Image Source: AI Generated With over 13,000 international colleges accepting TOEFL and 11,000 accepting IELTS, choosing the right English proficiency test can feel overwhelming. These two giants, along with the newer Duolingo English Test, each offer unique advantages for international students and professionals.
Whether you're wondering if IELTS vs TOEFL is easier, or considering the faster Duolingo option, your choice can impact both your time and budget. While IELTS takes nearly 3 hours and costs around INR 18,000, the Duolingo test requires just one hour and costs $65. The TOEFL sits between these options at INR 16,900 with a 2-hour duration.
Your decision ultimately depends on your destination, as each test has different acceptance rates across institutions. With TOEFL recognized in 160+ countries and Duolingo rapidly expanding to 4,600+ institutions, you'll need to carefully consider which test aligns with your goals.
Let's explore these options to help you make the best choice for your situation.
The Key Differences Between IELTS and TOEFL
Understanding the fundamental differences between IELTS and TOEFL helps determine which test matches your English skills and personal preferences. Both exams assess the same core language abilities, yet they differ significantly in format, scoring method, and global acceptance patterns.
Test Format and Duration: Structure Comparison
The structure and timing of these tests reflect their different approaches to measuring English proficiency. IELTS takes 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete, considerably shorter than TOEFL which originally took around 4 hours but has been updated to approximately 2 hours for the internet-based test. This substantial difference in duration may affect your test-taking strategy and endurance.
Looking at individual sections reveals more nuanced differences:
Reading Section:
- IELTS: 60 minutes to answer 40 questions
- TOEFL: 35-72 minutes for 30-40 questions (sources vary)[17]
Listening Section:
- IELTS: 30 minutes[17]
- TOEFL: 36-90 minutes[17]
Writing Section:
- IELTS: 60 minutes to complete two tasks[17]
- TOEFL: 29-50 minutes for two tasks[17][19]
Speaking Section:
- IELTS: 11-14 minutes[17]
- TOEFL: 16-20 minutes[17][19]
Perhaps the most striking difference lies in the speaking assessment method. IELTS features a face-to-face interview with a certified examiner. This human interaction allows for clarification and adaptation during the conversation but might create anxiety for some test-takers. TOEFL, meanwhile, requires you to speak into a microphone and have your responses recorded for later evaluation. This computer-based approach eliminates potential examiner bias but lacks the interactive element of real conversation.
The variations extend to test administration as well. IELTS offers both computer-delivered and paper-based testing options, providing flexibility for those who prefer traditional formats. TOEFL is primarily administered on computers, requiring comfort with digital interfaces. Additionally, IELTS holds the speaking test separately from other sections, whereas TOEFL administers all sections in one sitting.
TOEFL focuses on North American accents and academic vocabulary, making it potentially easier for those familiar with American English. Conversely, IELTS incorporates various English accents and a broader range of vocabulary, better reflecting the global nature of the language.
Scoring Systems: How They Measure Proficiency
The scoring methodologies between these tests differ substantially:
IELTS Scoring:
- Uses a band system from 1-9 for each section[19]
- Overall score is the average of all four sections
- Band scores come in whole and half-band increments (e.g., 6.0, 6.5)
- Band 9 represents "expert user" status
TOEFL Scoring:
- Each section scored from 0-30 points[19]
- Total score ranges from 0-120[19]
- Uses a more complex "raw" and "scaled" score system
Understanding how these scores compare is essential, especially when institutions accept either test. According to research-based comparison tables, IELTS and TOEFL scores roughly align as follows:
| IELTS Band | TOEFL iBT Score Range |
|---|---|
| 9.0 | 118-120 |
| 8.5 | 115-117 |
| 8.0 | 110-114 |
| 7.5 | 102-109 |
| 7.0 | 94-101 |
| 6.5 | 79-93 |
| 6.0 | 60-78 |
| 5.5 | 46-59 |
| 5.0 | 35-45 |
| 4.5 | 32-34 |
This conversion helps when comparing requirements across institutions. For instance, many universities require an IELTS score of 6.5-7.5 or a TOEFL score of 80-100 for admission, though top universities often demand higher scores.
The Educational Testing Service (ETS), which administers TOEFL, cautions that these comparison tables should not be the only resource for setting cut scores. The mapping of TOEFL scores to Common European Framework Reference (CEFR) levels is based on standard-setting exercises with educators and subsequent analyzes of test performance in academic settings.
Each test also provides detailed section scores, allowing institutions to evaluate specific language skills. This granular approach helps universities identify candidates with the appropriate proficiency in areas most relevant to academic success.
