How Duolingo English Test Can Help You Get a Canada Student Visa
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In 2024 alone, over 137,000 Indian students enrolled in Canadian institutions. Recent policy changes, including the removal of the SDS program, have created more flexibility in choosing English proficiency tests, making the DET an increasingly popular option for visa applicants.
Securing a Canadian student visa is a crucial step in making your study-abroad dream a reality, and the Duolingo English Test (DET) can significantly streamline this process. As Canada remains one of the most sought-after destinations for international students, proving English language proficiency is a key requirement for obtaining a study permit.
With DET's online accessibility, quick results, and widespread acceptance at 375+ Canadian universities, the Duolingo English Test offers a practical pathway to strengthen your visa application. From understanding why DET is a reliable choice to ensuring you meet all document requirements, here's what you need to know about using this test to help secure your Canadian study permit.
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Importance of the DET Test For Studying in Canada
Choosing the right language proficiency test can streamline your application process for the Canadian student visa and improve your chances of acceptance. Canada recently removed the mandatory Student Direct Stream (SDS) requirement, a program that previously required Indian students to submit specific documents, including an IELTS score.
This change offers more flexibility in choosing an English proficiency test. The Duolingo English Test (DET) is one of the most accessible, reliable, secure and affordable options for students applying to Canadian institutions. Unlike traditional tests like IELTS or TOEFL, the DET is entirely online, can be completed in under an hour and costs approximately INR 6,000. Students receive their DET results within 48 hours, making it a convenient choice for those on a tight application timeline.
A significant advantage of the DET is its widespread acceptance; over 375 universities in Canada, including 92% of Canadian public colleges, recognise the test. Notable institutions that accept the DET include:
- University of Toronto: Canada’s top-ranked public research university known for its academic excellence.
- McGill University: One of the country’s oldest and most prestigious institutions.
- University of Waterloo: Famous for its co-op programs in engineering and computer science.
- University of Alberta: A research-intensive university with strong global recognition.
- Seneca College: Offers hands-on learning and practical training in various fields.
- Dalhousie University: Known for its leadership in sustainability, digital innovation and ocean research.
- University of Manitoba: The oldest university in Western Canada with strong community-focused research initiatives.
Additionally, if your university accepts DET, no separate English proficiency test (EPT) is required for your visa application, simplifying the process further. Check out the complete list of DET accepting universities in Canada.
For students unfamiliar with the format, DET provides free practice tests to help applicants prepare. Its ease of access, affordability and fast turnaround make it an excellent choice for Indian students looking to strengthen their study permit applications.
Ensure You Have the Right Documents
A strong application requires thorough documentation. Missing or incomplete paperwork is one of the most common reasons for visa rejections. Here are the key documents needed for a smooth application:
- Letter of Acceptance: You must have an official acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
- Proof of Financial Support: Show that you have enough funds to cover tuition, living expenses and return travel. This can include bank statements, an education loan or a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC).
- Medical Examination & Police Clearance: You may need a medical exam by an approved panel physician and a police clearance certificate to demonstrate good health and character.
- Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): A well-crafted SOP explaining why you chose Canada and how your studies align with your career goals can strengthen your application.
Updated Post-Graduation Work Opportunities
One of the main reasons students choose Canada is the opportunity to work after graduation. Recently, Canada relaxed its post-graduation work permit (PGWP) policies to support international students seeking employment. Now, students graduating from programs of at least two years in length at public colleges or universities can qualify for a three-year work permit, enhancing their chances of securing long-term job opportunities in Canada. Staying updated on such policy changes is essential when planning your education and career path.
Despite recent policy changes, Canada remains a welcoming destination for international students. By choosing a widely accepted English proficiency test like the Duolingo English Test, preparing your documents meticulously and staying updated on visa regulations, you can enhance your chances of securing a student visa. Start early, stay informed, and take the next step toward your study-abroad journey with confidence!
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.
