Duolingo English Test: The Step-by-Step Guide

Quick Navigation:

• Account Registration - Sign up and profile setup
• Test Purchase - Payment and package options
• Test Scheduling - On-demand booking system
• Pre-Test Setup - Hardware checks and verification
• Test Interface - UI elements and adaptive scoring
• Question Types - All 19 question interfaces
• Test Completion - Results processing timeline
• Score Report - Understanding your results
• Sending Scores - Sharing with institutions
• FAQ & Edge Cases - Troubleshooting and appeals

Account Registration and Profile Setup

This section describes the initial user onboarding process, from arriving at the registration page to having a fully activated account. The process uses a low-friction design. It collects minimal data up front and includes an initial user segmentation survey.

1.1 Initial Sign Up: Email and Google Sign In

The main entry point for new users is the englishtest.duolingo.com/register URL.¹ The signup page is built for speed and simplicity, and it offers two ways to create an account: a traditional email and password combination or a one click Google authentication option.² This dual-path approach serves users who want convenience and those who prefer manual account control. The entire registration can be completed in just a few minutes, a key feature that underscores the platform's emphasis on being easy to use and fast.³

The streamlined nature of this initial step points to a sign-up strategy that focuses on getting more users by lowering barriers to entry. Deeper data collection is pushed to later stages of the user journey, so the user is invested in the platform before being asked for more detailed information. This is a classic user acquisition tactic, meant to build momentum and cut initial drop-off.

1.2 Required Information and Validation

No matter which sign-up method users choose, they must provide a minimal set of information: their age, full name, email address, and a secure password.³

We enforce a strict policy at this stage. Users must register with their real name exactly as it appears on their government-issued identification. If the registered name and the ID shown during pre-test verification do not match, the test can be invalidated and the score rejected.⁴

The system also checks age. There are no academic prerequisites to take the test. Candidates under the age of 13 must obtain and declare parental consent to register, to comply with child privacy regulations.⁴

1.3 Email Verification and Account Activation

After the user submits the registration form, the system sends an automated verification email to the address they provided. This security step checks that the account belongs to the user and that they can access the email for future messages. Those messages are critical. They include notifications regarding test purchase, status updates during the scoring process, and the final notification of result availability. The user must click the link in the email to fully activate the account and gain access to the dashboard.

1.4 Initial Profile Setup: Test Purpose

After users activate their account, the system guides them through a short, required survey that asks their main reason for taking the Duolingo English Test (DET). The survey sorts users into categories by goal.³ The available options typically include:

1. Undergraduate university admissions
2. Graduate admissions (e.g., MBA, PhD)
3. Middle or high school admissions
4. Applying for a job or promotion
5. None of the above

This initial sorting is an important data point for Duolingo. It lets the company collect information on users and their reasons for taking the test. Duolingo likely uses this data in internal reports and in marketing. It may also use the data to make the user's dashboard and future messages more relevant to their stated goals.

Test Purchase and Payments

This section gives a detailed breakdown of the monetization and transaction flow, from choosing a test package to getting a purchase confirmation. It reviews the platform's pricing strategy, payment infrastructure, and common user friction points.

2.1 Test Package Selection: Single Test and Bundles

After completing registration, the user is taken to their dashboard. A prominent call to action reads "Buy Now" or "Purchase the Test".¹ The purchase screen shows at least two options. This follows a common software pricing approach meant to raise the average transaction value.

1. Single Test: The standard option to purchase one test credit.
2. Two Test Bundle: A discounted package that lets a user buy two tests at a lower per-test price.⁵

Pricing has varied over time. Sources report costs from $55 to $70 for a single test.⁵ The bundle clearly saves money for users who expect they will need a second attempt to reach their target score.⁵

2.2 Add on Services: "Faster Results" Option

During checkout, Duolingo offers an upsell called the "Faster Results" service.⁶ This premium option serves applicants with urgent deadlines.

1. Standard Delivery: Results are delivered within 48 hours.
2. Expedited Delivery: For an additional fee, cited between $33 and $40, results are guaranteed within 12 hours.⁶

This offering shows Duolingo knows the user's situation. It addresses the anxiety and urgency of application cycles. It also charges users for faster results.