Global Recognition: Where Each Test Shines
Although both tests enjoy widespread global acceptance, clear geographical preferences exist:
TOEFL Recognition:
- Accepted by over 11,000 institutions in 160 countries
- Predominantly recognized and required in the USA
- Universal acceptance in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France, and Germany
- Accepted for immigration in Australia and New Zealand
- Not recognized for migration to Canada and the UK
IELTS Recognition:
- Accepted by over 12,000 institutions in more than 140 countries[17]
- Widely preferred in the UK, Australia, and Canada[18]
- Favored for immigration purposes in countries like the UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand[18][19]
- Accepted by most institutions in the US
When choosing between these tests, consider your specific destination:
For United States: TOEFL is typically preferred by U.S. institutions, though IELTS is increasingly accepted.
For United Kingdom: IELTS is the preferred test, with a strong focus on both academic and general English proficiency. For UK visa applications, both versions of IELTS for UKVI (Academic and General Training) are approved by the UK Home Office as Secure English Language Tests (SELT).
For Australia and Canada: IELTS is often favored by institutions and is required for many immigration pathways.
For European institutions: Both tests are accepted, with IELTS preferred in some countries, especially the UK and Ireland, while TOEFL is widely accepted by universities in countries such as Germany and the Netherlands.
The choice between IELTS and TOEFL ultimately depends on your target institutions and countries. IELTS comes in two versions - Academic (for education purposes) and General Training (for working professionals and immigration needs), offering flexibility based on your goals.
Beyond institutional preferences, practical factors may influence your decision. IELTS is available in over 140 countries with many testing locations, whereas TOEFL is accessible in more than 170 countries and offers a home edition for added flexibility. Moreover, IELTS test dates occur weekly with 48 test dates available annually, compared to TOEFL's over 60 sessions per year globally, available five days a week in many cities.
Result declaration times also differ slightly - IELTS provides online results in 3-5 days for computer tests and paper-based results in up to 13 days, while TOEFL scores typically become available within 4-6 days from the test date. Both tests' scores remain valid for 2 years.
As English proficiency requirements continue to evolve globally, staying informed about the latest acceptance patterns for your specific institutions and programs remains essential for making the best choice between these widely recognized testing options.
Duolingo English Test: The Digital Alternative
The digital transformation of standardized testing has introduced a newer, faster alternative to traditional English proficiency exams. The Duolingo English Test (DET), launched in 2016, has quickly gained traction as a convenient option for students seeking to demonstrate their English skills without visiting a test center.
How Duolingo's Adaptive Testing Works
Unlike its established counterparts, the Duolingo English Test operates as a computer adaptive test that adjusts question difficulty based on your previous answers. This innovative approach allows for a more tailored assessment experience, with question sequences changing for each test taker during every session.
The test's structure combines adaptive and non-adaptive sections to comprehensively evaluate your English skills. Initially, you'll encounter 15-18 vocabulary items, followed by 6-9 context-based vocabulary questions. Subsequently, the test presents interactive reading and listening sections, each containing two items with multiple tasks.
Consequently, if you answer a question correctly, the next question becomes more challenging. Conversely, if your answer is incorrect, the following question becomes easier. This dynamic adjustment ensures the test accurately pinpoints your proficiency level without requiring the lengthy duration of traditional exams.
The final portion of the test includes various writing and speaking tasks. These range from describing images to responding to interactive writing prompts and completing extended speaking exercises. Notably, the DET takes approximately 45-60 minutes to complete, significantly shorter than IELTS (2 hours and 45 minutes) and TOEFL (1 hour and 56 minutes).
Beyond time efficiency, the adaptive testing methodology offers another key advantage – it can effectively measure your English proficiency with fewer questions. Indeed, despite its shorter duration, the DET comprehensively evaluates all four language skills:
- Reading and writing (assessed through the Literacy subscore)
- Reading and listening (measured by the Comprehension subscore)
- Listening and speaking (evaluated via the Conversation subscore)
- Writing and speaking (reflected in the Production subscore)
Furthermore, unlike traditional tests that measure one skill per subscore, Duolingo's approach assesses how multiple skills are used simultaneously, aiming to gage more natural and effective English communication.
Comparing Duolingo vs IELTS Score Requirements
Understanding how Duolingo scores translate to more established test benchmarks helps you determine if your DET score meets institutional requirements. The Duolingo English Test uses a scoring scale from 10 to 160, with subscores in four key areas.
