Top 4 Myths About Duolingo English Test

Duolingo

Raj
Raj Vimal
Assistant Manager Editorial
Updated on Nov 26, 2025 10:49 IST
The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a fast, affordable, and widely accepted English proficiency test, but there are some myths about this exam. Most myths are about its acceptance for admission and visa application process. Let's know the truth behind this.

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a fast, affordable, and widely accepted English proficiency test, but there are some myths about this exam. Most myths are about its acceptance for admission and visa application process. Let us know the truth behind this.

Myths About Duolingo  English Test

Duolingo English Test is one of the popular English proficiency tests. It is not only affordable but also delivers scores within 48 hours of completing the test. More than 5500 universities worldwide accept DET score for admission, and its popularity is increasing day by day.

But, with the rising popularity of Duolingo English Test, several myths and misconceptions have also surfaced. Mostly myths are about its acceptance, reliability and use in visa applications. Because of which applicants get confused. In this article, we will bust every myth to help you make clear decisions related to taking this English proficiency test.

Table of contents
  • Myth 1: Universities Don’t Really Accept DET
  • Myth 2: DET is Not Preferred by Admission Officers
  • Myth 3: DET is Too New to Trust
  • Myth 4: DET can’t be Used for Visas

Myth 1: Universities Don’t Really Accept DET

This is the most common myth about the Duolingo English Test, but the reality is different. More than 5700+ programs worldwide, including Ivy League and top global universities, accept Duolingo English Test scores. In this list, some of the top universities in the world, like Harvard University, MIT, and Princeton University.

  • DET Acceptance in USA: Duolingo is accepted by the majority of US universities
  • DET Acceptance in Ivy League: All Ivy League schools accept it.
  • DET Acceptance in Ireland: Almost all universities in Ireland accept DET
  • DET Acceptance in Top Universities: Best universities in the world accept DET.

Well, you can check the complete list of universities on the official website of DET.







Myth 2: DET is Not Preferred by Admission Officers

Some students assume that even if universities list the Duolingo English Test on their websites, admissions officers still favour other English proficiency tests. This is NOT TRUE!

DET score is widely accepted because of its fast score delivery, within 48 hours. Universities wouldn't list a test on their official page if they weren't 100% confident in it. Keep in mind that if the test is listed, it is accepted. If it is not listed, you can always ask because it takes a while for universities to update the admission info.

Related Pages:

Duolingo Eligibility How to Register for Duolingo How to Make Duolingo Slot Booking?
Duolingo Exam Pattern Duolingo Speaking Topics Duolingo English Test Sample Papers
Score Predictor

Predict your IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE in just 4 steps!

Share 12th Board, Percentage, english score
Get estimated scores or IELTS, TOEFL & PTE


Myth 3: DET is Too New to Trust

More than 2 million applicants have taken the test since its launch in 2016. This itself clarifies that DET is trusted by many test takers. So, this is nothing but a misconception. Yes, Duolingo English Test is new in comparison to other traditional English proficiency tests, and it is trustworthy.

Unlike older tests, DET is fully online. Test takers can take this from home.

Also, it uses AI to assess language proficiency which is why you get results in less than 48 hours. DET has introduced a secondary camera requirement to enhance test security and raise the credibility of the test. The additional camera records the computer screen and keyboard during the test, providing an extra layer of monitoring.

Related Read: How AI is Helpful in Duolingo English Test







Myth 4: DET can’t be Used for Visas

Again, it’s a myth! Duolingo English Test is not only accepted for university admission but also for visa applications. Countries like the USA and Ireland accept for visa process similar to IELTS or TOEFL. Similarly, in the UK, universities that accept DET will issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letter.

In short, the Duolingo English Test (DET) is widely accepted and trusted by top universities for admission, and countries for visa applications. As we have busted myths around DET, it will help you to make clear decisions without worrying. However, it is suggested to check the university website before applying.

Q:   Is Duolingo English Test easy for Indian students?
A:

The difficulty level of DET for any student depends on the fluency and knowledge of English language. The adaptive format of Duolingo English Test increases or decreases the difficulty level of exam based on your answer for previous question. Having knowledge of test format, time management skills and good vocabulary can help you to get good score in English proficiency test. 

Q:   How to prepare for UK 10th board exam 2026?
A:
  • Know the UK 10th pattern.
  • Make a proper time table as per the syllabus.
  • Solve old question papers.
  • Make short notes of important formulas and theorems.
  • Revise regularly.
  • Figure out weaker areas and learn them well. 

With proper planning and hard work, students can easily clear the UK 10th board exam.

Q:   How can I get into the University of Lancashire from India?
A:

University of Lancashire accepts country-specific qualifications from overseas applicants. Indian candidates who wish to pursue their higher studies from the university, must meet the University of Lancashire admission requirements for Indian students listed below:

Undergraduate Requirements:

  • Higher secondary school certificate
  • Overall score of 60%  (80% for excellence scholarship)
  • 60% - 70% in Standard XII English (IELTS 6.0 equivalent)

Graduate Requirements:

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in relevant field;
  • Overall score of 58% in bachelor's degree  (80% for excellence scholarship) or 55% in master's degree
  • 65% - 75% in Standard XII English (IELTS 6.5 equivalent)
RecommendationView All

Explore MS colleges in UK

University of Manchester

Manchester, UKPublic

1 courses
30.98 L - 30.98 L
1 courses
39 L - 39 L
University of Glasgow

Glasgow, UKPublic

1 courses
40.35 L - 40.35 L
University of Birmingham

Birmingham, UKPublic

1 courses
40.89 L - 40.89 L
1 courses
36.93 L - 36.93 L
University of Bristol

Bristol, UKPublic

1 courses
35.23 L - 35.23 L
University of Bath

Bath, UKPublic

3 courses
27.02 L - 30.59 L
University of Exeter

Exeter, UKPublic

2 courses
31.04 L - 37.66 L
Durham University

Durham, UKPublic

1 courses
41.31 L - 41.31 L
1 courses
38.21 L - 38.21 L
Is this recommendation relevant?
Which stage are you in your study abroad journey?

Pick your stage and get free guidance from counsellors who've helped thousands get into top universities.

Research IconStarting research
Shortlist IconShortlisting colleges
Exam IconExam preparation
SopLor IconSOP/LOR writing
Scholarship IconScholarship & finance
Visa IconVisa application
About the Author
author-image
Written by
Raj Vimal
Assistant Manager Editorial
Hi, I am Raj. I help Indian students figure out study abroad without the confusion. For 8+ years, mostly in Ed-Tech, I have written about the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. I cover what peo Read Full Bio
Explore popular study destinations
Resources for you
Understand the process step by step by referring to these guides curated just for you
qna

Comments