Duolingo English Test Pattern 2025
The Duolingo English Test (DET) consists of four essential sections: Adaptive Test, Writing Sample, Speaking Sample, and Interactive Speaking. All test-takers follow the same format in terms of the number of questions and timing. The test is completely online, adaptive, and combines all language skills.
Duolingo English Test Pattern
Perfect for students applying to universities or professionals requiring proof of English proficiency. The test concentrates on real-world English skills, using adaptive technology to assess ability efficiently. Candidates are advised to accumulate around 2–4 months of careful preparation.
| Section | No. of Questions | Tasks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adaptive Test | ~45–55 | Integrated Reading, Listening, Writing, and Speaking tasks (adaptive) | 45–60 minutes |
| Writing Sample | 1 | Write an Extended answer to a prompt | 5 minutes |
| Speaking Sample | 1 | Speak on a given topic | 1–3 minutes |
| Interactive Speaking | 1 | Simulated Conversation With an AI Character (from July 2025) | 5-7 minutes |
IELTS General Test Pattern
Suitable for those migrating or seeking non-academic training in English-speaking countries. It emphasizes practical communication skills needed for everyday life and the workplace.
| Section | No. of Questions | Tasks | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listening | 40 | 4 sections with various question types (MCQs, matching, etc.) | 30 mins + 10 mins transfer |
| Reading | 40 | 3 long academic texts with varied question formats | 60 minutes |
| Writing | 2 Tasks | Task 1: Write a letter Task 2: Essay writing | 60 minutes |
| Speaking | 3 Parts | Part 1: Introduction Part 2: Talk on a topic Part 3: Discussion | 11–14 minutes |
Key Differences Academic vs General Training
Reading Section Comparison
| Aspect | Academic Training | General Training |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | 3 long passages (2,000–2,500 words total) | 3 sections with shorter texts (1,500–2,000 words total) |
| Source Material | Academic texts, journals, and articles | Ads, notices, work-related documents |
| Question Types | MCQs, matching headings, identifying info, summary completion | MCQs, short answers, matching info, sentence completion |
| Focus Areas | Understanding Complex ideas, Inferring Information | Understanding practical info and general topics |
| Skills Assessed | Academic reading and analytical skills | Day-to-day reading and comprehension skills |
Writing Section Comparison
| Aspect | Academic Training | General Training |
|---|---|---|
| Task 1 | Describe/summarize visual info (graphs/charts) | Write a letter (formal/informal) |
| Task 2 | Formal essay on academic topics requiring structured arguments | Essay on general topics; tone is often less formal |
| Assessment | Task achievement, coherence, vocabulary, grammar | Similar criteria with emphasis on clarity and relevance to daily topics |
| Skills Tested | Presenting complex academic ideas logically | Effective writing for real-life situations |
Duolingo Scoring Overview
Adaptive Test
Assesses all skills; AI-scored, verified by experts; detailed subscores.
Writing Sample
Extended writing sample; unscored, shared with institutions for evaluation.
Speaking Sample
Spoken response sample; unscored, shared with institutions for review.
Interactive Speaking
AI conversation task; scored for fluency, pronunciation, and comprehension.