Here's how the Duolingo scores compare to IELTS bands according to official Duolingo conversion tables:
| IELTS Academic Band | Duolingo English Test Score |
|---|---|
| 8.5-9.0 | 160 |
| 8.0 | 150-155 |
| 7.5 | 140-145 |
| 7.0 | 130-135 |
| 6.5 | 120-125 |
| 6.0 | 105-115 |
| 5.5 | 95-100 |
| 5.0 | 80-90 |
| 4.5 | 65-75 |
| 0-4.0 | 10-60 |
For practical guidance, consider these common equivalencies:
- A DET score of 120-125 generally equates to an IELTS score of 6.5[29]
- A DET score of 130-135 corresponds to an IELTS score of 7.0[29]
- A DET score of 140 approximately matches an IELTS score of 7.5
In addition to the overall score, Duolingo provides four subscores that offer deeper insight into your language abilities. According to Duolingo's technical data, the top 25% of scores per subscore (from May 2023 to May 2024) start from:
- Overall: minimum of 125
- Literacy: minimum of 125
- Comprehension: minimum of 130
- Conversation: minimum of 115
- Production: minimum of 105
Typically, scores above 110 are considered good on the Duolingo English Test, with many universities preferring students who score above this threshold for admissions. Nevertheless, it's essential to verify the specific requirements of your target institutions, as acceptance criteria vary.
Acceptance Growth: Who Recognizes Duolingo Now
The Duolingo English Test has experienced remarkable growth in institutional acceptance since its inception. Currently, the test is accepted by over 5,500 academic programs worldwide—a number that has doubled since 2020. This expansion represents a significant shift in how universities approach English proficiency verification.
Initially, DET gained traction primarily in North America. Presently, however, its acceptance has spread globally, with students in India alone applying to programs in over 83 countries (a 9% increase from the previous year). The test is now recognized by thousands of institutions worldwide, particularly in the USA and Canada.
Notably, the DET is now accepted by the top 25 highest-enrolling universities for international students in the US. This growing recognition stems from several factors:
-
Accessibility and Convenience: The test can be taken from anywhere with an internet connection, with data showing it was taken in almost 40,000 locations in 2023 alone
-
Affordability: The DET offers a more economical option compared to traditional tests
-
Quick Results: Results are typically available much faster than with traditional testing methods
-
Pandemic Adaptation: Many institutions began accepting Duolingo in response to COVID-19 restrictions on in-person testing
Countries increasingly accepting the Duolingo English Test include the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, South Africa, India, Philippines, and Malaysia. This widespread recognition makes DET an increasingly viable option for students targeting institutions across various regions.
For international students from underrepresented backgrounds, the Duolingo test has proven particularly valuable. Research collaboration with a small US university revealed a substantial upward trend among international applicants from underrepresented backgrounds since the institution began accepting the DET.
Despite its growing recognition, some institutions still favor traditional tests like IELTS. In fact, due to DET's relative newness compared to established English proficiency tests, some institutions may require additional documentation alongside DET scores. Therefore, before selecting Duolingo as your testing option, it's prudent to verify its acceptance with your specific institutions of interest.
Security remains a priority for Duolingo, with recent enhancements including a two-camera system that combines webcam and smartphone feeds to give proctors a comprehensive view of the test environment. Additionally, the test now offers enhanced ID verification systems to maintain testing integrity.
The Duolingo English Test represents a significant evolution in language proficiency assessment, combining innovation with practicality. Its adaptive testing methodology, comprehensive skills evaluation, and growing institutional acceptance make it an increasingly popular choice for students seeking an alternative to traditional testing formats.
Choosing Based on Your Personal Situation
Selecting the right English proficiency test requires careful consideration of your specific circumstances and goals. Even as IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo serve the same fundamental purpose—evaluating English language skills—your personal situation ultimately determines which test offers the best path forward. First and foremost, examining these factors ensures you choose an exam that aligns with your unique requirements.
Study Destination Requirements
Your target country and institution play a decisive role in determining which test to take. Different regions have distinct preferences regarding which English proficiency exams they accept:
United States: Most American institutions accept both IELTS and TOEFL, with TOEFL historically enjoying stronger recognition. TOEFL's focus on North American accents and academic vocabulary makes it a natural fit for U.S. universities. Nonetheless, Duolingo has gained remarkable traction in the American education system, now accepted by the top 25 highest-enrolling universities for international students in the US.
