How to Choose Between Duolingo and PTE for Language Proficiency

Choosing Between Duolingo and PTE for a Proficiency Test

Selecting an appropriate language test can be a crucial determination for anyone planning to study or settle in another country. As there are several tests to choose from, it makes sense to understand the pros and cons of receiving a certain test. Two of them are the most widely accepted: The Duolingo English Test and the Pearson Test of English (PTE). Here is your ultimate Duolingo or PTE guide – what each test format entails, the benefits of each, and which is more suited for you. 

Understanding Duolingo and PTE

Duolingo English Test

The DEP stands for Duolingo English Proficiency Test and is a newer, more convenient language proficiency test. Here are some key points:

Test Format: It’s an online test with no requirement of going to a test center and can be attempted from home. 
Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
Cost: Around $49.
Results: Results are available within 48 hours.
Acceptance: Recognized by a number of universities in many countries, especially in the USA. 

Pearson Test of English (PTE)

The PTE is another of the most common tests of English language proficiency. Key features include:

Test Format: Computerised test offered at a specified testing facility. 
Duration: Approximately 3 hours.
Cost: Varies by location but generally around $200-$250.
Results: Results are typically available within 2-5 days.
Acceptance: Accepted across the globe, especially at universities and government organizations 

Key Differences Between Duolingo and PTE

Test Format and Structure

Duolingo: One advantage of the Duolingo test is that it is much shorter and can be taken at home which will be more convenient for a number of students. It contains adaptive testing because the difficulty level alters depending on how the candidate performs. 

PTE: The PTE is a longer test and it has to be attended at a Pearson test center. It includes a variety of question types and is divided into three main sections: It comprises of Speaking and Writing, Reading, and Listening. 

Cost

Duolingo: At around $49, the Duolingo test is significantly cheaper than the PTE.
PTE: The PTE is more expensive, with costs typically ranging from $200-$250.

Acceptance

Duolingo: Although the test is gaining popularity and more institutions are admitting their students based on the Duolingo test scores, it is wise to confirm that your target institutions accept this test. 
PTE: PTE is accepted by most universities, many professional bodies, and various governments across the globe making it useful in many situations. 

Advantages of Duolingo

Convenience: The main opportunity is that the test can be taken at home which will be helpful if traveling is limited due to some circumstances. 
Cost-Effective: At $49, it's an affordable option for many students.
Quick Results: Results are available within 48 hours, allowing for faster application processes.

Advantages of PTE

Wider Acceptance: The PTE is accepted by more institutions and organizations across the worldwide. 
Detailed Feedback: The test provides a comprehensive assessment of your English skills, which can be useful for personal improvement.
Integrated Skills Testing: The PTE tests integrated skills, such as speaking and writing together, which can provide a more holistic evaluation of your English proficiency.

How to Decide Between Duolingo and PTE

Consider Your Goals

Academic Goals: If you are applying to universities, ensure you know the specifications of the universities that you wish to apply to. It may only accept one test over the other. 
Professional Goals: If you are in need of a language proficiency test for visa or immigration reasons, then, verify which test is accepted by the relevant authorities.

Assess Your Strengths and Weaknesses

Test Environment: If the candidate would like to have a cozy ambiance during the test, then the at home test is suitable for the Duolingo test. 
Test Length: If you find longer tests challenging, the shorter duration of the Duolingo test could be a better fit.

Budget

Cost Considerations: If budget is a significant factor, Duolingo's lower cost can make it an attractive option.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Duolingo English Test and the Pearson Test of English (PTE) hinges on your specific goals, budget, and personal preferences. Duolingo offers a convenient, cost-effective, and quick option suitable for many students, especially if accepted by your target institutions. On the other hand, PTE provides a more comprehensive and widely accepted assessment, particularly advantageous for academic and professional purposes. Carefully evaluate your needs, the acceptance criteria of your desired institutions, and your comfort with test formats to make an informed decision that aligns with your objectives.

For more assistance, please visit our study abroad consultancy services and explore our wide range of offerings for students interested in studying in the USA, studying in the UK, studying in Canada, studying in Australia, studying in Ireland, and many other countries.

Commonly Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Which test is easier, Duolingo or PTE?
Ans: Its difficulty can be relative and can refer to your level of familiarity with the particular type of test and your ability to master it. For some students, the flexible approach of Duolingo could seem less pressurizing than for others the comprehensive structure of the PTE. 

Q2: How soon can I get my results for Duolingo and PTE?
Ans:: Duolingo provides results within 48 hours, while PTE results are typically available within 2-5 days.

Q3: Is the Duolingo test accepted by all universities?
Ans: Despite the growing popularity of the tests such as Duolingo, especially in the United States, it's crucial to consult your given institutions to confirm that they acknowledge the test. 

Q4: Can I take the PTE at home?
Ans: However, the PTE has to be taken at an approved center or any of the Pearson VUE testing facilities. 

Q5: Which test is more cost-effective?
Ans: Duolingo is cheaper being priced at $49 in contrast to PTE which ranges from 200-250$. 

Q6: Can I use Duolingo or PTE for immigration purposes?
Ans: This depends on the policies of the country in which you wish to work as an expatriate in. It is recommended to check this information with the respective professional bodies. 

Q7: How do the test formats differ?
Ans: This is an online test like the Duolingo which can be taken from home and its main purpose is to assess the learners’ level in English comprehensively. PTE is an overall test taken at a test center with focal points on integrated skills. 

Q8: How long is each test?
Ans: For Duolingo, it consumes approximately one hour while the PTE requires approximately three hours. 

Q9: Are there any prerequisites for taking these tests?
Ans: Both tests presuppose an identification check, more specifically, the presentation of a valid identification card. To learn by Duolingo, you need a quiet environment and a computer on which there is a built-in camera. For PTE, you have to make an appointment for the center where you would wish to write the test.  

Q10: Can I retake the tests if I'm not satisfied with my scores?
Ans: Yes, both Duolingo and PTE provide options for the test taker to retake the exam in case of a bad score. However, the retake policies for each test as well as the fees should be a thing to consider.  

Therefore, to sum it up, the choice between Duolingo and PTE will persistently lie in individual interests, requirements and preferences. Consider the benefits of the two tests and the criteria that come with both of them to identify what is most helpful and beneficial to achieve your objectives.