To ace language proficiency assessments Indian students often find themselves at a crossroads, deliberating between two prominent exams to study abroad– Duolingo and IELTS. Each offers a unique approach to evaluating English language skills, crucial for academic and professional advancements.
Duolingo and IELTS stand as prominent methods for assessing an individual’s command over a foreign language. Each test evaluates English language skills, albeit through distinct approaches.
Duolingo operates as an online platform for language education, offering various language courses, whereas IELTS is recognized as a global English language examination system.
In this article, get to know about the different aspects of Duolingo and IELTS and understand which may be more suitable for Indian students seeking international education.
IELTS vs. Duolingo- a comparative study
| Details | IELTS | Duolingo |
| Conducting body | British Council, IDP, and Cambridge Assessment English | Duolingo, Inc. |
| Purpose | To test the English language proficiency of people belonging to non-native English-speaking countries. | To help users learn languages |
| Format | Paper-based and computer-based | Computer-based |
| Sections | Reading, writing, listening, and speaking | Adaptive section and video interview section |
| Total duration | 2 hours and 45 minutes | 45 minutes |
| Scoring | On a scale from 0 to 9 | 10 to 160 |
| Fees (subject to change) | INR 17,000 | INR 199 to INR 15,000 |
| Results declared | 13-15 days after the test | 48 hours |
| Validity period | Two years | Unlimited |
Universities that accept Duolingo and IELTS scores
Both Duolingo and IELTS are widely accepted by a host of universities globally, some of the popular ones are:
| University | Accepted Duolingo score | Accepted IELTS score |
| Harvard University | 125 | 7.5 |
| Stanford University | 110 | 7.0 |
| University of Cambridge | 120 | 7.0 |
| University of Oxford | 120 | 7.0 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 120 | 7.0 |
| University of California, Berkeley | 115 | 6.5 |
| University of Toronto | 110 | 6.5 |
| University of Sydney | 115 | 6.5 |
| University of Edinburgh | 110 | 6.5 |
IELTS vs. Duolingo- What is the format of the exam?
The initial discussion between the IELTS and Duolingo tests lies in their structure. One can appear for IELTS in two variants: Academic and General. In the IELTS framework, although the listening and reading sections are consistent for all examinees, the content for reading and writing differs.
The Listening, Reading, and Writing segments must be taken consecutively on the same day without any breaks. The Speaking segment, on the other hand, can be scheduled up to a week before or after the other sections. IELTS has a total duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes.
On the other hand, the Duolingo English Test employs an adaptive testing approach. This means the test dynamically adjusts the level of difficulty based on the test taker’s responses. Each correct answer increases the difficulty of the subsequent question, and each incorrect answer lowers it. This adaptive approach is a key feature of the Duolingo English Test, distinguishing its testing methodology. The entire Duolingo English Test can be completed in about 1 hour, highlighting its efficiency and adaptability in assessing language proficiency. Now, let’s examine the specific formats of both the IELTS and Duolingo exams.
When are the Duolingo vs IELTS tests conducted?
In discussions about Duolingo vs IELTS, the timing and scheduling of these exams often go unnoticed. IELTS exams are available exclusively on Saturdays and Thursdays, with the British Council offering the paper-based version on 48 selected days annually. For those opting for the computer-based format, tests are available five days a week.
Conversely, Duolingo provides a more flexible arrangement, allowing candidates to take the test without scheduling a specific appointment. After registering and settling the fee, participants can complete the test from any location, including the comfort of their own homes, at a time that suits them best.
Pros and cons of Duolingo vs IELTS for Indian students
Duolingo English test
Pros:
- Convenience and accessibility from anywhere
- Affordable
- Faster results
Cons:
- Limited acceptance from certain institutions and nations
IELTS
Pros:
- Universally recognized and accepted
- Offers a personalized assessment through the speaking section
Cons:
- High cost and a longer wait time for results
- A paper-based exam requires one to travel to a test center
Convenience
IELTS offers prospective students the opportunity to appear for the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections either on paper or via computer, However, the Speaking section is conducted face-to-face with an examiner. As a result, participants might need to visit a designated testing center to complete their exam at a predetermined time and place.
On the other hand, the Duolingo English Test allows participants to take the entire exam online, providing the freedom to choose both the timing and setting that best suits their needs. This level of flexibility in deciding where and when to test could be advantageous for those who prefer a more comfortable and familiar environment.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Duolingo English Test and IELTS for Indian students largely depends on individual needs, goals, and circumstances. Those prioritizing convenience, speed, and cost may find the Duolingo English Test an appealing option.
However, for students targeting institutions or countries with specific requirements or those who prefer a more traditional testing environment, IELTS remains the gold standard. Ultimately, students should carefully consider the acceptance policies of their target institutions, preparation time, and personal comfort with each test format before making a decision.
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