Particularly for non-native speakers who want to study or work in nations where English is the primary language of communication, many prestigious universities and colleges worldwide demand that applicants submit the results of their English proficiency exams.
These English proficiency exams are frequently a requirement for admission to such universities. IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo are three of the most popular English proficiency exams.
One of the critical components of the study abroad process is taking an English proficiency test. Several alternatives have recently been accessible, including TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, etc.
While they have the same objective—to assess test-takers proficiency in the English language—they differ slightly in the exam's syllabus, format, scoring, cost, and other factors.
This article compares the well-known English language exams IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo English Test.
Students will benefit from this in-depth research by clearly understanding their differences, allowing them to select the test that best meets their needs.
IELTS: Definition
The International English Language Testing System is one of the tests for English proficiency that is most widely used and acknowledged (IELTS). IELTS is jointly owned and administered by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English. When IELTS was initially developed in 1989, colleges quickly recognized it worldwide. Academic institutions in the USA, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, and New Zealand generally recognize IELTS scores as proof of English language proficiency.
Duolingo: Definition
The most recent test for English proficiency to be accepted by universities and colleges worldwide is the Duolingo English Test. Although it isn't as well-known as IELTS or TOEFL, it is steadily gaining acceptance in the study abroad community. Due to the extensive course material provided by Duolingo, the relatively low exam fees, and the fact that this test is available online and can be taken from any location, more students are deciding to take it.
Additionally, more and more foreign universities are accepting the results of the Duolingo English Test as proof of English language proficiency every year.
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Talk to an ExpertTOEFL: Definition
The oldest existing English proficiency test is the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), which was first released in 1964.
ETS, the organization that also administers the GRE, is in charge of and conducts the TOEFL. Many colleges worldwide, including most universities in the United States, recognize TOEFL scores as evidence of English language proficiency.
Duolingo Vs. IELTS Vs. TOEFL: Score Comparison
Each exam uses a different scoring system. While Duolingo and the TOEFL chose to report results in terms of score points, the IELTS assigns you a precise band based on how well you speak English. Despite using various scoring systems, they can be contrasted based on each score/band proficiency level. The scores on the Duolingo English Test are shown in the tables below, along with their corresponding IELTS bands and TOEFL scores.
Duolingo Vs. IELTS Score
|
Duolingo Score |
IELTS Score |
|
10 |
1.5 |
|
15 |
2 |
|
20-25 |
2.5 |
|
30-40 |
3 |
|
45-50 |
3.5 |
|
55-60 |
4 |
|
65-70 |
4.5 |
|
75-80 |
5 |
|
85-90 |
5.5 |
|
95-100 |
6 |
|
105-110 |
6.5 |
|
115-120 |
7 |
|
125-130 |
7.5 |
|
135-140 |
8 |
|
145-150 |
8.5 |
|
155-160 |
9 |
Duolingo Vs. TOEFL Score
|
Duolingo Score |
TOEFL Score |
|
10-25 |
0 |
|
30 |
1 |
|
35 |
2-4 |
|
40 |
5-8 |
|
45 |
9-13 |
|
50 |
14-19 |
|
55 |
20-25 |
|
60 |
26-31 |
|
65 |
32-37 |
|
70 |
38-43 |
|
75 |
44-49 |
|
80 |
50-55 |
|
85 |
56-61 |
|
90 |
62-67 |
|
95 |
68-73 |
|
100 |
74-79 |
|
105 |
80-85 |
|
110 |
86-91 |
|
115 |
92-96 |
|
120 |
97-102 |
|
125 |
103-107 |
|
130 |
108-112 |
|
135 |
113-115 |
|
140 |
116-118 |
|
145 |
119 |
|
150-160 |
120 |
Duolingo Vs. IELTS Vs. TOEFL: Comparison Chart
|
Comparison parameter |
Duolingo |
IELTS |
TOEFL |
|
Mode of examination |
Computer-based |
Computer-based Paper-based |
Computer-based Paper-based (Available in limited centers) |
|
Exam Fees (USD) |
$49 |
$149 |
$185 |
|
Duration of the Exam (Total) |
45 minutes |
164 minutes |
206 minutes |
|
Results Declaration |
48 hours |
3-5 days (Computer-based) 13 days (Paper-based) |
8 days |
|
Number of sections |
2 |
4 |
4 |
|
Sections |
1. Adaptive section (reading, writing, listening, speaking) 2. Video Interview |
1. Reading 2. Speaking 3. Listening 4. Writing |
1. Reading 2. Listening 3. Speaking 4. Writing |
|
Scoring Range & Methods |
Score (10-160) |
Bands (0-9) |
Score (0-120) |
English language proficiency is one of the basic requirements for international students from non-English speaking nations who want to pursue their education overseas.
Candidates from Asian countries such as India, where English is a second language, must pass these exams.
Although they operate somewhat differently, the three examinations are all intended to gauge students' proficiency with the English language.
The most well-known tests widely accepted are IELTS and TOEFL, but Duolingo is a recent entrant with a slight variation from the other two examinations.
Students should choose practice exams that are comfortable for them to study for and take, both in terms of the test's format and their ability to do so.
The differences between the Duolingo English Test, IELTS, and TOEFL are notable. Each test has unique elements that may suit various people depending on their needs and interests.
Exam takers should review the three tests' syllabuses and exam formats before selecting the one that best meets their requirements.
Additionally, take essential to confirm in advance whatever English proficiency test the university or college you intend to apply to accepts.
