Planning to study abroad or apply for immigration? One of the most important steps is proving your English language proficiency. Two popular tests that often come up are **IELTS** and the **Duolingo English Test (DET)**. But which one is the right choice for **you**?
In this blog, we’ll compare both exams side by side to help you make an informed decision.
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### 🎓 What is IELTS?
**IELTS (International English Language Testing System)** is one of the most widely accepted English language proficiency tests. It is jointly managed by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge English.
- **Modules**: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking
- **Duration**: Around 2 hours and 45 minutes
- **Format**: Paper-based or computer-based at official test centers
- **Cost**: Around $180–$200 (BDT 20,000–23,000)
- **Validity**: 2 years
- **Accepted in**: Almost all universities and immigration systems in the UK, Canada, Australia, the USA, and Europe
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### 🌐 What is Duolingo English Test (DET)?
**Duolingo English Test** is a relatively new but fast-growing online-based test. It’s designed to be taken at home, making it more accessible and affordable.
- **Modules**: Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking (Integrated)
- **Duration**: Around 1 hour
- **Format**: Completely online, taken from home
- **Cost**: $59
- **Validity**: 2 years
- **Accepted in**: Over 4,000 universities, especially in the USA and Canada
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### 🔍 IELTS vs Duolingo: A Comparison
| Feature | IELTS | Duolingo |
|----------------------|--------------------------------|------------------------------|
| **Test Type** | Offline / Computer-based | Online (from home) |
| **Cost** | Higher (~$180–200) | Lower ($59) |
| **Test Location** | In-person test centers | From home |
| **Test Duration** | ~2 hours 45 minutes | ~1 hour |
| **Result Time** | 5–7 days | 48 hours |
| **Global Acceptance**| Very widely accepted | Accepted but more limited |
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### ✅ Which One Should You Choose?
**Go for Duolingo if:**
- You're on a tight budget
- You want to take the test from home
- Your target university accepts DET (mostly in USA/Canada)
**Go for IELTS if:**
- You're applying to universities in UK, Canada, Australia
- You’re planning for immigration or PR
- You want a more universally accepted certificate
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### 📝 Final Thoughts
Both IELTS and Duolingo are great options, depending on your goals, timeline, and budget. Make sure to check the **requirements of your target university or immigration authority** before choosing. With the right preparation, you can succeed in either test.
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