2.3 Checkout Flow: Payment Methods and Regional Options

The payment form is standard. It asks for the user's email, country or region, and postal code. The site uses these to calculate taxes and keep records.⁶

The platform accepts widely used payment methods so many users can pay:

1. Credit/Debit Cards: The platform accepts all major card networks, such as Visa and MasterCard.⁵
2. PayPal: A trusted option for users who prefer not to enter card details directly.⁵

To serve a key international market, Duolingo added a region-specific payment gateway:

1. Alipay: Duolingo supports Alipay for users in China, reflecting a region-specific payment setup.⁷

2.4 Applying Coupon and Voucher Codes

The payment interface has a field to "apply coupon code".⁸ It supports several strategic goals:

1. Marketing Partnerships: Offers promotional discounts through educational partners and test preparation platforms.⁹
2. Institutional Programs: Lets universities and other institutions buy test credits (vouchers) in bulk and distribute them to their applicants.¹⁰
3. Access Programs: Supports distribution of fee waivers to low-income students, fulfilling Duolingo's mission to reduce barriers to education.¹¹

2.5 Payment Confirmation and Receipts

After a successful transaction, the system immediately redirects the user to a confirmation page that says "Thank you for your purchase".¹² At the same time, the system sends an email receipt to the user's registered address. The email acts as proof of purchase and confirms that the test credit is now active and available in the user's account.¹²

Policy Box: 21 Day Test Validity Period

A critical policy applies to every test purchase. Once a test credit is bought, the user has a strict 21-day window to take the test.⁵ If the user does not take the test within that time, the credit expires and the fee is forfeited with no refund.⁵ For test bundles, the 21-day window covers the first test; a new 21-day period starts as soon as the first test is completed for the second credit.³ This policy creates urgency, pushes people to finish their tests, and makes revenue recognition simpler for the business.

Troubleshooting Sidebar: Payment Failures and Support

Widespread, systemic payment problems do not get much discussion on forums like Reddit. Still, several common transaction failures can occur. The lack of public complaints suggests that users with issues are either a small minority or are routed to official support. Users who have payment problems should follow a simple troubleshooting process before contacting support.

1. Verify Card Details: The most common source of failure is a simple typo. Carefully re-enter the card number, expiration date, and CVC code to ensure accuracy.¹³
2. Check International Transaction Settings: Many financial institutions disable international online transactions by default as a security measure. Users should check their mobile banking application or contact their bank directly to confirm that their card is enabled for international payments.¹³
3. Try an Alternative Payment Method: If a credit card transaction repeatedly fails, switching to PayPal (or vice versa) can often resolve the issue, bypassing any specific restrictions tied to the initial method.¹³
4. Contact Duolingo Support: If all other steps fail, contact the official DET support team. Use the bug report form on the Duolingo website or email their support address, support@testcenter.zendesk.com.¹³

Test Scheduling and Management

This section describes the DET's on demand approach to test scheduling, which marks a major shift from the traditional appointment based models used by competitors. It explains how users start a test and the rules for retakes and cancellations.

3.1 On Demand Scheduling Model

The Duolingo English Test changes how test scheduling works. There are no fixed test dates, no designated test centers, and no need to book a specific time slot.¹⁴ Its main benefit, stressed in official materials, is that users can take the test "anytime, anywhere," at their convenience.³

The act of "booking" or "scheduling" is the same as buying the test credit. The purchase starts a 21 day validity period, during which the user can choose when and where to take the exam.¹⁵ This setup removes the heavy travel and cost burdens of going to a physical test center. Those burdens are a major pain point for users of competing exams like IELTS and TOEFL.¹⁶ This flexibility is more than a feature. It is central to the DET business model. It lets the company grow quickly and cut running costs. It also gives a strong selling point for marketing.

3.2 Dashboard: Accessing a Purchased Test

After a test credit is purchased, the user's main dashboard becomes the central place to start tests. The dashboard shows the available test credit and the time left in the 21 day validity window. From the dashboard, the user can choose these actions ⁵:

1. Try the test: Access a free 15 minute practice version to get familiar with the question formats.
2. Purchase the test: Buy extra test credits.
3. Take the test / START TEST: Begin the official, certified exam session.

