Read the tips below to make the most of the Duolingo English Test! Visit our test readiness page for more information.
📺 Watch a video walkthrough
See a short summary of the test experience to get to know the format—it only takes 3 minutes!
📝 Take a free practice test
Try sample test questions so you will know what to expect on the real test in order to do your best. The sample test is free, and you can take it as many times as you want! When completed, the sample test provides an estimated score range.
Keep in mind that the sample test is shorter (only 8 minutes), it is not proctored, and the score range is unofficial and less accurate.
💻 Prepare your test environment
Because the Duolingo English Test is taken online from your computer, you’ll want to make sure to have everything you need to avoid encountering any difficulties when taking the test. You must have:
- A government-issued photo ID
- A quiet, well-lit room
- About 1 hour of uninterrupted time
- A computer equipped with a functioning microphone, speakers, and front-facing camera
- A stable internet connection
Watch this video for tips on setting up your test space!
⏱️ Understand the rules
After you complete the test, proctors will review your test video to ensure that you followed the rules, including but not limited to: not wearing earphones, not interacting with others, not using your phone or other devices, and not looking offscreen. It’s important to follow these rules during the test, or you’ll need to take it again. The test rules are outlined in the FAQs and in the instructions at the beginning of the exam.
🌟 Showcase yourself!
At the end of the test, there is a video and writing sample. Both are included when you share your results with a university. This is a great opportunity for an admissions team to know more about you, and for you to showcase yourself and your English ability. You will be given a prompt for both the video and writing sample and will be asked to speak for 1 - 3 minutes and write for up to 5 minutes about those topics.
Don’t worry—there is a timer that will keep tracking the time for you, and you will be able to review your responses before you share your results with institutions. If you aren’t happy with your performance, you can take the test again!
Ready to try it out?