Introduction: IELTS vs Duolingo

This is the question which always takes shape when Indian students begin to study abroad, and it is What is the English test I need to take? As universities worldwide require evidence of language proficiency, the decision on which to use, be it IELTS vs Duolingo or even TOEFL, becomes one of the first and most crucial steps in your admission process.

Both exams assess your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, although they vary. The correct option is based on what you want to achieve, what you require in terms of score, money, and what you would like to test. Although IELTS is the most established exam, TOEFL is academically credible, and Duolingo is rapidly becoming a modern and cost-effective option to consider.

The final English test comparison of IELTS vs Duolingo vs. TOEFL is the test used by students seeking admission to a foreign university. IELTS is more suitable for visa and PR applications, while TOEFL is used in academic programs. Duolingo is used for fast and affordable online testing. The most suitable exam will be determined by the requirement to score well in university and the country of destination.

This is the comprehensive guide to it all: how forms are administered, scoring, and acceptance, as well as benefits, difficulties, and how Gateway International assists you in selecting the most suitable test to achieve your study abroad dream in 2025.

IELTS vs Duolingo: The Global and Indian Perspective.

Global Overview

Each year, over 3 million students worldwide take English proficiency tests to secure university placements (ICEF, 2024). These include the IELTS and TOEFL, which have dominated the landscape for decades. However, in recent years, the introduction of the Duolingo English Test (DET) has turned the market around by offering convenience and affordability. Duolingo scores are now accepted by over 4,000 universities worldwide, including some of the world’s top institutions, such as Columbia University and the University of Chicago.

Indian Context

India is currently the second-largest exporter of international students, with over 750,000 Indians studying abroad in 2024 (UNESCO). Tier-2 and Tier-3 city students are visiting Duolingo more frequently, as they prefer this platform because it offers the opportunity to take exams at home and is more cost-effective than IELTS or TOEFL. Nevertheless, IELTS remains the gold standard in processing visas in countries such as Canada, Australia and the UK.

Why It Matters

Making the right decision in the IELTS vs Duolingo argument saves time, money, and stress. This English test comparison will help you understand the distinctions between these tests and assist you in meeting the score requirements with greater confidence, step by step, as you work towards fulfilling your international study objectives.

Comparison of IELTS vs Duolingo and TOEFL

Before determining which test best suits you, we will explore IELTS vs Duolingo and TOEFL.

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

IELTS is one of the most widely recognised exams, conducted by IDP, and is available in over 140 countries. It evaluates listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills in a paper-based or computer-based test. The spoken part is conducted in real life, where an examiner is involved—a huge plus for those students who perform well face-to-face.

• Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes
• Fee: Around ₹17,000
• Results: 3-5 days
• Accepted in: 11,000+ institutions

The IELTS is widely applied at an academic, migration, and professional level, which is why it is the best option for students considering PR in the future.

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

The TOEFL, administered by ETS, is favoured by American universities due to its academic rigour. It is based on integrated tasks to assess reading, listening, speaking, and writing.

• Duration: Around 2 hours
• Fee: Around ₹16,900
• Results: 4-8 days
• Accepted in: 10,000+ universities

Duolingo English Test (DET)

Duolingo has introduced new changes to English testing, featuring a 100% online exam conducted under AI supervision, which can be taken anywhere and at any time.

• Duration: 1 hour
• Fee: About ₹4,800
• Results: 48 hours
• Accepted in: 4,000+ universities

To compare IELTS vs Duolingo in the case of Indian students, affordability and convenience can be cited as the greatest advantages of DET, as they have to travel or spend a lot of time in queues.

Comparison of IELTS vs Duolingo and TOEFL: A Complete English Test

To simplify your choice, this is a side-by-side comparison of IELTS vs Duolingo and TOEFL:

• IELTS vs Duolingo: IELTS is a visa and PR credibility provider; Duolingo is a convenient and fast one.
• TOEFL: Strikes a balance between academic and international.

The TOEFL remains well-considered, even in cases where you are applying primarily to the United States. However, if cost and accessibility are of utmost importance, then Duolingo cannot be defeated. IELTS is the most suitable option for those aiming for migration opportunities.

In any case of the test you choose to take, it is always good to first verify the university requirements for the score; some programs accept only certain exams.

