Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 30 October 2026
Practice test vs certified test
From Duolingo's practice test page and test structure page.
| Practice test | Certified test | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free with an account | Paid; see the fee guide |
| How often | As many times as you like | Up to 3 purchases in any 30 days |
| Length | About 45 minutes | About 1 hour |
| Question types | Same as the certified test | Full set, including Writing and Speaking samples |
| Adaptive | Yes | Yes |
| Result | Estimated score range | Certified score you can send |
How accurate the estimate is
Duolingo says the practice test's scoring algorithm is closely aligned with the certified test and gives a narrow, accurate estimated score range, and that its pool of questions is large enough to take it many times before seeing repeats (help centre). It presents the estimate as a way to decide whether you are ready for the certified test.
Know your target? Check where you stand
Take a free AI-scored IELTS mock and see your score per skill before you book the real test. Free account, no card.
Take a free mock →Practise before you book: free IELTS mock test, IELTS reading practice, IELTS listening practice and IELTS speaking predictions.
Using your estimate
Compare the range with the score your university asks for. Our Duolingo score chart shows how DET scores line up with IELTS, and the Duolingo to IELTS converter does a single score.
Use the practice run to check your setup too. The certified test needs a Windows or macOS laptop or desktop and a phone for recording your computer, and once bought, a credit lasts 21 days (rules). Question types and timing are in our Duolingo English Test pattern guide. Rules and fees change. Check the test owner's own page before you book or pay. This guide is general information, not official advice from ETS or Duolingo.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Duolingo practice test free?+
Yes. You can take it as many times as you like at no cost once you create an account.
How long is the Duolingo practice test?+
About 45 minutes. The certified test takes about an hour.
Is the Duolingo practice test score accurate?+
Duolingo says its scoring is closely aligned with the certified test and gives a narrow, accurate estimated range.
Can I send my practice test score to a university?+
No. It gives an estimated score range only; universities need a certified result.
Does the practice test repeat questions?+
Duolingo says the question pool is large enough to take it many times before you see repeats.
Keep reading
Related
- Duolingo English Test pattern
- Duolingo score chart
- Duolingo to IELTS converter
- Duolingo test credit expiry
- All 3112 guides
Guide updated on 30 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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