Duolingo Test Validity: Everything You Need to Know About DET Validity

Overview of DET

DET or Duolingo English Test is an English Language Proficiency test provided by the popular language learning app, “Duolingo”. It is a standardized test, which is designed to assess test takers’ English writing, listening, speaking, and reading skills.

What makes DET different from other popular proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL is that it is a computer-adaptive test. Meaning it adjusts the difficulty of the questions based on test takers' performance. In addition to this, the test is comparatively more affordable, and the results are certified within 48 hours.

Let’s take a look at the Duolingo Test Validity so that you can plan your test-taking strategically.

What Is Duolingo Test Validity?

The validity of the Duolingo test lasts for two years from the date the test was taken. After this period of two years, your scores will be considered expired, and you will not be able to use them for admission or other official purposes.

Once your Duolingo Test Validity expires, you will have to take the test again to use it for admission or official purposes. However, you will still be able to check your DET scores on your account.

When Does the Duolingo Test Validity Start?

The Duolingo result validity starts from the day the test was taken and will last for two years. For example, if you take the test on July 5, 2025, your scores will be valid till July 5, 2027. After that, they will be considered expired.

How to Check Duolingo Validity

To check or verify your Duolingo score validity you can follow the steps below:

1. Start by going to the official Duolingo English Test website.
2. Log in to your account.
3. Go to the “My Tests” section to see your test history.
4. In the test history, you will be able to check and share your DET certificate if it is still valid. If it is not valid, the certificate will be marked as such.
5. In addition to this, when you share your results with the institute or other organisations, they can also verify if your certificate is valid, or not through the Duolingo English Test website.

Also, note that you can still view your Duolingo English test validity on your account even after it expires. You just won’t be able to share them. In addition to this, it is also a good practice to check the requirements of the institution you are applying to. Usually, some institution has additional criteria for English proficiency.

What is the Importance of Duolingo Score Validity?

Okay, now that we understand the Duolingo validity, let us know its importance. And why do they only last two years? Why can’t you just use them forever, as you have already demonstrated your English proficiency? Below are a few reasons why the validity of Duolingo scores is important:

1. Current Proficiency: The first reason is that language skills are not static and are subject to change. The validity of the Duolingo score shows that your current language speaking, writing, listening, and reading skills are reflected not the past ones.
2. Institution Reliability: The Duolingo result validity also helps employers and institutions to assess the candidate's current English language proficiency. This helps them understand if the candidate will be able to succeed in their programs or roles.
3. Avoiding Misrepresentation: Another major reason why Duolingo Test Validity is so important is that it helps in avoiding misinterpretation. Expired scores can mislead institutes, which can lead to unsustainable placements and employment opportunities.

Why is Duolingo Score Valid for a Specific Time?

The main reason why Duolingo scores are only valid for a specific time is that it ensures that the candidate's current language skills are reflected. As we mentioned above, language skills, like any other skills are subject to change over time. Institutions, employers, Duolingo accepted countries, and immigration authorities need to be confident in the test taker's ability.

Below are a few more reasons why these scores are only valid for a specific time:

1. Reflecting Current Proficiency: The first, foremost, and the obvious one is that it ensures your current language skills are reflected. Language skills can decline over time, especially if you do not use them regularly. This is why planning your Duolingo Exam registration close to your application deadlines is crucial.
2. High-Stakes Decisions: Another reason is that DET is used to make significant decisions like college admission, which can have a major impact on the test taker.
3. Test Development and Updates: To keep up with the pace of evolving language and the kind of context it is being used in recent times, language tests like DET need to be updated regularly. Since these tests go through annual changes, having a validity time ensures that the test takers are being assessed on the most recent one.
4. Maintaining Score Comparability: Similarly, the tests are being changed regularly. And this requires score comparability, which will help in making sure that the test results from different versions have the same meaning.

What Happens If Duolingo Scores Expire?

Lastly, you might be wondering about what might happen if the Duolingo score validity expires. Simply, you will not be able to use them for official purposes or share them with institutions.

1. Reapplication Requirements: After your score expires, you will have to retake the exam, which can be time-consuming and might require additional costs.
2. Delays in Processing: Having an expired Duolingo English test validity can also lead to delayed application processing. This can potentially lead to increased visa or admission time.
3. Updated Standards: Since the authority updates its test standards regularly, you will not be able to show your current expectations with an expired score report.

Can You Extend the Validity of Duolingo Scores?

No, you cannot extend Duolingo Test Validity, mainly because most of the English language proficiency tests like Duolingo are designed with a validity period to show the dynamic and complex nature of Language proficiency.

So make sure that when you take the DET, you consider the timing of your applications to avoid score expiration.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the Duolingo Test Validity can help you plan when to take the test and when to send scores to institutions and potentially avoid delays in the application process. Since DET scores are only valid for two years, it’s important to align your test date with application deadlines to avoid retaking the exam. And if you need any help with DET, be it the Duolingo English Test fee or simply preparing for the test itself. You can connect with our Experts at Gradding.com for tailored help anytime you need!

FAQs

How Long is the Duolingo Test Valid for?

The Duolingo test is valid for two years from the day the test is taken. After two years, you will not be able to use the Duolingo scores for official purposes and demonstrate your English language proficiency.

Is Duolingo Harder than IELTS?

No, Duolingo is not harder than IELTS. Generally, IELTS is considered harder because it is a more comprehensive and formal test. In addition to this, IELTS is more focused on academic writing and speaking, whereas, Duolingo is known for convenience and an adaptive testing format.

Do Duolingo Scores Expire?

Yes, Duolingo scores expire after two years from the date you take the test. Even though you will still be able to check your scores on the official DET website, your certificate will be marked as expired.

What Happens If My Duolingo Test Is Invalid?

If your Duolingo test is invalid, it means that your test results are not certified and you won’t be able to use them. Generally, if your test is considered invalid, you’ll receive an email from Duolingo DET explaining why it is invalid, and depending on the reason you can take the test again.