English proficiency tests are crucial factors in the study abroad process, and lately, there have been various alternatives available such as TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, etc. While they serve the same purpose, i.e. to evaluate the English language skill level of test-takers, they are different in terms of syllabus, mode of examination, scoring, fee structure, etc.
A comparative analysis of the popular English language tests: IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo English Test, is provided in this article. This thorough analysis will help students clarify the differences between IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo so that students can choose the test that suits their needs.
Suggested: Know About IELTS vs TOEFL
| Table of Contents |
What is IELTS?
The International English Language Test (IELTS) is one of the most widely accepted and well-recognized English proficiency tests. IELTS is jointly owned and conducted by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia and Cambridge Assessment English.
Introduced in 1989, IELTS quickly gained recognition from universities worldwide. Many academic institutions in the USA, Canada, the UK, and New Zealand accept IELTS scores as proof of English language proficiency.
Suggested: IELTS Score Required for UK
What is TOEFL?
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is the oldest English proficiency test since it was introduced in 1964. TOEFL is managed and conducted by ETS, the same institution that conducts GRE. Most universities in the USA and worldwide accept TOEFL scores as proof of English Language Proficiency.
Suggested: TOEFL Scores & Results
What is the Duolingo Test?
Duolingo English Test is the newest addition to the list of English proficiency tests that universities and colleges worldwide accept. Although it isn’t as widely recognized as IELTS or TOEFL, it is gradually gaining popularity in the study abroad space.
An increasing number of students are choosing to appear for this test due to Duolingo’s in-depth course material, comparatively economical exam fees, and an online mode of examination which can be taken from anywhere, unlike other tests.
Also, each year, more and more international universities accept Duolingo English Test results as the certificate of English language proficiency.
Suggested: Universities Accepting Duolingo Test
Difference Between Duolingo vs IELTS vs TOEFL
The following table provides comparative insights along the different parameters for Duolingo, IELTS & TOEFL
|
Test Parameters |
Duolingo |
IELTS |
TOEFL |
|
Mode of examination |
Computer-based |
|
|
|
Exam Fees (USD) |
INR 4,092 |
15,500 |
INR 15,262 |
|
Duration (Total) |
60 minutes |
165 minutes |
180 minutes |
|
Results Declaration |
48 hours or 2 days |
3-5 days (Computer-based) 13 days (Paper-based) |
8 days |
|
Number of sections |
2 |
4 |
4 |
|
Sections |
1. Adaptive section (reading, writing, listening, speaking) 2. Video Interview |
1. Reading 2. Speaking 3. Listening 4. Writing |
1. Reading 2. Listening 3. Speaking 4. Writing |
|
Scoring Range & Methods |
Score (10-160) |
Bands (0-9) |
Score (0-120) |
Suggested: Duolingo Test Scores and Results
Each of these tests have its own scoring method. While Duolingo and TOEFL choose to give results in terms of score points, IELTS gives you a specific band depending on your proficiency in the English language.
Despite the different scoring methods, they can be compared on the basis of the level of proficiency the score/band represents. The tables below depict Duolingo English Test scores compared with its equivalent IELTS band and TOEFL scores.
Duolingo to IELTS Score Conversion
Here is the Duolingo score to IELTS Score Conversion Chart:
|
Duolingo Score |
IELTS Score |
|---|---|
|
10 |
1.5 |
|
15 |
2 |
|
20-25 |
2.5 |
|
30-40 |
3 |
|
45-50 |
3.5 |
|
55-60 |
4 |
|
65-70 |
4.5 |
|
75-80 |
5 |
|
85-90 |
5.5 |
|
95-100 |
6 |
|
105-110 |
6.5 |
|
115-120 |
7 |
|
125-130 |
7.5 |
|
135-140 |
8 |
|
145-150 |
8.5 |
|
155-160 |
9 |
Suggested: Universities Accepting IELTS Score 7.5
Duolingo to TOEFL Score Conversion
Here is the Duolingo score to TOEFL Score Conversion Chart:
|
Duolingo Score |
TOEFL Score |
|---|---|
|
10-25 |
0 |
|
30 |
1 |
|
35 |
2-4 |
|
40 |
5-8 |
|
45 |
9-13 |
|
50 |
14-19 |
|
55 |
20-25 |
|
60 |
26-31 |
|
65 |
32-37 |
|
70 |
38-43 |
|
75 |
44-49 |
|
80 |
50-55 |
|
85 |
56-61 |
|
90 |
62-67 |
|
95 |
68-73 |
|
100 |
74-79 |
|
105 |
80-85 |
|
110 |
86-91 |
|
115 |
92-96 |
|
120 |
97-102 |
|
125 |
103-107 |
|
130 |
108-112 |
|
135 |
113-115 |
|
140 |
116-118 |
|
145 |
119 |
|
150-160 |
120 |
Suggested: Colleges Accepting TOEFL Below 80
Above are the mentioned exam scores for Duolingo English test vs TOEFL, which international students can go through before taking the English test.
Duolingo English Test vs IELTS and TOEFL have their unique attributes. Each test has its own features that might suit different individuals according to their requirements & interests. Test-takers are advised to go through the syllabus and exam pattern of all three tests and choose the one which suits their needs the most. Also, make sure to check which English proficiency test is accepted at the university/college you are planning to apply to beforehand.
Also, if you want to know more about the IELTS vs Duolingo-related information, you can connect with our Yocket Experts and get a FREE 15 min consultation call to clear your queries regarding English proficiency exams. You can also subscribe to Yocket Premium and get guidance on admission applications, scholarships, visas, loans, etc.
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