How many universities accept the Duolingo English Test?

The number has been growing rapidly and figures vary by source and date -- recent reports through 2026 have cited figures ranging from roughly 4,500 to over 6,000 institutions worldwide, including the large majority of top-ranked US universities and a growing number in the UK, Canada, and Australia. Always verify directly with your specific target university, since not all institutions accept it equally, and acceptance policies vary by country and programme level.

How does DET compare in cost and speed to IELTS/TOEFL?

DET costs roughly $65-70 (compared to $180-250 for IELTS/TOEFL), can be taken entirely from home with no travel to a test centre, and delivers results within 48 hours -- versus days to weeks for traditional in-person exams.

Duolingo English Test 2026 — Dates, Eligibility, Syllabus & Career Guide

Strategic Fit

The Decision Matrix

What It Is

An online, on-demand, AI-adaptive English proficiency test increasingly accepted as an alternative to IELTS and TOEFL for university admissions, work, and migration purposes -- notable for its speed, low cost, and complete flexibility on timing.

Ideal Candidates

No formal eligibility criteria -- open to anyone needing to demonstrate English proficiency for university admission, work, or migration purposes

Core Advantage

Pivot Guideline

Difficulty Rating

Moderate

Hard

Toughest

Mentors Cabin

Duolingo English Test (DET) (Duolingo English Test)

The Decision Matrix

Honest Advice & Guidance

Avoid This Path If

Common Mistakes

Myths vs Reality Checks

Duolingo English Test (DET) (Duolingo English Test)

The Decision Matrix

Honest Advice & Guidance

Avoid This Path If

Common Mistakes

Myths vs Reality Checks