In the era of globalization, having a foreign experience upon graduation adds value to a student’s resume. Studying abroad has long captivated students, whether it’s for improved professional opportunities, exposure to different cultures, or the thrill of independence. Do you frequently consider studying abroad? You would have a more enjoyable experience if you were aware of the stages involved in studying abroad.
Proficiency in the English language is a prerequisite for admission to universities and other academic institutions in English-speaking nations. The lengthy list of exams wears you out from fighting with problems that remain unresolved, such as “Should I take a language proficiency test? Does TOEFL outperform IELTS? Or should I take the Duolingo English Test into account? You’ve come to the correct place if that’s the case.
Who Should Take the English Proficiency Test?
If English is not your first language and you want to study abroad, you will probably need to take an English proficiency exam in order to be admitted to a country where English is the primary language. The test results are a major component of your application.
Taking assessments like the TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo as an international applicant demonstrates your language skills. Most of the time, selecting from the recommended list of exams is difficult. The three commonly used tests—the TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo English Test—are thoroughly compared in this article. This comparison of the TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo will answer a lot of your questions and assist you in making a wise decision. Let’s examine the salient features of the three examinations.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
Beginning
Since 1964, the TOEFL, one of the most popular language competence exams, has been created and administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).
Acceptance
The TOEFL scores are accepted by more than 11,000 colleges in 150 countries for admission.
Structure of Tests
The TOEFL is administered as both a paper-based test (PBT) and an internet-based test (iBT). The TOEFL PBT evaluates the candidate’s speaking, listening, reading, and writing abilities in two and a half hours, whereas the TOEFL iBT takes three hours to complete. The announcement of the findings takes six to ten days.
Test Fee
Depending on the nation, taking the TOEFL might cost anywhere from $190 to $300. The cost of an Indian candidate’s attempt is $202.
IELTS ( International English Language Testing System)
Beginning
IELTS was created in 1980 and is administered by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English.
Acceptance
More than 10,000 educational institutions in 140 countries, including the US, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, and Britain, recognize the results of the IELTS exam.
Structure of Tests
The two forms of IELTS are the General IELTS module and the Academic IELTS module. Additionally, the candidate can choose between the paper-based and Internet-based tests.
The examinations take two hours and forty-five minutes (165 minutes) to assess the candidate’s speaking, listening, reading, and writing abilities. The results of the paper-based test take around 13 days to arrive, but the results of the computer-based test are announced in 3–5 days.
Exam Fee
The IELTS exam costs $204.
Duolingo English Test
Beginning
The Duolingo English Test is a new addition to the range of English proficiency tests. It has been carried out by the well-known language-learning website Duolingo since 2016.
Acceptance
According to Duolingo, the Duolingo English Test results are accepted in more than 3000 institutions worldwide. Structure of Tests
The exam is administered online and consists of three sections: a video interview, an adaptive test, and a quick setup. The entire process takes one hour. Within 48 hours, the outcomes are announced.
Test Charge
The cost of the proficiency exam is a reasonable $59.
TOEFL
Advantages
a. The most well-known and commonly used Language Proficiency test is the TOEFL.
b. The TOEFL is a convenient alternative for candidates since it is an accurate and well-structured test.
Disadvantages
a. Because of its popularity, it might be difficult to get a spot to take the exam. You might not be able to acquire your spot right away.
b. The findings are announced in around six to ten days.
IELTS
Advantages
a. Students who have been studying British English like it. IELTS is hence preferred by Indian students.
b. People who require the proficiency test for employment or immigration purposes choose the IELTS General over the TOEFL.
c. The most common test is IELTS. IELTS is preferred by those who have less time.
Disadvantages
a. IELTS administers speaking assessments in person. Candidates must schedule two days for the exams.
b. It can take longer to declare the findings.
c. The IELTS Writing test is seen by some as being more difficult.
d. Comparatively speaking, the exam is more expensive.
Duolingo English Test
Advantages
a. It is economical and reasonably priced at $49.
b. The exam takes only an hour to complete and allows candidates to take it anytime from home.
c. The authorities announce the outcomes within 48 hours.
Disadvantages
a. Compared to the TOEFL and IELTS, it is not as widely accepted by many colleges and institutions.
b. There are not many practice resources accessible.
c. Some contenders might not have enough time.
Conclusion
Therefore, each of these exams has advantages and disadvantages when comparing the TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo English tests. First and foremost, find out which Language Proficiency Tests the institution or institute accepts. It is imperative that test-takers properly study the syllabus, exam pattern, and marking scheme, analyze and comprehend the characteristics of each test, and select the one that best fits their needs. Getting expert assistance would make the procedure go more smoothly.
Want to know more about what you should opt for either TOEFL, IELTS, or DUOLINGO? Then, feel free to avail EnrichMyCareer’s Free 15-minute career counseling session.
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Frequently Asked Question
1. Is Duolingo easier than IELTS and TOEFL?
In terms of difficulty, PTE and Duolingo are easier to score on than IELTS and TOEFL. The TOEFL and IELTS exams require comparatively more regular practice and preparation. For example, IELTS’s writing portion simply assigns two tasks.
2. Is Duolingo accepted in the USA?
When applying for a student visa to the United States, the Duolingo English Test is acceptable. Each university has a different minimum DET score. Universities in the United States demand an average DET score of between 100 and 150. Nonetheless, the best colleges typically accept DET scores above 120.
3. What is the hardest English exam?
Since the Cambridge exam suite consists of many examinations tailored to various student profiles and ability levels, it is the most challenging English test to comprehend.
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