Tips and Tricks to Prepare for the Duolingo English Test

The Duolingo English Test (DET), is a modern English proficiency assessment for today’s international students and institutions. Most universities require a score of 100 and above on the DET to unlock a host of academic and career opportunities. Over 4200 schools and universities accept the test, with new institutions joining the list every passing day. Infact, according to Jennifer Dewar, Senior Director of Strategic Engagement for DET, the majority of DET test-takers are people who hope to get into graduate programmes in more than 76 countries to study Business, Computer Science, Math, and Engineering, among others. Taking any test might give you the jitters, but you can reduce the stress by following these 5 tips.

1. Acquaint yourself with the format:

Prior to taking the Duolingo English Test (DET), it is important to familiarize yourself with the test format. The DET Syllabus consists of four sections: reading, listening, writing, and speaking, each of which is timed and monitored. The questions posed in the test vary in nature, ranging from speaking about a specific topic for 90 seconds to writing about a given picture.

2. Practice reading, writing, listening and speaking in English:

DET evaluates your proficiency in all four language skills, therefore, it is essential to dedicate a good amount of time practicing these skills in your day to day life. Reading English literature and making a habit of reading English news on a daily basis can help you improve your grasp of the language. Similarly, listening to podcasts, music, movies, and other forms of media can aid in building up your spoken language skills. You can even practice using the Duolingo language app!

3. Take mock tests:

Taking DET practice tests or mock exams is an effective way to assess your progress and identify areas that require further attention. The Duolingo English Test website offers a free-of-cost practice test that you can take an unlimited number of times. It is shorter than the actual exam, standing at 30 minutes, but will provide you a glimpse of the test's content and question types and also give you an estimated score soon after.

4. Develop your Interactive Listening skills:

With the introduction of the new ‘Interactive Listening’ section in the test this year, it has become a critical component of the Duolingo English Test. This section assesses how effectively you can comprehend social etiquettes and situations in English and respond appropriately, by asking the test-taker to read the situation and picking the best option that’ll add to the conversation. Candidates can go through DET Preparation Books, Podcast, or watch english movies and web series to develop their skills.

5. Prepare your environment:

Prior to taking the test, it is advisable to prepare for DET environment accordingly. Ensure that you take the test at a location and time that suits you best, which need not be your home, provided that you can ensure stable internet connection, quiet surroundings, and privacy. Additionally, keep your actual, physical ID ready while taking the test as during the setup process, you will be required to submit a photo of it.

Being prepared always helps clear one’s mind, and as a result reduces some of the anxiety and stress prior to taking a test or exam. So, don't hesitate to start preparing for the test today and make the DET part of your study abroad journey. Good luck!