When choosing the right English proficiency test for study abroad or immigration, understanding the exam structure is key. Today, we’re diving into the format of two popular options: the Pearson Test of English (PTE) and the Duolingo English Test (DET).
Both are designed to assess your English skills — but they do it in very different ways. Let’s break it down section by section so you know exactly what to expect!
📝 Overview of the Exam Formats
| Feature | PTE Academic | Duolingo English Test |
|---|---|---|
| Test Duration | ~2 hours | ~1 hour |
| Test Mode | Computer-based, at a test center | Online, from home |
| Result Time | 2–5 days | 48 hours or less |
| Scoring Scale | 10–90 points | 10–160 points |
| Cost | ~$180 USD | ~$59 USD |
🗣️ Speaking Section
- PTE: Integrated with writing, this section includes tasks like:
- Read Aloud
- Repeat Sentence
- Describe Image
- Retell Lecture
- Answer Short Questions
➤ Tip: Pronunciation and fluency are key here.
- Duolingo:
- Speak about an image or situation
- Read aloud words and sentences
- Extended speaking (30-90 seconds) on a given topic
➤ Tip: Be natural but structured in your response.
📝 Writing Section
- PTE:
- Summarize Written Text (10 mins)
- Write Essay (20 mins, 200–300 words)
- Duolingo:
- Write one or two short answers (up to 50 words)
- Extended writing (50–100 words)
➤ Tip: Focus on clarity and grammar over length.
📖 Reading Section
- PTE:
- Multiple-choice (single/multiple answers)
- Re-order paragraphs
- Fill in the blanks
- Duolingo:
- Identify real English words
- Read and complete sentences
- Highlight errors
➤ Tip: Vocabulary and grammar rules are tested subtly.
🎧 Listening Section
- PTE:
- Summarize spoken text
- Multiple-choice
- Fill in the blanks
- Highlight incorrect words
- Write from dictation
- Duolingo:
- Listen and type spoken words
- Listen and choose correct statements
- Dictation and spoken phrases
➤ Tip: Duolingo’s audio clips are short, so pay close attention!
📊 Scoring & Evaluation
- PTE:
Each task contributes to multiple skills. For example, “Read Aloud” impacts both speaking and reading scores. AI-based scoring evaluates fluency, grammar, vocabulary, and content. - Duolingo:
Adaptive test: the difficulty adjusts based on your responses. You’ll get an overall score (10–160), plus subscores in Literacy, Comprehension, Conversation, and Production.
🎯 Which One is Right for You?
| You Should Take… | If You Want… |
|---|---|
| PTE | A detailed, traditional format accepted widely in academic and immigration settings. |
| Duolingo | A flexible, budget-friendly option with fast results and at-home convenience. |
✅ Final Thoughts
Both PTE and Duolingo are valid and widely accepted English tests. Your choice should depend on:
- The requirements of your university or visa
- Your comfort level with each format
- How much time and budget you have