Duolingo English Test Pattern 2025: Types of Questions, Time limit

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Raj Vimal
Updated on Jun 16, 2025 00:40 IST

By Raj Vimal, Study Abroad Expert

Has the Duolingo English Test pattern changed in 2025? Knowing the latest test pattern is the first step towards DET preparation. It is not only an affordable and shorter English proficiency test but also a popular alternative to traditional English proficiency exams like IELTS, PTE, and more. Students must understand the key details of the Duolingo English Test pattern and syllabus to achieve the highest scores on the English fluency test.

Overall, the Duolingo English Test format remains similar to last year. However, the exam conducting body has introduced multiple updates to enhance the test’s reliability and effectiveness. Use of AI and introducing a secondary camera requirement to enhance test security are a few of them. The DET exam is an exam that is designed to be taken online anywhere, anytime. After making a Duolingo Test Booking, students can take the test at their convenience.

DET test pattern

Students can book DET exam online through the official Duolingo website and take it from the comfort of their home. According to Duolingo English pattern, the duration of this exam is 1-hour, which is divided into two parts. One is a 45-minute adaptive test that has a series of questions that evaluate a candidate's English skills. The other is a 10-minute Writing and Speaking test that has open-ended prompts that are shared with institutions alongside a candidate's score. The first 5 minutes is an introduction that walks the test takers through the test rules and requirements.

Q:   What is the Duolingo exam pattern?
A: 

There are three parts of the exam.  

  1.  In the first section you’ll get an introduction to the exam, its platform and technical checks.
  2. Your English proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking will be assessed in the adaptive test section. The duration of this section is 45 minutes.
  3. In the writing and speaking section, you'll get a prompt (image or text form). You will be asked to write and speak about it. Duration of this section is 10 minutes.
Q:   What is the new Duolingo test pattern for 2025?
A: 

As of 2025, no changes have been announced for the Duolingo English Test (DET) format. The test duration and its adaptive nature are same like before. DET Test takers will have 55 minutes to complete the exam, along with 5 minutes at the beginning for the introduction and onboarding process.

However, the Duolingo English Test is now using AI technology to assess a candidate's language proficiency more effectively and delivering results in less than 48 hours. Also, the DET exam conducting body has introduced a secondary camera requirement to enhance test security and raise the credibility of test.

Q:   What are some Writing tips for the Duolingo English Test (DET) to understand pattern?
A: 

Those who wish to appear for Duolingo English Test should make it a habit to make use of correct grammar, punctuation, right spelling, and capitalization. Both British and American spellings are accepted for the test. But in the Read and Complete question type, only American spelling can be used. Test takers should use different word choice and sentence structure as much as they can. If you want to score better, utilizing assorted and polished vocabulary and grammar may help you with the puspose.

Q:   Why is Duolingo English Test an adaptive test?
A: 

Duolingo English Test is an adaptive test due to the fact that the questions asked in it adapt to the answers that the test taker gives. Therefore, the difficulty level of the questions is set accordingly. The questions are generated by a grading system implemented by Duolingo as the test is AI-driven. So, questions are chosen by the system from a large pool of questions and no question appears twice. In order to get an in-depth idea about the DET structure, you are suggested to go through the video walkthrough on the official website.

Q:   What are some of the strategies to take Duolingo English Test?
A: 

Utilize your time conveniently to answer the asked questions. Don't expect that you'll score better by providing responses quickly. Try to give lengthier answers than required if you can. No penalty will be charged for errors until or unless the test taker presses the 'Next' button for submitting the response. So make all the corrections you want before moving on to the next question. Once you have clicked on 'next' you won't be able to go back to the previous question. Also, do not look at the times frequently as doing so may divert your mind from answering effectively.

Table of content
  • Duolingo English Test Pattern 2025 Highlights
  • Duolingo Exam Pattern 2025
  • Duolingo English Exam Syllabus 2025
  • Duolingo Adaptive Test Syllabus
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Duolingo English Test Pattern 2025 Highlights

Test Name

Duolingo English Test

Mode

Online

Sections

2

Types of Questions

Objective + Descriptive

Duration

60 minutes

Duolingo Test Pattern

  • Introduction - 5 minutes
  • Adaptive test - 45 minutes
  • Writing and speaking sample - 10 minutes

Duolingo English Test Fee for Indians

USD 70 (INR 6,000 Approximately)

The Duolingo English Test measures the following four major abilities in the test taker:

Sections Ability Analysed
Literacy Ability to read and write
Comprehension Ability to listen and read
Conversation Ability to speak and listen
Production Ability to write and speak

Latest Changes in Duolingo English Test 2025

Here are some latest changes introduced in Duolingo English Test, which you should know before taking the test.