To start the certified test, the user must download and install the Duolingo English Test desktop application. The test cannot be taken in a standard web browser. This helps keep the testing environment more controlled and secure ¹.

3.3 Rescheduling and Cancellation Policies

Because the DET is on demand, the rules for rescheduling and cancellation are almost nonexistent.¹⁷

1. Rescheduling: No time slot is ever booked, so there is no formal rescheduling process. If a user wants to take the test at a different time, they can. They must do it within their 21 day validity period.
2. Cancellation: A test is marked as canceled if the user does not take it within the 21 day window. The test credit is then forfeited, and no refund is issued.⁹ Refunds are rare. Duolingo will consider them only when a user experienced a major technical problem and contacted support in time to document it.⁵
3. Retake Limits: To prevent abuse and protect test integrity, Duolingo limits how often a user can take the test. A user can buy or take up to three certified tests in any rolling 30 day period.¹⁸

Pre Test Setup Sequence

This section documents, in sequence, the mandatory 5-minute onboarding process every user must complete before starting the adaptive test. This sequence is not merely a technical check. It is a rigorous security and legal protocol that ensures the integrity and validity of every test session.

4.1 System and Hardware Requirements

Before you start the test, make sure your environment and equipment meet a strict set of requirements. If you do not meet any of them, you may not be able to start the test or your results could be invalidated.

1. Computer: A laptop or desktop computer running a supported version of Windows or macOS is required. Mobile devices such as phones or tablets are not allowed for taking the test.⁴
2. Browser: Launch the test application from a supported web browser, such as Google Chrome or Opera.⁴
3. Peripherals: A working front-facing camera, microphone, and speakers are all required. Do not use headphones or earbuds, because your ears must remain uncovered and visible to the camera at all times.³
4. Internet Connection: A stable and reliable internet connection is required for the duration of the test to prevent interruptions.¹⁹
5. Testing Environment: Take the test in a quiet, private, well-lit room. No other individuals may be present in the room for the entire duration of the test.³

4.2 Onboarding: System Checks

The first phase of setup guides the user through hardware checks in the desktop app. This keeps technical problems from affecting the test session. The app prompts the user to do the following checks ²⁰:

1. Microphone Test: The app asks the user to speak a few words. It shows a volume meter that must react to their voice to confirm the microphone is picking up audio.
2. Speaker Test: The app plays a sound. The user confirms they can hear it.
3. Camera Test: The app activates the front-facing camera and shows the video feed. The user confirms the camera works and that they are clearly visible.

4.3 Identity Verification: ID Submission and Validation

This is a key security step to stop identity fraud. The user must show a valid, unexpired, government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or driver's license.⁵

The test application guides the user through taking a clear photo of their ID. The user is prompted to hold their ID up to the computer camera and place it inside an on-screen frame. The captured image must be legible and clearly show the user's full name, date of birth, and photograph.⁴ Human proctors use this image, along with a photo the application takes of the test-taker's face, during the post-test review to confirm that the person who took the test matches the person who registered.

4.4 Room Scan Protocol: Room Check and Scan

Users must perform a room scan to protect the testing environment. While the provided materials do not spell out the procedure for the DET, general proctoring walkthroughs show it is a standard, required step for high stakes remote proctoring.²¹ The process requires the user to provide a complete, 360 degree view of their surroundings to confirm they are alone and that no prohibited materials, such as notes, textbooks, or secondary electronic devices, are within reach.

The typical procedure has the user slowly rotate their laptop or webcam in a full circle to show the entire room, then scan the desk surface, under the desk, and the immediate floor area. Proctors record and review this video evidence.

4.5 Acknowledging Test Rules

The final step in setup is to review and accept the test rules. The app shows a series of screens. Each screen explains a specific rule or requirement you must follow. You must explicitly acknowledge and agree to each rule before the test starts. These rules include, but are not limited to ²⁰:

1. Be alone in a quiet, well lit room.
2. Keep your ears visible and uncovered, no headphones.
3. Keep your face visible and unobscured.
4. Do not use outside materials, including notes, textbooks, or mobile devices.
5. Do not communicate with any other person.
6. Keep your eyes on the screen.
7. Do not navigate away from the test window for any reason.

