Duolingo English Test Syllabus 2024

The online 1-hour Duolingo English Test is divided into three distinct sections: the Introduction, the Computer Adaptive Test, and the Video Writing and Speaking Sample. Here’s a detailed overview of each part of the syllabus:

Introduction

The 5-minute Introduction familiarizes test takers with the rules and requirements of the exam. To take the Duolingo English Test, candidates must have a valid government ID for registration and ensure they meet the technical requirements. This includes having a working computer or laptop, a reliable internet connection, a front-facing camera, a microphone, speakers, and a well-lit room. Strict adherence to the rules is required, as failure to comply may result in test cancellation, invalidation of scores, or even a permanent ban from the Duolingo English Test.

Adaptive Test (Graded)

This section is a key component of the Duolingo English Test, designed to assess the candidate’s English proficiency through a variety of questions. Over 45 minutes, the test evaluates English skills with short questions, and the difficulty level of these questions adjusts based on the candidate’s responses.

Video Writing and Speaking Sample (Ungraded)

This 10-minute section features open-ended prompts and is ungraded. Candidates receive two prompts but are required to answer only one.

• You have 30 seconds to select your prompt.
• You will have 1-3 minutes to complete the video-speaking sample.
• You are given 3-5 minutes for the writing sample.
• Test takers can review their video and writing samples before submission, and these samples are sent to institutions along with the test scores.

Duolingo Adaptive Test Syllabus

The Duolingo Adaptive Test lasts for 45 minutes and evaluates a candidate’s English language skills through various question types. The questions are presented randomly, and their difficulty adjusts based on your performance. There is no fixed number of questions; the test ends once the grading engine determines that enough data has been collected.

Below is a summary of the question types, the skills they assess, and the time limits for each: