, or settling abroad. Two of the most recognised options are the Duolingo English Test (DET) and the IELTS (International English Language Testing System). While both assess your English skills, they differ in format, scoring, and how widely they’re accepted.
So, how do you compare Duolingo scores to IELTS band scores? What is considered a good DET score? And which test should you take?
Let’s break it down.
Duolingo English Test (DET) Scores
The Duolingo English Test is a modern, tech-driven English proficiency test that can be taken online anytime, anywhere, with results available in 48 hours. It’s especially popular among students seeking flexibility and quick turnaround times.
DET Score Range:
- Scored on a scale of 10 to 160
- Overall score is the average of four subscores:
- Literacy (reading + writing)
- Comprehension (reading + listening)
- Conversation (listening + speaking)
- Production (writing + speaking)
You’ll receive not just a single score, but a score range and a brief summary of your English abilities, offering institutions more insight into your proficiency.
What is a good Duolingo score?
| Score Range | Skill Level | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| 120 – 160 | Advanced | Ideal for top universities |
| 90 – 119 | Competent | Meets admission standards at many institutions |
| Below 90 | Developing | May require language support |
According to Duolingo data (May 2023–May 2024), the top 25% of test-takers scored:
- Overall: 125+
- Literacy: 125+
- Comprehension: 130+
- Conversation: 115+
- Production: 105+
IELTS Band Scores
The IELTS test is one of the most trusted English exams globally, recognised by over 12,000 organisations, including universities, governments, and employers.
IELTS Band Scale:
IELTS scores range from Band 0 to Band 9, with each level describing a specific proficiency:
| Band Score | Level | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | Expert | Fully fluent, accurate |
| 8 | Very Good | Occasional slips only |
| 7 | Good | Handles complex language well |
| 6 | Competent | Effective despite errors |
| 5 | Modest | Basic command |
| 4 and below | Limited to Non-user | Needs significant improvement |
Each skill (Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking) is scored individually, and the overall band score is the average of the four.
Duolingo to IELTS Score Conversion Chart
Though the two tests use different scoring systems, here’s a helpful comparison based on Duolingo’s own data:
| IELTS Band Score | Duolingo Score |
|---|---|
| 8.5 – 9.0 | 160 |
| 8.0 | 150 – 155 |
| 7.5 | 140 – 145 |
| 7.0 | 130 – 135 |
| 6.5 | 120 – 125 |
| 6.0 | 105 – 115 |
| 5.5 | 95 – 100 |
| 5.0 | 80 – 90 |
| 4.5 | 65 – 75 |
| 0 – 4.0 | 10 – 60 |
Note: This is an approximate guide. Always check with your target university or institution to confirm their requirements.
Which Test Should You Choose?
| Criteria | Duolingo | IELTS |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Online, anytime | In-person or online (limited) |
| Duration | ~1 hour | ~2 hours 45 minutes |
| Cost | ~$59 USD | ~$245–$255 USD |
| Result Time | 48 hours | 3–5 days (paper) or 1–3 days (computer) |
| Widely Accepted? | Growing, but not universal | Universally accepted |
| Subscore Breakdown | Integrated skills | Separate for each skill |
While Duolingo is faster and more flexible, IELTS is still the gold standard—especially for immigration or professional registration. If you’re applying to competitive universities or programs, consider taking IELTS unless the DET is specifically accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Duolingo accepted by universities?
Yes, over 4,000 institutions globally now accept Duolingo scores—but acceptance still varies. Always double-check with the university you’re applying to.
How long are Duolingo and IELTS scores valid?
Both scores are valid for 2 years.
Can I use both scores in the same application?
Some institutions may accept both. If they require additional verification, providing both can strengthen your application.
Which test is easier?
Duolingo is shorter and less expensive, and some find the adaptive format less stressful. However, IELTS is more thorough and accepted more widely.