This explicit acknowledgment is a binding agreement between you and Duolingo. It creates the contract that supports test security. It also justifies invalidating a score if any rule is broken during the session. This whole 5 minute sequence is not just a technical step. It is a legal and security protocol that underpins the test's validity.

Navigating the Adaptive Test Interface

This section examines the user experience during the test, focusing on the User Interface (UI) elements, the adaptive algorithm's behavior, and the overall flow of the 45 minute adaptive section. The interface uses a minimalist, functional layout that collects data efficiently and keeps the test secure.

5.1 UI Elements: Timers, Progress, Navigation

The in-test interface is simple. It keeps the user's attention on the current task.

1. Timers: Each question shows a clear timer that counts down the time left for that task.⁵ Time limits are strictly enforced. They vary by question type, from as little as 5 seconds for vocabulary identification to several minutes for extended writing prompts.
2. Navigation: The test uses a linear, forward-only navigation model. After a user submits an answer or the timer runs out, the system moves them to the next question. Users cannot go back, review, or change previous answers. A "Next" button lets users move on manually before the timer ends.
3. Progress Indicators: The interface does not show a traditional progress bar, such as "Question 5 of 50." The total number of questions is not fixed. The test does not show how many questions remain. It ends when the grading engine reaches a statistically significant level of confidence in the user's score.¹⁹ This choice stops users from changing their effort or strategy based on where they think they are in the test, and it forces consistent performance throughout.

5.2 Adaptive Scoring: How Question Difficulty Changes

The Duolingo English Test is a Computerized Adaptive Test (CAT), a type of test that adjusts question difficulty to a person's ability in real time.²⁰

1. Core Mechanism: The algorithm changes question difficulty based on how the user performs. If a test-taker answers a question correctly, the system raises its estimate of their ability and then gives a harder question. If they answer incorrectly, the estimate drops and the system selects an easier question.²² This repeated process helps the test find the user's true English level quickly and efficiently.
2. Item Selection Process: The test's algorithm draws from a very large pool of questions. For each new question, it first picks a subset of items that match the user's current estimated proficiency level. To improve security and avoid item overuse, the algorithm adds randomness by selecting one question from that suitable subset. The test usually starts with moderately difficult items to set an initial performance baseline before it adjusts.

5.3 Submission, Transitions, Section Pacing

Answers are submitted in one of two ways. The user clicks the "Next" or "Submit" button after completing a task. Or the answer submits automatically when the timer for that question expires.

Transitions between questions are immediate. Loading time is minimal. There are no scheduled breaks during the entire 45 minute adaptive test section.¹⁸ The exam's pace is relentless. Strict timers on each individual question dictate the pace. This design requires users to keep a high level of focus and to manage their time effectively on a question by question basis, rather than on a section wide level. The combination of forward only navigation, adaptive difficulty, and variable length creates a highly efficient and secure testing environment. It is designed to gather the maximum number of relevant data points in the shortest possible time.

All 19 Question Type Interfaces

This section is a complete visual and functional list of every question type a user will encounter on the DET. The questions test a wide range of skills, from basic vocabulary to complex, integrated communication.

6.1 Reading and Comprehension Tasks

1. Read and Select: The user sees words one at a time or in a group. For each word, they must say whether it is a real English word. The interface shows the word and a nearby checkbox or "Yes/No" buttons. The timer is very short, usually 5 seconds per word, and it tests quick vocabulary recognition.
2. Read and Complete: The user sees a paragraph with several words that have missing letters. They type the missing letters into inline input boxes to finish the words correctly. This task checks vocabulary in context and spelling. The timer covers the whole paragraph, usually 3 minutes.
3. Fill in the Blanks: The user reads a single sentence with one missing word. They type the correct word into the blank. This task measures vocabulary and grammar in context. The timer is per sentence, usually 20 seconds.

