Duolingo English Test Registration 2026: New Fees & 2-Camera Rules

The Duolingo English Test is a great way to prove your English proficiency. This test is an essential step to getting into an English-speaking university.

But why choose Duolingo over the competitors? And how do you register for the test?

We’re here to explain it all, starting with why you should consider the Duolingo English Test.

Firstly, it is highly cost-effective compared to other global options. As of 2026, the standard Duolingo English Test registration fee is USD 70 (approximately INR 5,900).

When compared to IELTS (approx. INR 17,000–18,500) or PTE Academic (approx. INR 17,000), choosing Duolingo saves international applicants a substantial amount on testing overheads.

But why is it so much cheaper?

It’s only taken online, so they don’t have any testing centres to pay for, and they can pass that saving onto you. The test also needs fewer people involved because it is automated and uses artificial intelligence.

There are some downsides to it, though. You can only use a Duolingo English Test to apply to universities, not for immigration.

For these, you would need to use the more expensive IELTS or PTE tests. And it’s important to check whether your institution accepts it before you book.

Is the duolingo english test accepted by universities?

Yes, the Duolingo English Test is accepted by thousands of universities worldwide, especially for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions. Many institutions across the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and Europe now recognise it as a valid proof of English proficiency.

However, acceptance is not universal. Some universities, courses, or departments may still prefer IELTS or PTE, so we always recommend checking your chosen university’s language requirements before booking your test. At Edvoy, we help you confirm acceptance so you don’t risk wasting time or money.

Plan your study-abroad journey to get 10% off on Duolingo. Sign up now.

Duolingo English Test registration process

The first thing to remember about the Duolingo English test is that there are no testing centres and no exam dates. So you can take it anywhere you like at any time you like. This makes it really flexible and easy to register as you don’t need to make any travel plans or book time off.

Here is the Duolingo English Test registration process, which is nice and simple:

1. Go to the Duolingo English Test website - https://englishtest.duolingo.com/test_takers
2. Click “PRACTICE FREE” or “Sign Up” to register your account using your email address and age, or link your Google profile. Important 2026 Update: Your account setup will prompt you to confirm that you possess a compatible desktop computer alongside a secondary smart device (smartphone or tablet) needed for cross-proctoring security.
3. 3. Now you need to select what you are interested in, choosing from (you can only pick one):
   • Undergraduate university admissions
   • Graduate admissions (MBA, PhD, etc)
   • Middle or high school admissions
   • Applying for a job or promotion
   • None of the above
4. They’ll then ask you how you heard about the Duolingo English Test with up to three options to choose from.
5. After setting up your preferences, your dashboard becomes fully accessible. Here, you can take unlimited 15-minute practice tests or skip straight to purchasing your exam vouchers.
6. Note that your 21-day test validity countdown begins the exact moment you pay for your test, not when you create the account. Ensure your testing environment and secondary camera hardware are ready within this 3-week window.
7. After you’ve paid you need to take a Pre-Test Survey before you’re able to take the test. This helps Duolingo to find out a little more about you.
8. You’re now registered and ready to take the test whenever suits you!

Making your Duolingo English Test purchase

When you complete your checkout, Duolingo offers flexible payment methods including international credit/debit cards, PayPal, and regional local banking pathways. The individual test tier is USD 70. 

However, you can register for the Two-Test Bundle for USD 118 directly on this page, bringing individual test entry down to USD 59. An optional 'Fast Track' score processing add-on is available for USD 39, which secures your official certified results within 12 hours.

The account you use to buy the test is the one that needs to take the test. It’s not possible to buy a test for someone else unless you use their own account to do so.

You can buy Duolingo English Test bundles, where you can get two tests at the same time for a discount price. This could be useful if you want to have two attempts at it.

Don’t forget you can take as many practice tests as you want before taking the actual test. So you might only need one attempt to get the score you need.

Duolingo limits how many tests you can buy to three tests in a 30-day period. A bundle would count as two of those three tests even though you bought them as a package. For a bundle, you have 21 days to take your first test and then 21 days from that date to take the second test.

If you fail to take your test within the 21-day period, Duolingo will cancel it without a refund. The only circumstances where you might get a refund would be if there was a technical problem with your test or results. If this happens you’d need to contact Duolingo’s support team for help.

Duolingo english test validity and retakes

Your Duolingo English Test score is valid for two years from the test date. After this period, universities will not accept the score, and you’ll need to retake the test if required.

You can take the Duolingo English Test up to three times within a 30-day period, which gives you flexibility if you want to improve your score. We recommend using practice tests before retaking it so you maximise your chances without unnecessary costs.

