The Duolingo English Test is fundamentally different from IELTS, PTE, and OET in one key way: there is no test centre, no fixed test date, and no slot to book in advance. You purchase a test credit, then take the test from your own computer whenever you're ready — within 21 days of purchase.
This makes registration significantly simpler than other exams. But there are specific requirements — particularly around ID and equipment — that Indian test-takers need to get right before they purchase.
Before You Register: Key Things to Confirm
You need a valid Indian passport. This is non-negotiable for Indian candidates. Aadhaar, voter ID, and driving licences are not accepted. The name on your DET account must exactly match the name on your passport.
You need a computer with a front-facing webcam. Tablets, iPads, and mobile phones cannot be used to take the test. The required browser is Google Chrome or Opera. Check that your computer meets the technical requirements before purchasing.
You need a secondary camera (smartphone). Since late 2025, the Duolingo English Test requires a secondary camera — your smartphone — positioned beside your computer throughout the test. Install the DET mobile app on your phone before test day.
You need a quiet, private room. No other person can be present in the room during the test. No earphones. No notes. No additional devices other than the phone used as the secondary camera.
Confirm all of the above before purchasing — there are no refunds once you've bought a test credit.
Step-by-Step Registration
Step 1: Go to englishtest.duolingo.com Click 'Get Started' or 'Sign up'.
Step 2: Create your account Provide your full name (exactly as on passport), email address, date of birth, and create a password. If you already have a Duolingo app account, you can use the same login.
Step 3: Verify your identity You'll need to upload or photograph your passport during the identity verification step. Ensure the image is clear and all details are legible.
Step 4: Choose your test option
| Option | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single test | USD 70 (~₹6,000–6,500) | 21-day window to take the test |
| Two-test bundle | USD 100 (~₹8,800–9,000) | Two separate 21-day credits — useful if you expect to retake |
| Express results add-on | +USD 33 | Results in ~12 hours instead of 48 |
The two-test bundle works out to USD 50 per test — worth considering if you're not fully confident your preparation is at target level.
Step 5: Pay DET accepts international credit/debit cards and, for Indian students, UPI payments — which eliminates the need for an international transaction-enabled card. Payment confirms your purchase and starts your 21-day window.
Step 6: Receive confirmation After payment, you'll receive a confirmation email. The 21-day countdown begins from this point — not from when you take the test.
The 21-Day Window: How It Works
Once purchased, you must complete the test within 21 days. There is no formal rescheduling process — you simply choose when within that 21-day window to sit it. You can take it today, tomorrow, or on day 20 — entirely your choice.
If you don't take the test within 21 days, the credit expires and no refund is issued. There are no extensions and no exceptions.
Practical guidance: don't purchase the test until your preparation is ready and your room setup is confirmed. The 21-day window is flexibility, not a preparation period.
Taking the Test: What to Have Ready
Before sitting down to take the test, confirm the following:
Equipment checklist:
- Computer (not phone/tablet) with Chrome or Opera browser
- Front-facing webcam and microphone working
- Smartphone with DET mobile app installed and charged (or plugged in)
- Stable internet connection
- Quiet room — no other people, no background noise
ID ready:
- Physical passport — you will show it to the webcam during identity verification at the start of the test
Room setup:
- Desk clear of all materials
- Lighting facing you (not behind you)
- No earphones in or on your ears
- Phone positioned horizontally to the side of your computer, showing your screen, keyboard, and upper body
Results
Standard results arrive within 48 hours of completing the test. Express results (paid add-on) arrive in approximately 12 hours.
Results are shared electronically with universities through the DET score portal — free and unlimited. You can send your score to as many institutions as you like at no additional cost.
Scores are valid for 2 years from the test date.
Retakes
You can take the DET up to twice within any 30-day period. Each attempt requires a separate purchase (or use of a bundle credit). There is no restriction on total lifetime attempts.
If a test is flagged or invalidated, contact Duolingo Support within 24 hours. Technical failures on Duolingo's side may qualify for a retest — but connection failures on your end typically do not.
What the DET Cannot Be Used For
The Duolingo English Test is not accepted for:
- UK Student Visa or Skilled Worker Visa (Home Office SELT requirement)
- Australian Student Visa (for most applicants)
- Canadian immigration (IRCC)
- AHPRA healthcare registration
It is widely accepted for university admissions — particularly in the US, Canada (admissions only, not visa), and Ireland. Always confirm acceptance at your specific institution before purchasing.
