Planning to study abroad? One of the first things you’ll need to check off your list is proving your English language proficiency. Among the most popular tests are the PTE (Pearson Test of English) and the Duolingo English Test (DET). But which one is right for you?
Let’s break down both options so you can make the best choice for your study abroad journey.
🔍 What Are These Tests?
PTE – Pearson Test of English
PTE is a computer-based English language proficiency test accepted by thousands of universities and governments worldwide. It evaluates your Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening skills and is known for its fast results and fair scoring through AI-based assessment.
Duolingo English Test (DET)
The Duolingo English Test is a more recent, budget-friendly, and flexible option. It’s taken completely online from the comfort of your home and covers integrated questions across the same four skills: Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening.
🌍 University & Global Recognition
| Test | Widely Accepted In | Popular For |
|---|---|---|
| PTE | Australia, UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland | Study visas, university admissions, and migration |
| Duolingo | Over 4000 institutions globally including USA, Canada, UK | Mostly for admissions, not accepted for visa in all countries |
👉 PTE is accepted for both university admission and student visa purposes, while DET is mostly limited to university admissions, especially in the US and Canada.
🧩 Test Structure & Difficulty
PTE Academic
- Duration: ~2 hours
- In a test center (online option also available in some cases)
- Includes tasks like essay writing, summarizing spoken text, multiple choice questions, and speaking prompts.
Duolingo English Test
- Duration: 1 hour
- Fully online, can be taken anytime, anywhere
- Adaptive format (questions get harder/easier based on your responses)
- Includes speaking into a mic, writing short answers, and reading aloud.
⏱️ Duolingo is shorter and more flexible, while PTE is more formal and detailed.
💰 Cost Comparison
| Test | Cost (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| PTE | $180–$220 USD |
| Duolingo | $59 USD |
🎯 DET is significantly cheaper, making it a go-to option for budget-conscious students.
🎓 Which Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick guide:
✅ Choose PTE if:
- You’re applying to countries like Australia, UK, or New Zealand where PTE is accepted for both admission and visa.
- You prefer a more comprehensive and widely recognized assessment.
✅ Choose Duolingo if:
- Your chosen universities accept DET and you’re looking for a convenient, cost-effective test.
- You want to take the test from home without booking a slot at a test center.
✈️ Final Thoughts
Both PTE and Duolingo offer excellent options depending on your goals, budget, and location. If visa approval is part of your journey, PTE might be the safer bet. If you’re focused purely on admissions and want speed, flexibility, and affordability — Duolingo could be perfect.
Still unsure? 🎓 Reach out to our experts at Bellview Educator for personalized guidance on the right test for your dream destination!