Candidates do have the option of cancelling or rescheduling the Duolingo English Test. Test takers have the choice to either cancel or reschedule the whole or part of the test. But make sure that you do so as soon as possible so as to avoid any rescheduling or cancellation fees.
Apart from this, certain conditions are imposed once the candidate has attempted the test once. If you wish to cancel or reschedule your DET, log in to your account and click on the 'My Tests' section. You will then be able to either cancel or reschedule your test here on the basis of your requirements.
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.
The application process at the University of Manchester may vary depending on the course and level of study. However, here is the application process for UG and PG courses:
The Undergraduate Application Process:
Step 1: You can apply through the UCAS common application portal.
Step 2: Go to the website and select the course you are interested in.
Step 3: Ensure you meet the Entry requirements (Academic qualifications, English proficiency, etc.
Step 4: Once you decide on the course, submit documents such as SOP, Transcripts and personal statements.
Check out: tips to improve your SOP.
Step 5: You can track the application's progress through your given credentials by UCAS.
Step 6: Once the applicant submits the application to UCAS, it forwards to the University, and the admission teams carefully analyse the application document.
Step 7: The university will send you an offer letter once selected. Hence keep checking your UCAS portal for your application status.
The Postgraduate application process:
Step 1: Select the postgraduate course you are interested in from the University of Manchester.\
Step 2: Ensure you meet the entry requirements for the chosen program, as they vary depending on the course.
Step 3: Complete the online application by providing your personal information.
Step 4: Upload the required documents, such as Academic transcripts and proof of English language proficiency ( TOEFL/ IELTS). experience in your fields and references (depending on the course). You also may require Two LORs depending on the course.
To make your admission better, check out the following: How Admission Officers Evaluate your application.
Step 5: If your application is successful, you will receive an offer from the University of Manchester.
Here are few changes announced for Duolingo English Test 2025:
- Fee Increased: Duolingo Fee for Indians is USD 70 (INR 6,000). Earlier, it was USD 55.
- Dual Camera Requirement: You need to set up another camera which will record you and your computer screen.
- AI Use: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now being used to enhance the assessment of a candidate's language proficiency more comprehensively.
After applying to Hertfordshire University UK, the applicants are going to receive an initial decision about their application within 2-3 working days. After the submission of the application and documents, the applicants are required to pay their tuition deposit. Then, complete the Sponsorship interview and the financial declaration. International students are required to pay a deposit of £5,000 before registration. The balance can be paid in line with the liability dates related to the year and entry of the semester.
Yes, you can do Duolingo english test booking in advance according to your time. Also, you can do Duolingo test booking just a few minutes before taking the Duolingo exam. The USP of Duolingo English Test (DET) is students can take the test from anywhere at anytime. Duolingo scores are accepted by more than 4,000 universities and institutions across the globe.
The Bournemouth University ranks highly as part of UK-wide rankings given by a number of notable ranking platforms. Shiksha ranks it #59 as part of its the latest popularity rankings. An unofficial source ranks BU, #105 as part of its National University Rankings for 2025, while another major college/university ranking platform ranks it #56 as part of its UK University Rankings 2025.
Some of its streams are also ranked by Shiksha, as given below:
| Stream | Shiksha Popularity Ranking |
|---|---|
| Engineering | #85 |
| Business & Management | #85 |
| Mass Communication | #27 |
| Nursing | #31 |
| Arts | #50 |
| Law | #65 |
| Science | #72 |
| Accounting | #90 |
This account contains a repository of informative articles by external authors with domain expertise in various aspects of guiding students on how to go about pursuing their undergraduate and postgraduate studies ab... Read Full Bio
Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum Vitae
A straightforward process, booking a Duolingo English Test (DET) is not a hard not to crack. DET is an online test which one can take from anywhere and at anytime. If you wish to appear for the exam, you will have to book a slot for the same. One can do so at the time of registration. You will obtain an email confirmation of the registration along with further instructions. One does not need to take an appointment to take the test or visit a test venue in order to take the DET as the same is online. After the registration for DET is done, one can take the test within 21 days.