  1. DET Introduced Additional Subscore Feature: Duolingo English Test provides individual subscores for Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening. The aim of this feature is to provide a more detailed assessment of candidates' language proficiency.
  2. Secondary Camera Required in DET: Now, you need two cameras to take the Duolingo English Test (DET). The test has added a second camera to make sure everything is secure and trustworthy. The extra camera records your computer screen and keyboard while you take the test, adding another level of monitoring
  3. Use of AI in Duolingo English Test: The Duolingo English Test is an adaptive English test that increases or decreases the difficulty level based on your answers. With the integration of AI, the DET aims to offer:
  • Adaptive testing for accurate assessment
  • Fast and convenient test-taking
  • Unique and secure test questions
  • Assessment of real-world language skills
  • Precise score estimation on practice tests
  • Robust ID verification
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What are 'Read Aloud' questions in DET test?
A: 

In the 'Read Aloud' part, the test takers will have to record themselves reading a written sentence or a statement which appears on the screen. They will then have to speak it loud and clear into the microphone. As soon as the timer starts, you will get to read the instructions for this question. Carefully look at the pauses or punctuations in the given statement so that you can halt at the commas. Only 20 seconds will be provided for the same and you can record your statement only once.  

Q:   What are the question types in Duolingo Sample Paper?
A: 

DET (Duolingo English Test) is an adaptive test that assesses multiple language skills, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Here we have mentioned some question types of Duolingo English Test, so you can practice accordingly.

  1. Read and Complete.
  2. Read and Select.
  3. Listen and Type.
  4. Write About the Photo.
  5. Speak About the Photo.
  6. Read, Then Write.
  7. Read, Then Speak.
  8. Listen, Then Speak.
  9. Speaking Sample.
  10. Writing Sample.
  11. Summarize the Conversation.
Q:   What is 'Speak about the photo' question in Duolingo English Test?
A: 

In this a picture will appear on the test taker's screen. He/she will then have to speak about the same for a minimum of 30 seconds. The instructions along with the picture will be displayed for 20 seconds on the screen after which it will switch to the record screen. If recorded earlier, you may press 'next' in order to advance further yourself. This exercise is best answered when one describes the picture as if explaining it to a person who cannot see the image.  

Q:   What is 'Read, then Write' question in DET exam?
A: 

 In this, a question will appear on the test taker's screen to which he/she will have to respond in minimum 50 words. So one has to first read the question and then write about it. Once the timer begins, instructions for this question will be displayed. Take your time and make sure you give the best possible reply to what is asked. How many words have you used will appear below the text box. Also, the test taker won't be able to press 'next' until they have written a total of 50 words atleast.

Q:   Can you share details about video interview in Duolingo English Test?
A: 

A section in DET test, the video interview is a 10-minute test. In this section, you are recorded speaking your answers to open-ended questions about a given situation, image, or topic. Duolingo has made it mandatory for the test takers to have a front-facing camera, a microphone, working speakers, and a reliable internet connection. In this section, a candidate needs to describe an image, talk about a given situation, and on a top for a few minutes.

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Duolingo Exam Pattern 2025

DET is scored on a scale from 10 - 160. There are three parts of the Duolingo English Test pattern. All these parts are designed to monitor the English language proficiency of the candidate in all aspects. The difficulty level of the questions is in no particular order. You may encounter any kind of questions, easy or difficult, first.

Once you begin the test, you’ll be guided through three different sections:

Sections of Duolingo English Test

Exam Duration

Introduction

5 minutes

Adaptive test (Graded)

45 minutes

Writing and speaking sample (Ungraded)

10 minutes

Section 1: DET Introduction and Onboarding

This section of this exam lets candidates know about the rules and requirements of the Duolingo English Test. The duration of this section is 5 minutes. Here are the key highlights of this section

  • Ensure your computer’s camera, speakers, and microphone are functioning properly.
  • Submit your government-issued photo ID.
  • Review the test rules and requirements.

Section 2: Adaptive Test

The adaptive test is a part of the Duolingo English Exam. It is designed to evaluate the reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills of the candidates. The duration of the Adaptive section is 45 minutes. The Adaptive test section is a graded section of the DET. This test means that the question sequence and difficulty change for each test taker and test session. The computer adapts the answers given by candidates and it sets the difficulty of the next question accordingly.

As the test is AI-driven, the questions are generated by a grading system implemented by Duolingo. So, the system selects questions from a large pool of questions, so, no question gets repeated. The grading system will end the test when it is ensured by the score secured by the test taker. 

