The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a popular English proficiency test for students pursuing demanding courses like STEM. Around 70% of the 1.3 million Indian students studying abroad are enrolled in STEM programs. To gain admission to STEM programs in U.S. universities, proving English proficiency is essential, and DET can help.
The United States remains a top destination for Indian students pursuing higher education abroad, particularly in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields. With a strong emphasis on innovation and research, STEM disciplines continue to attract a significant proportion of Indian students. According to recent data, approximately 70% of the 1.3 million Indian students studying overseas are enrolled in STEM programs.
Students can book DET exam according to their schedule and appear for the exam per their preference, and take the test according to their own schedule. If you’re planning to pursue a STEM degree, English proficiency is a key requirement and that’s where the Duolingo English Test (DET) comes in. More than 3800 universities in USA accept DET test scores. This list includes 98 out of the top 100 universities as ranked by US News. The DET offers a convenient, affordable and reliable way to prove your English skills.
- What Makes Duolingo English Test a Smart Choice?
- DET vs IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE
- Why the US is a Top Choice for STEM Students
- Popular STEM Courses in US Universities That Accept the DET
- Post-Course Job Opportunities for STEM Graduates in the US
What Makes Duolingo English Test a Smart Choice?
For Indian students, the DET is a convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional English proficiency tests. Here’s why:
- Affordable & Accessible: The DET fee is significantly less than other English tests like IELTS, TOEFL and PTE.
- Flexible & Online: Take the test from home, anytime. No need to visit a test centre or select a time.
- Fast Results: Get your DET scores in just 48 hours. This is faster than any other language proficiency test. You can even get DET results in 12 hours with an additional fee.
- Unlimited Score Submissions: Unlike other tests, DET allows students to send their scores to an unlimited number of universities at no additional cost.
- Score Validity: DET scores are typically valid for two years. Ensure that your test score is valid when applying.
- Minimum Score Requirements: Each institution may have its own minimum DET score requirements. For instance, some universities may require scores ranging from 115 to 130. It's advisable to check the specific score requirements of each university.
DET vs IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE
Here is a simple comparison among DET vs IELTS vs TOEFL vs PTE exams:
| Feature | IELTS | TOEFL | PTE | Duolingo (DET) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test Format | Paper/Computer + In-person | Online or Test center | Computer-Based | Fully Online At Home |
| Duration | 2 hrs 45 mins | 3 hrs | 2 hrs | 1 hr |
| Result Time | 3–13 days | 4–8 days | 1–5 days | 48 hours |
| Fee (USD approx.) | 18,000 | 16,900 | INR 18,000 | INR 6,000 (USD 70) |
| Score Range | 0–9 | 0–120 | 10–90 | 10–160 |
| Test from Home | ❌ (some exceptions) | ✅ (TOEFL iBT Home Edition) | ✅ (Online option available) | ✅ Fully remote |
| Speaking Section | Live with the examiner (IELTS) | Recorded responses | AI-evaluated | AI-evaluated |
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Why the US is a Top Choice for STEM Students
- Top-Ranked Universities: The US is home to some of the world’s best institutions, such as MIT, Stanford and UC Berkeley known for their excellence in STEM fields.
- Cutting-Edge Research & Innovation: From AI and robotics to biotechnology and aerospace, US universities provide access to groundbreaking research and state-of-the-art facilities.
- Strong Career Prospects: With global tech giants like Google, Microsoft and Tesla headquartered in the US, STEM graduates have incredible opportunities for internships, networking and post-graduation employment. Indian-origin leaders such as Sundar Pichai (CEO, Google & Alphabet) and Satya Nadella (CEO, Microsoft) exemplify the success that Indian professionals have achieved in the U.S. STEM industry.
- STEM-OPT Benefits: OPT (Optional Practical Training) allows Indian students in the USA to work legally for up to 12 months in a job related to their field of study after graduation. STEM graduates can extend this by an additional 24 months, totalling 36 months of work authorization.
Popular STEM Courses in US Universities That Accept the DET
Many leading US institutions that accept the Duolingo English Test offer a range of STEM programs, including:
- Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence: Universities like Carnegie Mellon and Columbia offer cutting-edge programs in AI, cybersecurity and software engineering.
- Data Science & Analytics: With the growing demand for big data experts, courses at institutions like NYU and the University of Chicago provide excellent training.
- Biomedical Engineering & Biotechnology: Johns Hopkins and Stanford lead in research on medical devices, genetic engineering and healthcare innovation.
- Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering: MIT and Georgia Tech offer top-tier programs in robotics, aviation and space exploration.
- Environmental Science & Sustainable Engineering: Universities like UC Berkeley and the University of Michigan focus on renewable energy, climate change and sustainability.
Related Reads:
- Top Universities in Asia Accepting Duolingo English Test Score
- Duolingo English Test: Expanding Your Options for UK Study
- How AI is Helpful for Unbiased Duolingo English Test Results
Post-Course Job Opportunities for STEM Graduates in the US
Pursuing a STEM degree in the US opens doors to exceptional career opportunities, thanks to the country’s thriving job market and high demand for skilled professionals. Graduates can work with top employers like Google, Microsoft, and Tesla, or explore entrepreneurship in innovation hubs like Silicon Valley. The STEM-OPT program allows international students to work in the US for up to 36 months post-graduation, providing valuable experience and a pathway to long-term employment. Additionally, STEM careers in the US offer competitive salaries, global recognition and opportunities in cutting-edge fields like AI, biotechnology and renewable energy.
Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!
With world-class STEM programs and strong career prospects, the US remains a top choice for Indian students looking to make an impact in STEM fields. The Duolingo English Test makes this journey more accessible by offering an affordable, flexible and widely accepted alternative to traditional English proficiency exams. Ready to take the next step? Start preparing for the DET and explore your dream STEM program today!
About the Author
The Duolingo English Test is a modern English proficiency assessment for today’s international students and institutions. The test is available online, on demand. You don’t have to make an appointment or travel to a test centre—you can take the test from your home via a computer and webcam. The test is administered using computer adaptive technology, meaning that the question difficulty adapts to each test taker. The test also integrates a video interview and writing sample, which are sent to an institution along with your proficiency score when you send your results. The entire test experience takes just under an hour. Test results are certified within two days, and they can be shared with an unlimited number of institutions.
Yes, Trinity College USA accepts international students. There are total 2,000+ students at this college. The students at this college hail from more than 60 countries. At this college, students can study at the UG and PG levels. Acceptance rate at this university is around 29%, making it a very selective college. Apart from meeting the general entry requirements, international studenst are also required to meet the English language proficiency requirements.
In 2026 rankings by U.S. News, Trinity College ranks at #37 among National Liberal Arts Colleges. It remains a Best Value school at #39 and a Top Performer on Social Mobility among the Liberal Arts Colleges of the nation. It is also listed on the Top 100 on Forbes' America Top Colleges list and also on the Top 100 Top Liberal Arts College rankings by Washington Monthly.
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The average GMAT cutoff for MBA in USA ranges anywhere between 545 to 755. The applicants can aim for B-schools in USA accordingly.