With the increasing number of Indian students gearing up to receive higher education in foreign countries, the Duolingo English Test (DET) is here to help achieve those dreams. As a fast, convenient, and affordable digital-first, high stakes English proficiency test, the DET is accepted by over 4200 schools and universities around the globe with new institutions joining the list every day. Most universities require a score of 100 or higher on the DET to access a wide range of academic and professional options. But mastering the DET doesn’t have to be a daunting task - luckily, you can prepare for this test by following these 5 simple tips:
- Get familiar with the format
The very first tip before you attempt the DET is to become comfortable with the test format. Watching the video walkthrough, which is accessible on the Duolingo English Test website or YouTube channel, is one of the best ways to learn about the test format. The total test duration is 1 hour and it is divided into two sections. The first one is the Adaptive Section and the second is the Speaking and Writing Section. The former lasts 45 minutes, whereas the latter takes 10 minutes to complete. The DET is also computer adaptive, hence the difficulty level of the test questions changes depending on how each test-taker performs.
- Strengthen your English language skills
Allocating a considerable amount of time and energy to improve your Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking skills in English will likely yield positive results while taking the Duolingo English Test. Reading news articles, books, online content or keeping a journal can help strengthen your vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension skills. Listen to English-language media and use language-learning apps such as the Duolingo app to learn better. Remember, consistency is key when it comes to improving your language skills!
- Practice is key
Befriend the mock tests well in advance before the D-day to gauge your progress and pinpoint areas that need more attention. The Duolingo English Test website offers a free-of-cost practice test that you can take as often as you need. While it is only 30 minutes long, it will provide you a taste of the test's content and question styles as well as an immediate estimate of your score.
- Prepare your environment well in advance
Since you can choose when and where you take the DET, it is recommended to prepare your environment accordingly. Make sure to take the test in a comfortable environment. It does not have to be your home if you can ensure a reliable internet connection, peaceful surroundings, and privacy. Additionally, have your real, physical ID in hand while taking the test to upload a photo of it as part of the setup procedure. Above all, stay calm and give your best!
- Lastly, don’t ignore the rules!
Since you can take the Duolingo English test from your home remotely, the Duolingo English Test requires you to follow the rules it has set in place. You must be alone in the room while taking the test and nobody should be talking to you during the test. Also, you can't navigate from the browser during the test. Apart from this, there are other sets of rules that you need to follow while taking the exam.
No exam is impossible to crack. All you need to do is to prepare well and stress less prior to your final day. So, don’t hesitate to start your preparation right away and make the DET a huge success. We wish you all the best!