What is the Duolingo English Test?

The Duolingo English Test is a standardized test designed to assess your level of English Language proficiency for pursuing higher education in an English-speaking country. The test is becoming a top choice for students due to its faster delivery of results within 2 days and its duration of just one hour. The Duolingo English Test comprises 3 sections - Introduction and onboarding, Adaptive test, and the writing and speaking samples. You can take the test from anywhere around the world, all you need is a laptop and a stable internet connection.

Click here to register for Duolingo English Test

How does the DET keep its digital exams accurate and fair?

As part of its digital-first approach to test development, the DET has combined human expertise with the power of AI for a comprehensive approach to exam supervision. Every single test session is recorded via the computer, microphone, keyboard, and mouse which serves as evidence of whether any rules are broken or not. It is then reviewed by multiple rounds of trained professionals to be validated. Only then does a test taker receive a certified score. 

How do the Duolingo English Test proctors?

Once you start the test, the testing software will start recording your screen. It has various detection protocols that will detect the moment you try to leave the screen or open a new window. Proctors use AI tools to check each part of the test for more than 80 different behaviors. These behaviors are grouped into different categories based on how serious they are. The first category they check is ID verification issues, like your name, birthday, ID photo, and ID expiration date.

The test proctors carefully check the test for any cheating. They watch out for things like background noise or alerts from your device, which could mean you're doing something wrong. Major rule breaks include wearing smartwatches or headphones or looking away from the screen for too long. Once you submit your test, a proctor checks everything again. But if you break any rules, your test score will be canceled right away. Depending on how serious the violation is, you might not be allowed to take the test ever again. However, if you break a rule unintentionally, you can appeal to retake the test up to three times for free.

Commonly Broken Rules on the DET:

After you submit the test, the proctor verifies and then certifies or decertifies your test. You might not get a DET certification for one of the following reasons:

Rules Broken

• The test taker wore headphones
• The test taker’s ears were covered
• The room is too dark
• The room is not private
• The room is not quiet
• The test taker looks away from the screen repeatedly or for an extended time.
• There is someone else speaking with the test taker.
• The test taker does not speak enough during the open-ended speaking section (must speak for at least 30 seconds as instructed).

Malicious Behavior

• The test taker’s ID has been tampered with by a false ID verification.
• The test taker has already completed two valid tests in the past 30 days on another account.
• The test taker is lip-syncing.
• The test taker is using an external device or tool.
• The test taker is writing on paper / using a pen or pencil.
• The test taker is receiving assistance from another person.
• The test taker took a screenshot of the test screen.

What Happens If Rules are Broken on the DET?

If you happen to break any rules associated with the DET, the test has the right to not certify your results or cancel previously certified ones without offering a refund. However, there's a chance to appeal if you meet certain criteria. You'll find an "Appeal This Result" button next to your invalidated result on the DET homepage. Depending on the seriousness of the violation, like cheating, you might be banned from retaking the DET.

As a test taker, it should be your responsibility to maintain the credibility and integrity of the test score. By understanding the implications of cheating and adhering to ethical practices, you can ensure fairness in this standardized testing method.

Checking out instructional videos will help get a clear understanding of the rules. In any situation, the DET team is consistently available to offer support and assistance throughout your journey.