TOEFL vs. IELTS vs. Duolingo: Which is Easier?

A student's resume will look better if they graduate with international experience in the age of globalization. Studying abroad has long captivated students, whether it's for better professional opportunities, exposure to diverse cultures, or the thrill of independence. Do you frequently consider pursuing your education abroad? Well, being aware of the stages involved in studying abroad would make the experience more enjoyable for you.

Language proficiency is a key component of the requirements for colleges and academic institutions in nations with a native English-speaking population. You grow weary of dealing with unsolved queries like, "Should I take up a language competence test? Is TOEFL better than IELTS? Should I also think about taking the Duolingo English Test?

The English Proficiency Test Should Be Taken by Whom?

If English is not your first language and you are a student who wants to pursue higher education overseas, you will probably need to take an English proficiency test in order to be admitted to nations where the language is spoken there. The test results account for a sizable portion of your application.

Additionally, learn how to write a statement of purpose, which can assist you with a critical part of your application. Taking tests like the TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo as an international applicant demonstrates your language skills. Selecting a test from the list that is suggested is frequently perplexing.

This article compares the three widely used tests-TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo English Test-in great detail. This side-by-side comparison of the TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo would answer a lot of your questions and guide you toward the best choice. Let's review the key points from each of the three tests.

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

Inception

Since 1964, the Educational Testing Service (ETS) has designed and administered the TOEFL, one of the most commonly used language competence examinations.

Acceptance

150 different countries and more than 11,000 universities accept TOEFL results for admission.

Test Structure

Both an Internet-based test (iBT) and a paper-based test (PBT) are offered for the TOEFL.

While the TOEFL - iBT takes three hours to test the candidate's hearing, speaking, reading, and writing abilities, the TOEFL PBT takes two and a half hours to do so. The time it takes to announce the results ranges from 6 to 10 days.

Exam Fee

Depending on the country, the cost of the TOEFL exam ranges from $160 to $300. Indian applicants are charged $180 for each attempt.

IELTS ( International English Language Testing System)

Inception

The British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English jointly run IELTS, which was founded in 1980.

Acceptance

More than 10,000 academic institutions in 140 nations, including the US, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, and Britain, accept IELTS test results.

Test Structure

The Academic IELTS module and the General IELTS module are the two types of IELTS that are administered. Additionally, the candidate has the choice of taking either a paper-based or online test. The tests last 2 hours, 45 minutes (165 minutes), and they assess the candidate's abilities in speaking, reading, writing, and listening. The results of the paper-based test can be obtained after around 13 days, whereas the results of the computer-based test are announced within 3 to 5 days.

Exam Fee

The test fee for IELTS is $149.

Duolingo English Test

Inception

Duolingo English Test is the most recent addition to the roster of English Proficiency Tests. Since 2016, Duolingo, a well-known platform for language learning, has been running it.

Acceptance

Over 3000 universities worldwide accept the results of the Duolingo English Test, according to Duolingo.

Test Structure

The three components of the online test-Quick Set-up, Adaptive Test, and Video Interview-take a combined hour to complete. Results are announced in less than 48 hours.

Exam Fee

The cost of the proficiency test is a reasonable $49.

IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo

Let's use the table below to simplify the comparison.

TOEFL Advantages

The most extensively used and recognized language proficiency test is the TOEFL.

Because it is a thorough and accurate test, TOEFL offers candidates a practical choice.

Disadvantages

Due to the test's popularity, getting a spot to take it is fairly difficult. To get a spot, you might have to wait.

longer testing period.

The exam is more expensive than average.

The declaration of the results takes six to 10 days.

IELTS Advantages

Students who have been learning British English favor it. Indian students hence favor IELTS.

When taking a proficiency test for a job or immigration, persons who need to speak English well choose the IELTS General test over the TOEFL.

The most common test provided is IELTS. IELTS is preferred by those who have limited time.

Disadvantages

IELTS administers speaking examinations in person. The candidates must set aside two days for the exams.

Results declaration could take longer.

Some people believe the IELTS Writing test to be more difficult.

Duolingo English Test

Advantages

With a price of $49, it is easy on the bank account.

It only takes an hour to complete the test from home at any time.

Results are announced in less than 48 hours.

Disadvantages

In contrast to TOEFL and IELTS, it is not generally accepted by many universities and institutions.

There aren't many practice materials available.

For some candidates, the time might not be enough.

Thus, each of these tests has advantages and disadvantages when compared to the TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo English Test. First and foremost, find out whether Language Proficiency Tests are accepted by the institution or institute. It is crucial for test-takers to evaluate and comprehend the characteristics of each test, properly review the syllabus, the test format, and the marking scheme, and then select the one that best suits them. Getting professional assistance would make the procedure easier overall.