Practice Reading Questions:

• Practice Full Reading Section →
• Try Fill in the Blanks →

6.2 Listening and Transcription Tasks

1. Listen and Type: The user hears an English sentence read aloud and must type it exactly into a text box. The interface shows a text input area and a speaker icon. The user can replay the audio two more times, for a total of three plays. The time limit is 1 minute per sentence.

Practice Listening Questions:

• Practice Full Listening Section →

6.3 Speaking and Production Tasks

1. Read Aloud: The user sees a sentence on the screen. They must record themselves reading it clearly and accurately. The interface shows the sentence and a recording status indicator. Time limit: 20 seconds.
2. Speak About the Photo: An image appears on the screen. The user must describe it aloud for at least 30 seconds. The interface shows the image, a microphone status indicator, and a timer for the 90-second maximum response time.
3. Read, Then Speak: The user gets a written prompt to read. They have 20 seconds to prepare. Then they must speak about the topic for 30 to 90 seconds.
4. Listen, Then Speak (Listen Then Respond): The user listens to a spoken question or prompt. They then give a spoken response for 30 to 90 seconds.
5. Speaking Sample: This is an extended, ungraded speaking task that is shared with institutions. The user receives a prompt and has 1 to 3 minutes to record a spoken response. This gives a qualitative sample of their speaking ability.

Practice Speaking Questions:

• Practice Full Speaking Section →
• Try Interactive Speaking →

6.4 Writing and Production Tasks

1. Write About the Photo: An image appears. The user must write one or more descriptive sentences about it within a 1 minute time limit. The interface shows the image and a text input area.
2. Writing Sample: Similar to the Speaking Sample, this is a longer, ungraded writing task that is shared with institutions. The user responds to a written prompt. They have 3 to 5 minutes to write their response. It gives a qualitative look at their writing skills.

Practice Writing Questions:

• Practice Full Writing Section →
• Try Interactive Writing →

6.5 Interactive Question Sets

These newer question types are more complex. They simulate real-world academic and social interactions.

1. Interactive Reading: This is a multi part task based on a single reading passage. The user engages with the same passage over 5 to 6 consecutive questions. These include tasks like "Complete the Sentences," "Complete the Passage," "Highlight the Answer," "Identify the Idea," and "Title the Passage." The interface keeps the passage visible while cycling through the different question formats.
2. Interactive Listening: This task simulates a conversation. The user listens to a scenario and then takes part in a dialogue by choosing the most appropriate responses from a list. At the end, the user has 75 seconds to write a summary of the conversation they just took part in.
3. Interactive Writing: This is a two part task. First, the user writes about a given topic for 5 minutes. After they submit, the system shows a follow up prompt that builds on the initial topic. The user then writes an additional response for 3 minutes.
4. Interactive Speaking: This task simulates a conversation where the user must give spoken responses. They listen to a series of 5 to 6 prompts within a single scenario, and they must respond verbally to each one.

Practice Interactive Questions:

• Practice All Interactive Sections →
• Try Full Interactive Experience →
• Advanced Interactive Practice →

Ready to Practice? Now that you understand all 19 DET question types, put your knowledge to the test with our interactive practice platform!

DET Question Type Matrix

The following table gives an overview of all 19 question types, showing their purpose, how often they appear, time limits, and how they affect the user's final score. This matrix is the main reference for how the DET assessment is organized.

Test Completion and Score Processing

This section explains what happens after a test is submitted, up to the point when the results are certified and released. The timeline and communication protocols shape the user experience. They are a major factor that sets the platform apart.

7.1 Final Submission Confirmation

Immediately after the user completes the final Writing and Speaking Samples, the test session ends. The desktop application shows a final confirmation screen. It tells the user their test is complete and that it is uploading to Duolingo's servers for proctoring review and scoring. This screen lets the user know right away that the technical part of the process is finished.

7.2 Post Test Waiting Period: Status and Timelines

After the user submits a test, it goes into a review and certification phase. The user's dashboard will show the status as "Processing" or "Under Review." This means AI systems and human proctors are examining the test.

The platform offers two delivery timelines.

