TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo for Studying Abroad?

TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo for Studying Abroad?

One of the main requirements for students wishing to study abroad is having an international certificate that confirms their language proficiency. Universities and colleges require language proficiency tests to ensure that candidates can successfully pursue their studies in an academic environment. The most commonly accepted exams are TOEFL, IELTS, and the Duolingo English Test. In this article, we will explore the features of each exam, their differences, and when to choose one over the other.

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

The TOEFL exam is primarily accepted by universities in the United States and Canada. This test evaluates your English skills in an academic context.

• Exam format:
• Reading,
• Listening,
• Speaking,
• Writing
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours
• Scoring system: 0-120 (each section up to 30 points)
• Countries accepting the exam: USA, Canada, Australia, and some European countries
• Who is it for: Ideal for those applying to universities in the USA and Canada. It assesses the ability to understand academic texts and participate in academic discussions.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

The IELTS exam is one of the most widely recognized language tests globally and is required in the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and many European countries.

• Exam format:
• Listening,
• Reading,
• Writing,
• Speaking
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes
• Scoring system: 0-9 (each section is scored on a scale from 0 to 9)
• Countries accepting the exam: United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and many European countries
• Who is it for: Suitable for those planning to study in the UK, Australia, or other European countries. If you value the speaking section, this exam is an excellent choice.

Duolingo English Test

The Duolingo English Test is a relatively new and more affordable exam that is gaining popularity and is accepted by several universities.

• Exam format: Adaptive test (question difficulty changes based on your answers) and video interview
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour
• Scoring system: 10-160 (scored on a point scale)
• Countries accepting the exam: Some universities in the USA, Europe, and Australia
• Who is it for: Ideal for those who want a quick and convenient testing experience. This exam can be taken online from home, and results are available quickly.

Which Exam Should You Choose?

1. Check university requirements: Verify on the official university website which exams are accepted for your desired program.
2. Country preference: TOEFL is more commonly required for the USA and Canada, while IELTS is preferred for the UK and Australia. Some universities also accept the Duolingo English Test.
3. Convenience and cost: Duolingo is cheaper and more convenient but is not accepted by all universities.

Conclusion

Choosing the right language proficiency exam is a crucial step for studying abroad. Each exam—TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo—has its advantages and disadvantages. To make the best choice, carefully review the university's requirements and consider your preferences. For additional support and guidance, feel free to contact us!

2025.03.24 / 16:32