English-language

For international students, one of the most common questions during the application process is: Do schools actually prefer TOEFL, IELTS or the Duolingo English Test (DET)?

The short answer: No, they don’t.

Most universities list several accepted tests on their official admissions websites – TOEFL, IELTS, the DET and others. Once a test is listed, it means the school recognises it as a valid and reliable measure of English proficiency. In other words, there’s no hidden bias in favour of one over the others.

In recent years, the Duolingo English Test (DET) has become one of the most convenient and affordable options for students to prove their English proficiency. But the question on many students’ minds remains: Is the DET accepted by universities and visa authorities worldwide? The answer is yes – with some caveats depending on the country. 

Here’s a breakdown of DET acceptance of F-1 visas in the United States, study permits in Canada, the UK’s student visa and more.

The Duolingo English Test (DET) has rapidly grown in popularity over the past few years, but misconceptions still surround it. Whether you’re applying to a university or a visa programme, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. We debunk four of the most common myths about the DET and set the record straight.

Myth 1: Universities don’t accept the DET

Fact: More than 5,700 programmes around the world accept the DET, including many of the world’s most prestigious institutions.

Sponsored content: created in partnership with Duolingo.

Choosing a university and navigating the application process can be daunting for international students. But many people are willing to share their experiences and make the application process go more smoothly.

Sponsored content: created in partnership with Duolingo.