Measures your English skills Through a Series of Different Question Types:

  • Read and Complete
  • Read and Select
  • Listen and Select
  • Listen and Type
  • Read Aloud
  • Write About the Photo
  • Speak About the Photo
  • Read Then Write
  • Read Then Speak
  • Listen Then Speak
  • Complete the Sentences
  • Complete the Passage
  • Highlight the Answer
  • Identify the Idea
  • Title the Passage

Section 3: Video Interview, Writing and Speaking Test

The video interview is a different section that is a 10-minute test. It includes a writing and speaking sample and has open-ended prompts that are shared with institutions alongside the test taker's score. As asked by Duolingo, you need to have a front-facing camera, a microphone, working speakers, and a reliable internet connection. In this section, a candidate needs to 

  • Describe an image
  • Speak about a given situation
  • Speak on a topic for a few minutes
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What are writing and speaking samples in DET?
A: 

In this section, open-ended prompts will be there which will be shared with institutions with the score you obtain. It is a 10-minute section which contains two prompts out of which the candidate has to answer one. In the Speaking sample, the length of the response has to be between 1-3 minutes, whereas in the Writing Sample, it has to be between 3-5 minutes. Once the test is completed, the test takers will be able to review their answers to these samples.

Q:   What is the validity of a Duolingo English Test score?
A: 

Once you obtain your Duolingo English Test score, the same will remain valid for a period of two years. This is standard, most high stakes tests have a two year validity period. Your expired result will still be visible on your homepage after two years but you won't be able to share it or see its certificate. Please note that the test score's validity may also depend on the specific requirements which a university would have set. It may be possible that a few institutions accept old scores, whereas some may need you to be holding current scores.

Q:   Why should I watch the 5-minute introduction in Duolingo English Test?
A: 

Make sure that you watch the 5-minute introduction as it will help you get acquainted wit the rules and requirements of the Duolingo English Test.

Here are the reasons why you should not avoid this introduction:

  1. Understanding the Test Format
  2. Technical Requirements and Setup
  3. Test-Taking Strategies
  4. Familiarizing Yourself with the Interface.

All these activities will be done in just five minutes of introduction. Make sure that you follow the rules and guidelines strictly or else your test may get cancelled or Duolingo may also invalidate your score.

Q:   What is the pattern of the Duolingo English Test?
A: 

The Duolingo English Test has two parts. The first one is a 45-minute adaptive test in which series of questions appear that evaluate one's English skills. The other part consists of a 10-minute Writing and Speaking test that has open-ended prompts. These along with one's scores are shared with institutions. The first 5 minutes is an introduction in which the test takers are made familiar with the test rules and requirements. DET is conducted online and is an English proficiency test which analyses one's abilities in the four language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

Q:   What are the latest updates in the Duolingo English Test 2025?
A: 

Here are few changes announced for Duolingo English Test 2025:

  1. Fee Increased: Duolingo Fee for Indians is USD 70 (INR 6,000). Earlier, it was USD 55.
  2. Dual Camera Requirement: You need to set up another camera which will record you and your computer screen.
  3. AI Use: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now being used to enhance the assessment of a candidate's language proficiency more comprehensively.








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Duolingo English Exam Syllabus 2025

The complete online 1-hour test is divided into 3 different parts. The introduction, Computer Adaptive Test, and Video Writing and speaking sample. Below we have mentioned in detail each of the parts of the Duolingo English Test syllabus.

Introduction

The 5-minute introduction walks the test taker through the test rules and requirements. As for the test requirements, you need to have a valid government ID to register for Duolingo English Test. Also, one needs to have the required computer set up that includes a working computer/laptop, reliable internet, a front-facing camera, a microphone, speakers, and a well-lit room. Also, candidates need to follow the rules and guidelines strictly while taking the test, or Duolingo can either cancel the test or invalidate your score or the test taker can be permanently banned from the Duolingo English Test.

Adaptive test (Graded)

  • This is the most important part of the Duolingo English test as it includes a series of different questions that evaluate the candidate's English skills. 
  • The 45-minute section analyses the English skills through short questions
  • The difficulty level of the questions changes according to the performance of the test taker

Video Writing and Speaking Sample (Ungraded)

It includes open-ended prompts that are shared with institutions alongside your score. The 10-minute section includes 2 prompts out of which the candidate has to answer one.