Also Read: Duolingo English Test and Results

Duolingo english test score requirements

Most universities set a minimum Duolingo English Test score between 95 and 120, depending on the country, course, and level of study. Competitive universities or courses like medicine, law, or postgraduate programmes may require higher scores.

Your required score can also vary based on whether you’re applying for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree. Because requirements differ widely, we guide you at Edvoy to check exact score expectations for each university before you apply.

Note: Always verify score requirements with the university, as they can change yearly.

Countries where duolingo acceptance is strongest

The Duolingo English Test is most widely accepted in:

• The United States
• The United Kingdom
• Canada
• Australia
• Parts of Europe

Acceptance may vary by university and course, even within the same country. That’s why we help you shortlist universities where your Duolingo score meets the language requirements before you apply.

Who should choose duolingo vs IELTS or PTE?

Choosing the right English test depends on your study goals, budget, and timelines.

Choose the Duolingo English Test if:

• You want a cheaper option
• You prefer taking the test from home
• You are applying only to universities
• You need fast results

Choose IELTS or PTE if:

• You need English proof for immigration or visas
• Your university does not accept Duolingo
• You prefer a test centre environment

We help you compare your options at Edvoy so you can choose the test that actually supports your study abroad plans.

Preparing for the Duolingo English Test

Once you have registered and paid for your test, it’s up to you to prepare for it. This includes thinking about when you will take it, so you need to have the time available when you won’t be disturbed or distracted. You’ll also need a test environment that is comfortable and quiet to help you focus.

Adequate preparation means auditing your physical hardware workspace. You will need a desktop or laptop computer running the official, downloadable Duolingo English Test desktop app, equipped with a functional webcam, microphone, and front-facing speakers. 

Crucially, you also need a smartphone or tablet to act as your secondary camera, which must be set up on your side to record your keyboard layout and hands. Headphones are strictly banned, and you will be asked to pass a digital Ear Scan using your webcam before your exam session launches.

When initializing the check-in interface, you must submit a valid photo ID. For students registering from India, only a valid physical Passport is accepted. Alternative identification like Aadhaar cards or voter IDs are rejected by verification systems.

Clear your desk completely of pens, papers, or unauthorized items. Your primary phone must be placed away from arms-reach, set to landscape orientation, and active strictly as the side-angle security camera monitor.

The only other preparation you need at this point is to ensure you have had a good night’s sleep beforehand. The advantage of the Duolingo English Test is that you can take it at whatever time of day you like. And of course, go to the bathroom before you press start!

Now you have completed your Duolingo English Test registration and preparation and are ready to take it.

Frequently Asked Questions

When and where can you take the Duolingo English Test?

Because the test is entirely completed online, you can take it anywhere. Unlike other tests, there are no testing centres that you need to attend. Make sure it is somewhere that you can concentrate and hear the questions. You also need to be able to hear clearly when you are completing the speaking part of the test. So, a public place is not advisable.

What is the best way to practice for the Duolingo English Test?

The official practice test on the Duolingo English Test website is an excellent way to prepare for the real test. It will ask you the same types of questions to help you get used to answering them and feel more confident about what will happen in the test itself. It is a good idea to read, write, speak and listen to as much English as possible in the build-up to taking the test. This can be as simple as watching or listening to English-language movies or music. You could also write English shopping lists or read news or blogs in English.

Can you use the Duolingo English Test for a student visa?

While many countries accept DET scores for your university admission letter, visa pathways vary by country. For example, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) does not accept DET for the fast-track Student Direct Stream (SDS).

Similarly, the Australian Department of Home Affairs generally requires an IELTS or PTE score for standard student visa approvals (Subclass 500). However, DET is widely trusted for student visa processing inside the UK and USA if your institution sponsors your application.

How fast do Duolingo English Test results come?

You usually receive your results within 48 hours of completing the test. This makes Duolingo one of the fastest English proficiency tests available, especially if you’re working with tight application deadlines.

Is the Duolingo English Test easier than IELTS?

The Duolingo English Test is shorter and more flexible, but it is not necessarily easier. It tests reading, writing, listening, and speaking in adaptive formats, so difficulty adjusts based on your performance. Preparation is still essential if you want a strong score.

What happens if your Duolingo test is invalidated?

If Duolingo detects rule violations, your test may be invalidated and you won’t receive a score. This usually happens due to background noise, leaving the screen, or using unauthorised materials. Following the test rules carefully reduces this risk.