DET Guide
Duolingo English Test Score Chart (2025)
What your DET score means, how it compares to IELTS and TOEFL, and which institutions accept it.
4 min read · Updated April 2025
The Duolingo English Test (DET) scores on a scale from 10 to 160. It also reports four subscores — Literacy, Comprehension, Conversation, and Production — alongside the overall score. Over 5,000 institutions worldwide now accept DET results.
DET Score Conversion Chart
| DET Score | CEFR Level | ≈ IELTS Band | ≈ TOEFL iBT |
|---|---|---|---|
| 160 | C2 | 9.0 | 120 |
| 145–155 | C1–C2 | 8.0–8.5 | 110–118 |
| 130–140 | C1 | 7.5–8.0 | 102–110 |
| 120–125 | B2–C1 | 7.0–7.5 | 95–102 |
| 110–115 | B2 | 6.5–7.0 | 88–95 |
| 100–105 | B2 | 6.0–6.5 | 79–88 |
| 90–95 | B1–B2 | 5.5–6.0 | 72–79 |
| 75–85 | B1 | 4.5–5.5 | 57–72 |
DET vs IELTS vs TOEFL: Key Differences
| Factor | DET | IELTS | TOEFL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test duration | ~1 hour | 2 hours 45 min | 2 hours |
| Format | Online, at home | Test centre (or online) | Test centre (or online) |
| Result time | 1–2 days | 3–5 days | 6–10 days |
| Cost (approx.) | $65 | $250–$300 | $200–$250 |
| Retake policy | Once per 30 days | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Acceptance | 5,000+ institutions | 11,000+ institutions | 12,000+ institutions |
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Estimate my Duolingo English Test score →Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Duolingo English Test easier than IELTS?
The DET is shorter and cheaper, and many test-takers find the adaptive format less intimidating. However, 'easier' is subjective. The AI-proctored format and question variety can be unfamiliar. The main advantage of DET is convenience and cost, not lower difficulty.
How many universities accept the DET?
Over 5,000 institutions across the US, Canada, Australia, and Europe now accept DET results. This number has grown rapidly since 2020. Check Duolingo's official institution list for your specific target school.
Can I use DET for Canadian or UK immigration?
No. DET is not accepted for Canadian immigration (IRCC requires IELTS or CELPIP). For UK visas, only UKVI-approved IELTS tests are accepted. DET is primarily for university admissions, not immigration purposes.