United Kingdom: IELTS predominantly leads in UK institutions. For visa applications specifically, you need the IELTS for UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) version, which is approved by the UK Home Office as a Secure English Language Test (SELT). Both Academic and General Training versions exist for UKVI purposes, depending on your specific needs.
Australia and Canada: These countries primarily favor IELTS for both academic admission and immigration processes. Given that, IELTS might be the most strategic choice if targeting these destinations.
Growing Duolingo Acceptance: Alternatively, Duolingo is now recognized by over 5,100 institutions worldwide as of August 2024. Its acceptance continues expanding globally across the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, South Africa, India, Philippines, and Malaysia.
Before making your decision, contact your prospective institutions directly to confirm their current requirements. Some universities maintain specific score thresholds for each test, so thoroughly review their admissions pages or contact their international student offices.
Your Timeline and Budget Constraints
Practical considerations often influence which test best suits your circumstances:
Test Costs:
- Duolingo: Approximately INR 5,484 per test
- IELTS and TOEFL: Substantially more expensive due to human examiners and physical testing centers
Test Duration:
- Duolingo: 1 hour total (covers all four skills in this timeframe)
- IELTS: Approximately 3 hours
- TOEFL: Length varies by test type
Results Timeline:
- Duolingo: Maximum 2 days (sometimes just hours)
- IELTS: Up to 13 days for paper-based results
- TOEFL: Around 6 days
Testing Frequency:
- IELTS Paper-based: 48 times yearly
- IELTS Computer-delivered: Available 7 days a week, 3 times daily
- Duolingo: No reservation required, can be taken anytime
- TOEFL: Conducted about 50 times annually (4-5 times monthly)
Retake Policies:
- Duolingo: Allows up to 3 attempts within a 30-day period
- IELTS: Can retake immediately after receiving your score
- TOEFL: Requires waiting 12 days after a previous test date
Given these constraints, Duolingo clearly offers advantages if you're under tight time pressure or budget limitations. Its quick results make it particularly beneficial when application deadlines loom. Nevertheless, verify whether your target institutions accept Duolingo scores before proceeding, as established tests like IELTS and TOEFL still maintain broader recognition.
Learning Style and Test-Taking Strengths
Your personal learning preferences and test-taking abilities should factor significantly into your decision:
For Visual Learners: Tests with strong visual components or computer-based formats might prove more comfortable. Duolingo incorporates various visual elements throughout its assessment.
For Conversational Learners: IELTS offers a face-to-face speaking component with a human examiner, potentially benefiting those who communicate better in interactive settings rather than speaking to a computer as required by TOEFL and Duolingo.
For Adaptive Learners: Duolingo's adaptive testing model adjusts question difficulty based on your performance. This approach can effectively gage your abilities with fewer questions.
For Traditional Test-Takers: IELTS maintains a paper-based option alongside its computer-delivered format, offering flexibility for those less comfortable with digital interfaces.
Understanding your test-taking strengths helps identify which exam format might yield your best performance. Various online resources can help determine your learning style, including:
- The British Council offers a learning-style quiz specifically for English learners
- Educational institutions provide self-assessments to identify your optimal learning approach
- The VARK questionnaire assesses whether you learn best through visual, auditory, reading/writing, or kinesthetic methods
Fundamentally, the test format that aligns with your natural learning preferences will likely produce your highest scores. For instance, if you perform better in interactive conversations than in recorded monologs, IELTS might offer advantages over TOEFL or Duolingo for the speaking section.
Immigration vs. Academic Purposes
Your intended use for the English proficiency test—whether for academic admission or immigration purposes—significantly impacts which test you should select:
For Academic Purposes:
- All three tests (IELTS Academic, TOEFL, and Duolingo) are designed to assess language skills needed in university settings
- Cambridge English Qualifications are accepted by over 25,000 organizations across 130 countries, including prestigious institutions like Stanford University, University of Sydney, and King's College London
- These qualifications demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively in academic environments
For Immigration Purposes:
- IELTS General Training is typically preferred for migration purposes
- For Australia, certain skills assessment bodies like the Australian Nursing & Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC), CPA Australia, and Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) specifically require IELTS Academic scores
- When moving to the UK, you must take the IELTS for UKVI test, which is approved by the UK Home Office for study, work, or migration
Importantly, the UK offers three UKVI test options:
- Academic for UKVI: For study or professional registration
- General Training for UKVI: For work, migration, or vocational training
- Life Skills for UKVI: For proving English speaking and listening skills at specific Common European Framework levels
Online English tests (not taken at official test centers) generally aren't suitable for immigration purposes. Verify this crucial detail with immigration authorities before selecting a test if your primary goal is migration rather than education.