  • You will be given 30 seconds to choose the prompt
  • 1-3 minutes are there to attempt the video-speaking sample
  • 3 to 5 minutes are dedicated to the writing sample
  • Test takers are given time to review their video samples and also write sample answers before submission
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is Duolingo English Test syllabus?
A: 

There is no fixed syllabus for the Duolingo English Test. It checks your skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It includes short questions like filling in missing words, describing pictures, reading aloud, and answering questions in your own words. The test is adaptive, meaning it gets easier or harder based on your answers, and takes about 1 hour to complete.

Q:   What kind of vocabulary knowledge is tested in Duolingo English Test?
A: 

Vocabulary is tested through tasks like "Read and Select" (identifying real English words) and "Listen and Select," as well as in reading comprehension and writing tasks where you need to understand and use a wide range of words. Other than this, there are other tasks which help them to assess student's proficiency.

Q:   Are there specific topics that I need to study for the DET test?
A: 

No, there is not any specific list of topics for Duolingo English Test. Questions of this exam can cover a wide range of current affairs topics. The objective of DET is to assess candidate's English language ability and not your knowledge of a particular field. It is adviseble to focus on improving your language proficiency only for getting better score.

Q:   Can I use a mobile device to take the Duolingo English test?
A: 

No, to take the Duolingo English Test, you must have a desktop or laptop computer with Windows 7 or greater, or macOS 10.13 or greater. the DET test will not work on a Chromebook, iPad, tablet or any other device. Also, operating systems like ChromeOS or Linux are not suitable for DET test.

Q:   How many hours do I need to study to cover Duolingo exam syllabus?
A: 

There is no any specific syllabus for Duolingo English Exam. It is an adaptive test which assesses your listening, writing, speaking and reading skills. The amount of time needed to prepare for the Duolingo English Test varies depending on your current English proficiency level. To prepare from beginining you need at least 2 months.







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Duolingo Adaptive Test Syllabus

The Duolingo Adaptive test lasts 45 minutes and analyses a candidate's English language skills with the help of a series of unfamiliar question types. The exam questions are randomly administered and the difficulty level of the questions will keep getting altered on the basis of how you perform. This part won't have any fixed number of questions and as soon as the grading engine is satisfied with your marks or scores, the test will be over.

The table below lists the types of questions which will be asked in the adaptive test along with the areas they measure and time limit provided to answer.

Questions Type   

Subscores

Time limit

Read and complete   

Literacy, Comprehension

3 min

Read and select

Literacy, Comprehension

1 min

Listen and select

Comprehension, Conversation

1.5 min

Listen and types

Comprehension, Conversation

1 min

Read aloud

Comprehension, Conversation

20 sec

Write about photo

Production, Literacy

1 min

Speak about photo

Production, Conversation

1 - 1.5 min

Read and write

Conversation, Production

0.5 - 1.5 min

Listen and speak

Conversation, Production

0.5 - 1.5 min

Although the exact number of questions that are going to be asked is not defined but one can know the type of questions that are going to be asked in the Duolingo English Test pattern.

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Comments

(38)

B

Biniyam

2 months ago

How many questions I do take

Reply to Biniyam

L

Lavanya Pal

a year ago

What are the job and career options after passing the Duolingo test?

Reply to Lavanya Pal

R

Rahul Singha

a year ago

Hello Lavanya. Please note that the Duolingo English Test is an English language exam. Candidates can take the Duolingo test to prove their english communication skills.

U

Ufuoma Peace

a year ago

When I registered and pay, can I write the test immediately

Reply to Ufuoma Peace

Hello Ufuoma. Yes, you can start the test immediately after purchasing it. You will get one credit for purchasing one DET. On purchasing a DET bundle, you will get two credits. These credits are used to attempt the Duolingo English Test. Candidates are provided a total of 3 attempt for using the cre

...Read more

p

priya sapkade

2 years ago

If we get 100 score it is enough for pass duolingo exam.

Reply to priya sapkade

Hello Priya. Obtaining a good DET score can help you in getting admission into your desired educational institution. The desired test scores are decided by the universities as part of their admission criteria. A score of 100 falls in the Upper-Intermediate (85-120) category. It implies that one can

...Read more

a

aman

2 years ago

If i received score in range of 90-135 in duolingo practice test then what can be my actual english test if i give i just anticipating answer based on previous experiences that people had with them.

Reply to aman

Hello Aman. The score which you've obtained in your practice test does not give an absolute real picture of the score you'll obtain in DET. Scores obtained in the practice test roughly predict your real test scores. Scores of the real test are usually an average of your practice test scores. You can

...Read more

a

aman

2 years ago

sorry for grammatical mistake i didn't recognize before posting and now, i am not able to edi that