Duolingo English Test (DET) is one of the most popular English proficiency exams for students looking to study abroad. Many universities and countries accept the DET scores to assess the English proficiency of a candidate. Test takers may face a technical glitch at the time of taking the Duolingo English Test. Get to know all the tips and tricks to tackle such glitches and have a smooth testing experience. 

The Duolingo English Test is a modern exam for evaluating English language proficiency for students worldwide. Unlike traditional tests, the DET can be taken online at any time, eliminating the need for physical testing centres. This digital-first nature of the test requires rigorous security protocols, which include screen recording and remote proctoring throughout the test session, ensuring the integrity of this exam.

These measures are in place to prevent cheating and maintain the test's credibility. Sometimes, test takers do not receive their results on the first attempt, due to technical errors or rule breaks. To ensure a smooth testing experience and to avoid common pitfalls, it is important to follow a technical checklist and be prepared with troubleshooting tips. This preparation will help you to tackle potential issues and ensure that Duolingo English Test-takers meet all the technical requirements necessary for a valid and successful test session.

Related Read: How to Prepare for Duolingo English Test? 

Technical Requirements for Duolingo English Test

To take the Duolingo English Test, you will need a computer with a functioning microphone, speakers, and camera. Note that, your camera should be on the top-middle of your monitor or screen, if possible.

Understanding Potential Glitches

• Screen Recording Access: To take the test, you will need to grant screen recording access to the Duolingo English Test desktop app. This is an important step to be able to start the test.
• Microphone Permissions: Ensure the Duolingo English Test app has microphone access for recording responses. If needed, adjust permissions in your computer's privacy or security settings.
• Stable Internet: Maintain a minimum speed of at least 2 Mbps download and 1 Mbps upload for uninterrupted testing. Wired ethernet connections are preferable to Wi-Fi or mobile hotspots, ensuring a stable connection.

Tip: You can type “internet speed test” into most search engines and find a quick and free way to test your speed.

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How to Fix Technical Glitches

Breathe easy, these problems can be tackled with a few simple steps:

Close Background Programs: Shut down unnecessary applications to free up resources (RAM) and prevent software conflicts. This includes:

• Browsers (Chrome, Firefox, etc.)
• Telecommunication software (Skype, Discord, etc.)
• Remote desktop software (TeamViewer, AnyDesk, etc.)
• Spelling or grammar checkers (Grammarly, etc.)
• Messaging apps (WhatsApp, Slack, WeChat, etc.)

Do a Quick Check: In addition to closing all programs, it is a good idea before the test to completely uninstall any application that can do any of these things:

• Make video or voice calls
• Send messages
• Share or record your screen
• Provide remote access to your computer
• Check your spelling or grammar
• Access your webcam
• Provide predictive text input or word suggestions

After you have taken the test, you can re-open or re-install these applications as needed.

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Check Task Manager: Finally, ensure no processes for the programs listed above run in the background. You can do this by checking the Processes section in the Task Manager.

• Favourable testing slot times: Schedule your test for late at night or early in the morning to avoid peak internet usage timings. This can help ensure a more stable connection.
• Network Bandwidth: Minimize network usage by disconnecting other devices from the internet during your test session.

Retake Policy and Support

Now, what if you followed all the steps mentioned above but still unable to take the Duolingo English Test? Well, don't worry, here are some steps that you can do:

• Retake Policy: If you encounter a technical error that prevents your test from being uploaded or certified, you may retake the test at no additional cost if you still have attempts remaining on the credit. Contact support if you've attempted to start the test more than three times to add credit manually.
• Contact Support: Reach out to the Duolingo English Test (DET) support team for technical assistance. Use the "HELP" button on your homepage or email them directly.

By following this technical checklist and troubleshooting guide, you can navigate potential challenges and ensure a smooth test experience, leading to timely results and certification.

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.