TOEFL vs. Duolingo English Test: Which One is Right for You?

For international students aiming to study in the United States, demonstrating English proficiency is a crucial step in the application process. Among the most popular exams for this purpose are the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and the Duolingo English Test (DET). Both tests serve the same general purpose, but they differ significantly in format, cost, and acceptance. Understanding these differences can help you choose the test that best aligns with your goals and circumstances.

TOEFL Overview

The TOEFL is a well-established English proficiency test, widely accepted by universities across the United States and around the world. It is known for its academic focus, simulating the types of tasks you would encounter in a university setting. The TOEFL iBT is divided into four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing, and typically takes around four hours to complete.

Key Benefits of the TOEFL:

Widespread Recognition: Accepted by over 11,000 institutions worldwide.
Detailed Feedback: Provides comprehensive scoring, which helps identify strengths and areas for improvement.
Academic Focus: Prepares you for the kind of English you will use in a university environment.

Considerations:

Cost: The TOEFL can be expensive, especially when considering retakes.
Time Commitment: The test is lengthy, and preparation can be time-consuming.

Duolingo English Test Overview

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a newer, more modern alternative to traditional language exams. It is fully online, adaptive, and takes only about an hour to complete. The DET is increasingly accepted by U.S. universities, offering a more flexible and affordable option for students.

Key Benefits of the DET:

Affordability: Significantly cheaper than the TOEFL, making it accessible to more students.
Convenience: Can be taken at home, at any time, with results available within 48 hours.
Adaptive Testing: The test adjusts to your ability level, which can reduce the stress of taking the exam.

Considerations:

Recognition: While growing, the DET is not yet accepted as widely as the TOEFL.
Less Detailed Feedback: The scoring is less detailed compared to the TOEFL, providing less insight into specific areas of strength and weakness.

Comparing the Two Tests

Acceptance by Universities:
- TOEFL: Universally accepted by U.S. universities.
- DET: Increasingly accepted, but not yet universal. Always check the specific requirements of the universities you’re interested in.
Test Format:
- TOEFL: A traditional, structured test with separate sections for each language skill.
- DET: Adaptive and integrates multiple language skills within a single test format.
Cost and Convenience:
- TOEFL: More expensive and requires attending a testing center (though some at-home options are now available).
- DET: Cheaper, more convenient, with the flexibility of taking the test from home.
Scoring and Feedback:
- TOEFL: Provides detailed scores for each section, helping you understand your performance.
- DET: Offers a more general score, with less specific feedback.

Which Test Should You Choose?

Choose the TOEFL if:

You are applying to a university that requires or prefers the TOEFL.
You want detailed feedback on your academic English skills.
You’re comfortable with a more traditional, structured testing environment.

Choose the Duolingo English Test if:

You are on a budget and need an affordable test option.
You prefer the flexibility of taking the test at home.
The universities you’re applying to accept the DET and you want quick results.

Conclusion

Both the TOEFL and Duolingo English Test have their unique advantages. Your choice should depend on your specific needs, the requirements of your target universities, and your personal preferences. By carefully considering these factors, you can select the test that will best help you achieve your academic and scholarship goals in the United States.