1. Standard Timeline: The official, widely marketed processing time for results is within 48 hours (2 days) of test completion.¹⁶ User reports on Reddit generally match this timeline. One user said their certified result arrived in 46 hours.
2. Expedited Timeline: Users who bought the "Faster Results" add on at checkout can expect their certified scores within 12 hours.⁶

This fast turnaround is a main product feature, not just a logistical result. It uses a fast process that combines an AI powered grading engine with human proctoring oversight.²³ This speed directly addresses a major pain point for applicants, the long and anxious wait for results from traditional testing services, and it gives the platform a strong competitive advantage.

7.3 Email Notifications and Result Availability

We notify the user by email about any status change.

1. Results Certified: After review and score certification, we email the user to say their results are ready.²⁴ The email asks them to log back into their Duolingo English Test account to view the official score report.
2. Test Not Certified: If a test cannot be certified because of a rule violation or a technical issue that cannot be resolved, we email the user. The message explains why the test was invalidated and outlines the next steps, such as how to appeal or retake the test.

Score Report: Interface and Interpretation

This section breaks down the final score report and explains each part. It covers the overall score, the detailed subscores, and the qualitative samples. The report gives institutions a thorough view, while staying clear and easy for the test taker to understand.

8.1 Accessing and Viewing Certified Results

Users log into the DET website and go to the "My Results" or "My Tests" section of their dashboard.²⁵ That page lists all tests they have taken, with the date and the certification status for each. Users can click a certified test to open the full, detailed score report.

8.2 Score Report: Overall Score, Subscores, CEFR Levels

The official score report is a digital certificate made of several parts. It gives a complete view of the test taker's English proficiency.

1. Header Information: The top of the report shows the test taker's full name, the photo taken during the pre test setup, and the test date. It also includes a unique certificate URL. Institutions use that URL to verify the score's authenticity.
2. Overall Score: A single main score appears prominently. It is reported on a scale from 10 to 160, in 5 point increments.²⁵
3. Subscores: The report shows two layers of subscores for more detail. Individual Subscores: These measure proficiency in the four traditional language skills: Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening.
4. Integrated Subscores: These scores reflect skills that are often used together in real settings. They are the average of two individual subscores. Literacy: The average of Reading and Writing.
5. Comprehension: The average of Reading and Listening.
6. Conversation: The average of Listening and Speaking.
7. Production: The average of Writing and Speaking.

CEFR Level: The overall score maps to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This gives a widely used description of proficiency, from A1 (Beginner) to C2 (Proficient). Institutions use it to place the score within an international standard.²⁵

8.3 Writing and Speaking Samples

The report also includes the qualitative samples recorded in the test's final section. Test takers can watch the video of their Speaking Sample and read the full text of their Writing Sample. These parts are ungraded, but institutions receive them with the scores. They give admissions officers direct, unedited evidence of an applicant's ability to produce spontaneous spoken and written English. That material adds a rich, personal dimension to the evaluation.²⁰

8.4 Downloading and Sharing the Certificate

The score report interface lets users download a PDF of their certificate. However, Duolingo's official policy says those PDFs are not official proof of score. The only official way for an institution to receive and verify a score is for the test-taker to share it directly from their Duolingo dashboard. That policy makes sure institutions receive scores from the source of truth, and prevents tampering or fraud. The platform also offers an integration with LinkedIn, so users can add their certified result to their professional profile.

DET Score Concordance

To help institutions that use older testing systems, Duolingo provides official concordance tables. These tables map DET scores to the scales used by TOEFL and IELTS. Admissions departments use the mapping to set minimum score requirements and to compare applicants who submitted different types of English proficiency tests.

Source: Compiled from official Duolingo English Test documentation and concordance studies.²⁵

Understanding Your Score

Get detailed explanations and preparation strategies in our Complete DET Preparation Guide.

Sending Scores to Institutions

This section explains the final, most important step in the user's journey, which is sharing their certified results with universities and other organizations. The process is simple, secure, and free.

9.1 Score Sharing Interface

From the certified score report page, the user can start the sharing process by clicking the "Share Score" or "SEND RESULTS" button. A major benefit of the DET is that score sharing is completely free. Users can send their results to an unlimited number of institutions at no additional cost. This contrasts with traditional tests, which often charge a fee for each extra report.¹⁶

9.2 Searching and Selecting Institutions

The score sharing interface centers on a search feature.

