Parameter |
Duolingo English Test |
PTE (Pearson Test of English) |
Conducting Body |
Duolingo Inc. is the name behind this online platform for learning languages. It manages the same. |
The PTE is conducted by the British multinational education and publishing conglomerate, Pearson. |
Mode of Examination |
The Duolingo examination takes place online with a mobile device or computer. It is an adaptive examination which evaluates reading, listening, writing, and speaking abilities in a single test with questions tailored as per the proficiency level of the candidate. |
The PTE is an offline examination held at Pearson authorized centers worldwide. The assessment contains short-answer and essay questions, along with multiple-choice questions. |
Purpose |
Duolingo helps aspirants enhance their proficiency levels in a more accessible and engaging manner. The platform offers several courses along with interactive exercises and more. Candidates can do them at their own pace. |
PTE has the primary purpose of evaluating the English language proficiency levels of non-native speakers within the academic context. This is done through testing vocabulary, grammar, reading, writing and pronunciation. |
Format |
The DET is an online assessment tool that measures candidates’ vocabulary, grammar, reading comprehension and pronunciation through MCQs. |
The PTE Academic is a test that is computer-based and evaluates the writing, listening, speaking, and reading skills of aspirants, based on fluency and accuracy. |
Structure |
The Duolingo examination comprises the following: a. Adaptive Section- MCQs that adjust level of difficulty based on the candidate’s abilities. Topics like reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary are covered. b. Video Interview- This has candidates recording a short response to prompt questions on video. |
The PTE has two sections: a. Academic- This evaluates the English language skills of aspirants for university/college programs. b. General- This is used to assess aspirants for purposes like immigration, visas, and jobs. The test has three sections: 1. Listening- This evaluates the ability to understand spoken English with questions on audio recordings, lectures, and conversations. 2. Reading- This section evaluates the ability of the candidate to understand written English with questions on short texts, passages, and summaries. 3. Speaking & Writing- This section assesses the ability to speak and also write English, with questions on writing an essay, summarizing spoken text, and speaking aloud. |
Duration |
The test requires just 30-45 minutes for completion |
The PTE requires 3 hours for completion (approx.) |
Scoring Pattern |
Duolingo scores are given between 0-160 points, with higher scores indicating higher proficiency. The scores have four categories, namely Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, and Expert |
The PTE scores are from 10 to 90. The score is based on the fluency and accuracy of language usage and abilities to apply the same in real-world scenarios. |
Fees |
Duolingo has a free version of the test, although the official DET Pro costs $49. |
The PTE Academic and PTE General tests cost approximately $198 and $228, respectively. |
Eligibility Requirements |
Duolingo does not have any particular eligibility criteria |
PTE requires candidates to adhere to specific eligibility criteria. They should have valid passports and be 18 years of age at least. |
Difficulty Levels |
Duolingo is perceived to be easier with its MCQ format and emphasis on grammar and vocabulary |
PTE is perceived to be more difficult with its broader scope of testing. |
Result Declaration |
Duolingo results are declared within 24 hours of taking the test. The results are provided online and may be printed too |
PTE results are declared within 5 business days of the examination and should be downloaded from the Pearson site. |