Test selection should ultimately be guided by its intended purpose. As noted by immigration experts, "Choosing the right English proficiency exam depends on your specific needs, the requirements of the destination you're targeting as well as your personal preferences".
Additionally, the question "IELTS vs TOEFL which is easy" depends largely on your background. If you're more familiar with American English, TOEFL might feel more accessible. Conversely, if you've studied British English or have experience with various English accents, IELTS could prove more straightforward.
The perfect test balances multiple factors: destination requirements, personal constraints, learning preferences, and intended purpose. By carefully weighing these considerations against the specific characteristics of each exam, you'll identify the option most likely to showcase your English proficiency effectively while meeting your practical needs.
Comparison Table For You:
| Feature | IELTS | TOEFL | Duolingo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test Duration | 2 hours 45 minutes | ~2 hours | 45-60 minutes |
| Cost | INR 18,000 | INR 16,900 | INR 5,484 (~$65) |
| Reading Section | 60 minutes, 40 questions | 35-72 minutes, 30-40 questions | Adaptive format |
| Listening Section | 30 minutes | 36-90 minutes | Adaptive format |
| Writing Section | 60 minutes, 2 tasks | 29-50 minutes, 2 tasks | Included in adaptive format |
| Speaking Section | 11-14 minutes (face-to-face) | 16-20 minutes (computer-recorded) | Included in adaptive format |
| Scoring System | Band scale 1-9 | 0-120 (0-30 per section) | 10-160 scale |
| Results Timeline | 3-5 days (computer), up to 13 days (paper) | 4-6 days | Within 2 days |
| Global Recognition | 12,000+ institutions in 140+ countries | 11,000+ institutions in 160+ countries | 5,500+ programs worldwide |
| Retake Policy | Can retake immediately after results | Must wait 12 days | Up to 3 attempts in 30 days |
| Test Frequency | 48 times yearly (paper), Daily availability (computer) | ~50 times annually | On-demand, anytime |
| Primary Recognition | UK, Australia, Canada | USA | Growing acceptance worldwide |
| Score Validity | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years |
Conclusion
Choosing between IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo requires careful consideration of your specific needs and circumstances. Each test offers distinct advantages - IELTS stands out with its face-to-face speaking component and strong recognition in the UK, Australia, and Canada. TOEFL maintains its position as the preferred choice for US institutions, while Duolingo emerges as a convenient, affordable alternative with growing acceptance worldwide.
Your ideal test depends on several key factors. Your target destination plays a crucial role, as certain countries and institutions favor specific tests. Time constraints and budget considerations might make Duolingo's quick results and lower cost appealing. Additionally, your learning style affects your potential performance - IELTS suits those who excel in interactive conversations, while TOEFL and Duolingo cater to students comfortable with computer-based assessments.
The best choice ultimately aligns with your personal circumstances. Though all three tests measure English proficiency, their different formats, costs, and recognition patterns create unique paths to achieving your academic or professional goals. Consider your destination requirements, timeline, budget, and learning preferences to select the test that offers you the highest chance of success.
FAQs
Q1. Which English proficiency test is best for me: IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo?
The best test depends on your specific situation. Consider factors like your target country/institution, budget, timeline, and learning style. IELTS is preferred in the UK and Australia, TOEFL in the US, while Duolingo offers a faster, cheaper alternative with growing acceptance worldwide.
Q2. How do the costs and durations of these tests compare?
Duolingo is the most affordable at around INR 5,484 and takes about an hour. IELTS costs approximately INR 18,000 and lasts 2 hours 45 minutes. TOEFL is priced at about INR 16,900 and takes around 2 hours to complete.
Q3. How quickly can I get my test results?
Duolingo provides results within 2 days, sometimes in just hours. TOEFL results are typically available in 4-6 days. IELTS results take 3-5 days for computer-based tests and up to 13 days for paper-based tests.
Q4. Are these tests equally recognized by universities worldwide?
Recognition varies. IELTS is accepted by over 12,000 institutions in 140+ countries, TOEFL by 11,000+ in 160+ countries. Duolingo, while newer, is now recognized by over 5,500 programs globally and its acceptance is rapidly growing.
Q5. How do the test formats differ?
IELTS includes a face-to-face speaking component and offers both paper and computer-based options. TOEFL is primarily computer-based with recorded speaking responses. Duolingo is fully online and uses adaptive testing technology to adjust question difficulty based on your performance.