1. Search: The user types the name of their target institution into a search bar.
2. Select: As they type, a live list of matching institutions appears. The user selects their desired schools by checking the box next to each name.
3. Specify Program: For many universities, the user must choose the specific program or admissions office they are applying to (e.g., Undergraduate, Graduate, Law School). This step ensures the score goes to the correct department and is a common source of user error if overlooked.
4. Add Application ID: If the institution requires an Application ID for matching purposes, the interface provides a field for the user to enter this information.

9.3 Bulk Sending and Managing Recipients

Users can select multiple institutions in one session to send their scores in bulk. A limit applies to how many institutions can be selected in a single batch. Sources disagree on the exact number. Official help center articles list both 15 and 40 as the maximum. This discrepancy suggests the policy may have been updated. 40 is the more likely current limit. Users who need to send scores to more than the batch limit must contact Duolingo support for approval. Approval is not guaranteed.

9.4 Confirmation and Tracking of Sent Scores

After they select their institutions and click "Send," the user sees a confirmation message. The system lets the user track and verify which institutions received the score. By returning to the "My Results" page, the user can see a full list of all institutions they previously shared their score with, including the specific program type and the date the score was sent. This log gives the user a clear audit trail.

Ready to Share Your Scores?

Learn the complete DET journey from registration to results in our From Registration to Results Guide.

FAQ and Edge Cases

This final section covers rare but important cases, and offers information for users who run into problems or have questions outside the normal workflow.

10.1 Test Invalidation and Appeals

1. A test result can be invalidated if human proctors reviewing the session recording find a violation of the test rules. Common reasons include another person being seen or heard in the room, the test-taker looking away from the screen for a long time, using headphones or other prohibited items, or navigating away from the test application window.18 Technical problems that corrupt the test recording can also cause an invalidation.
2. We will notify you by email and on your DET results page. Your test status will show as "Invalid." We will give a specific reason for the decision.42
3. If you think your test was invalidated unfairly, you have 72 hours from the notification to appeal. You will see an "Appeal This Result" button on the results page. Click it and provide a written explanation for why you are appealing. An appeals specialist will re-review your entire test session and email a final decision within four business days.42

10.2 Technical Issues

1. If your internet disconnects or the app crashes during the test, contact Duolingo support right away and report the issue. If they can verify the problem, they may give you a credit to retake the test for free.4
2. If you paid but did not get a confirmation email and the test is not in your account, first check your spam or junk folder. If you still do not see the email, the payment may have failed or the system may be delayed. Email the DET support team at support@testcenter.zendesk.com with your registration details and any proof of payment.20

10.3 Score Validity Period

1. How long are my Duolingo English Test scores valid? A certified Duolingo English Test score is valid for two years from the date the test was taken.12 After two years, the score expires and can no longer be officially sent to institutions.

10.4 Score Sharing Issues

1. An institution says they haven't received my score, but I sent it. What should I do? This is a common issue that can usually be resolved by following these steps: 1. Check the Recipient: Log in to your DET account and go to the "My Results" page. Check the list of institutions you sent your score to. The most common error is sending the score to the wrong program within the same university (e.g., sending to the "Graduate School" instead of "Undergraduate Admissions"). Make sure both the institution name and the program are correct. 2. Contact Support: If the details are correct and the institution still cannot find your score, click the "Help" button on the DET website to contact Duolingo support. They will investigate from their side.

Need More Help? Explore our comprehensive guides for detailed preparation strategies and advanced tips.

Additional Resources

For comprehensive preparation strategies and detailed guides, explore our related content:

• Complete DET Preparation Guide - Comprehensive overview of all DET aspects with detailed strategies
• From Registration to Results Guide - Step-by-step walkthrough from signup to receiving scores
• Interactive Deep Dive into DET - Advanced strategies and tips for question types

Practice Resources

Ready to practice the question types you've learned about? Try these targeted practice sessions:

Core Question Types:

• Reading Questions →
• Listening Questions →
• Speaking Questions →
• Writing Questions →

Specialized Practice:

• Try Fill in the Blanks →
• Try Read Then Speak →
• Try Write About Photo →

Works Cited