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IELTS vs Duolingo English Test: Complete Comparison Guide (2026)

Oleksii Vasylenko
Oleksii VasylenkoIELTS 8.0
Founder & IELTS Band Score Specialist

The Duolingo English Test (DET) has emerged as a popular alternative to IELTS, especially since the pandemic. It is shorter, cheaper, and can be taken from home. But acceptance varies widely — most immigration authorities still require IELTS, while a growing number of universities accept the Duolingo English Test.

This guide compares IELTS and the Duolingo English Test across every dimension that matters: score conversion, where each is accepted, test format, cost, and which is better for your specific goals in 2026.

140+ countries accept IELTS

5,000+ universities accept DET

$245–$255 IELTS test fee (USD)

$70 DET test fee (USD)

IELTS to Duolingo Score Conversion Table

The following table shows approximate score equivalencies between IELTS band scores and Duolingo English Test scores. These mappings are based on concordance research and university admission thresholds.

IELTS BandDuolingo ScoreCEFR Level
9.0160C2
8.5150-155C2
8.0140-145C1
7.5130-135C1
7.0120-125B2+
6.5110-115B2
6.0100-105B2
5.590-95B1+
5.080-85B1
4.570-75A2+

Key Differences Between IELTS and Duolingo English Test

Format: IELTS is taken at a test centre (paper or computer). The Duolingo English Test is taken online from home on your own computer with a webcam.

Duration: IELTS takes approximately 2 hours 45 minutes. The Duolingo English Test takes about 1 hour.

Cost: IELTS costs $245–$255 USD per attempt. The Duolingo English Test costs $70 USD per attempt — roughly one-quarter the price.

Results speed: IELTS results take 3–13 days depending on paper or computer delivery. Duolingo English Test results are available within 48 hours.

Acceptance: IELTS is accepted by 12,000+ institutions and immigration authorities in 140+ countries. The Duolingo English Test is accepted by 5,000+ institutions but is rarely accepted for immigration purposes.

Scoring: IELTS uses a 1–9 band scale. The Duolingo English Test uses a 10–160 point scale with subscores in Literacy, Conversation, Comprehension, and Production.

When to Choose IELTS

  • •You need the score for immigration (IELTS is required by most immigration authorities)
  • •Your target university specifically requires IELTS
  • •You are applying to UK universities (UKVI IELTS may be required)
  • •You want the widest possible acceptance across countries and institutions
  • •You prefer a face-to-face speaking interview with a human examiner

When to Choose the Duolingo English Test

  • •Your university accepts the Duolingo English Test (check their admissions page)
  • •You need results quickly and cannot wait for an IELTS test date
  • •Budget is a concern — DET costs roughly one-quarter of IELTS
  • •There are no IELTS test centres near you
  • •You want to take the test from home without travelling
Note: Important: The Duolingo English Test is generally not accepted by major immigration authorities (UK, Australia, New Zealand) for visa applications. Canada accepts DET for some study permit purposes but not for Express Entry. If you need an English test for a permanent residency or work visa application, IELTS is the safer choice.

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FAQ

What Duolingo score is equivalent to IELTS 6.5?
A Duolingo English Test score of 110–115 is approximately equivalent to IELTS 6.5. This is the most common requirement for undergraduate university admissions.
What Duolingo score is equivalent to IELTS 7.0?
A Duolingo English Test score of 120–125 is approximately equivalent to IELTS 7.0. Many postgraduate programmes and competitive universities require this level.
Is the Duolingo English Test accepted for immigration?
For most permanent residency and work visa applications, the Duolingo English Test is not accepted by the UK, Australia, or New Zealand. Canada accepts DET for some study permit pathways but not for Express Entry. IELTS remains the safest choice for immigration purposes.
Is the Duolingo English Test easier than IELTS?
The tests are different rather than easier or harder. Duolingo is adaptive and shorter, which some find less stressful. However, IELTS gives you more control over pacing and has a human-scored speaking section. Your experience will depend on your test-taking style.
Can I send Duolingo scores to universities that also accept IELTS?
Many universities accept both, but not all. Always check the specific admissions requirements for your programme. Some universities accept Duolingo for initial applications but require IELTS for final enrolment or visa purposes.
How much does the Duolingo English Test cost compared to IELTS?
The Duolingo English Test costs $70 USD per attempt. IELTS costs $245–$255 USD per attempt. Duolingo is approximately one-quarter the price, making it a more affordable option for students on a budget.

Sources & References

Score equivalencies are approximate and based on concordance research as of May 11, 2026. Universities set their own acceptance thresholds. Always verify requirements directly with your target institution.

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