Important Rules for the DET: What Every Test Taker Must Know to Succeed

Rules are a fundamental aspect of any exam, serving a crucial purpose in maintaining fairness, integrity, and validity. By adhering to a set of rules, students create a level playing field for all participants, ensuring equal opportunities for everyone to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. Like other tests, the Duolingo English Test also has a certain set of rules to ensure a fair and standardised assessment of English language proficiency. The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a globally recognized English proficiency test tailored to suit your needs. It offers convenience, speed, affordability, and reliability, making it the preferred choice for language learners worldwide. The test is brought to you by Duolingo, the most popular way to learn a language online.

Rules to Keep in Mind for DET

Since you can take the DET at the convenience of your own home, rather than at a testing centre, this approach is accompanied by specific guidelines aimed to ensure the fairness and integrity of each test session. Unfortunately, some test takers may not receive their results upon their initial attempt due to unintentional breaches of these rules. But, no need to worry. Below is a DET set of rules that aspiring candidates should familiarise themselves with before taking the DET.

1. Maintain your focus on the screen and keep your eyes directed towards it. Avoid frequent distractions or looking around the room.
2. Under no circumstances should you navigate away from the test window on the app.
3. Keep your camera and microphone enabled throughout the test.
4. Make sure you are in a well-lit and quiet room where you are alone throughout the entire test. No one should enter or be present in the room with you.
5. Ensure that your face is clearly visible and not obstructed.
6. Your ears should be visible and not covered. The use of headphones or earphones is prohibited.
7. Avoid using someone else's name or identification to attempt the test, and ensure that the ID card is clearly readable.
8. Outside materials, including mobile devices, notes, or textbooks, are not allowed.
9. Do not use writing utensils or paper for note-taking, and avoid taking any notes during the test.
10. Do not utilise a second monitor during the test.

Adhering to these rules while taking the DET will ensure a valid test score and enhance your prospects of getting into your preferred DET scores for international universities.

Consequences of Breaking the Rules on the DET

DET prioritises reliable and secure DET test results for both test takers and institutions. It implements stringent protocols and measures throughout the entire testing process. From test administration to result reporting, every step is carefully designed to maintain the integrity and confidentiality of the assessments. It not only employs advanced technologies but also follows industry best practices to safeguard the test-taking experience and the validity of the results.

However, in the worst-case scenario, if you break any rules while taking the Duolingo English Test, Duolingo has the authority to not certify your test results or invalidate previously certified results, without offering a refund. However, there is a possibility of appealing your invalidated results under certain conditions. If you meet the requirements for an appeal, you will find an “Appeal This Result” button on the Duolingo English Test homepage next to your invalidated result. If the violation, such as cheating, is deemed severe, you may be permanently barred from taking the Duolingo English Test again.

If you face any obstacle, the DET team is right here to help you! Additionally, you can find instructional videos on YouTube that provide a better understanding of the rules. To get a feel for the test, you can also try the practice test for free.