Grading Conditions of Best Study Destinations.

The requirements of IELTS vs Duolingo and TOEFL differ between countries and different universities. Among the broad rules, there are the following:

IELTS and TOEFL are longstanding solutions used to apply for a visa to all English-speaking states, whereas Duolingo is growing fast in North America and Europe.

You may still find it confusing which exam to take, so visit the page of the university you are targeting and see their score requirements. This IELTS vs Duolingo decision is no longer an option for Indian students, as many institutions now include Duolingo on their list of accepted English language proficiency tests, alongside IELTS and TOEFL.

Gateway International offers professional assistance to help decipher these standards, aiming to achieve attainable yet competitive points and increase the chances of admission and scholarship.

What is the Easiest Test for Indian students: IELTS vs Duolingo?

The concept of an easy test is relative to the individual; that is, it depends on the level of comfort, the method of studying, and the conditions.

Students having good conversational English may find IELTS less difficult. The verbal part, involving face-to-face speaking, is personal and offers the opportunity for natural communication. The exam has the appearance of an Indian test-taker, featuring separate reading and writing sections that are similar to school exams.

TOEFL is an academic English test. Its combined activities, including reading a text and subsequently speaking on it, can be demanding for some students, but will make you ready to play in the real classroom.

Duolingo is unique in its ability to develop. It adapts the level of difficulty of questions, making the test short and interactive. Most students find it less stressful, as it can be done at any time at home.

In the case of quick admission and cheaper price, IELTS vs Duolingo favours Duolingo. However, when it comes to the PR or visa consistency, IELTS remains the winner.

At Gateway International, the counsellors apply the diagnostic tests to introduce you to this English test comparison so that you can identify the exam that suits you as per your skills and long-term academic goals.

Difficulties and Advantages of both Tests.

Students need to have a clear idea of what each test provides before making a decision on IELTS vs Duolingo vs. TOEFL, as this will help them predict where it may cause problems. This English test comparison will provide you with a clear picture of both options.

Benefits

IELTS

• Recognised in more than 11,000 universities and is verified by every major visa and immigration organisation.
• Perfect in case students would like to get both study and permanent residence opportunities in foreign countries.
• Provides human engagement during the speaking test, which will assist you in developing real-life communication skills.
• It is available throughout India via flexible formats (paper/computer) and test dates that are widely available.

TOEFL

• Accepted by 10,000 or more international institutions of higher learning, in particular in the U.S. and Canada.
• Academic orientation is good in building listening, reading, and analytical skills at the university level.
• Integrated activities replicate the actual classroom experiences, enhancing academic preparedness.
• Detailed scoring feedback helps in focused learning on retaking.

Duolingo

• Very cheap (approximately ₹4,800) and convenient – may be taken anywhere at any time at home.
• The results within 48 hours, ideal when it comes to urgent university assignments.
• Adaptive AI design is stress-free during exams and adapts to your level of skills.
• Quickly growing acceptance in more than 4,000 universities across the globe.

Challenges

• IELTS – Costly in comparison with other tests; cannot get test slots in smaller towns; needs to travel to test centres.
• TOEFL – Requires a good internet connection and good academic vocabulary; it can become time-consuming when it is the first time taking the test.
• Duolingo – The company is not yet accepted by all visa authorities or PR programs; it is still gaining credibility in applications related to government.

Gateway International helps you carefully consider these advantages and disadvantages, matching them with your university score level, and determining which exam best suits your study intentions.

How Gateway International Can Help You Fulfil the Goals of Your Dreams.

At Gateway International, we don’t simply tell you what to do in a test; we develop a comprehensive plan for your success.

• Profile Assessment: Knowing your academic strengths and proficiency in the English language.
• Test Recommendation: Which test is better: IELTS vs Duolingo, or TOEFL to your preferred universities?
• Preparation Support: Certified Trainers, mock exams, and learning aids.
• University Shortlisting: Graphing your projected scores against universities with your score criteria.
• Application/Visa Advice: The preparation of effective SOPs and the checking of documents.
• Scholarship & Financial Assistance: Assisting you to save with merit and need-based scholarship.
• Pre-Departure Orientation: Cultural, travel and accommodation orientations.

Success Story

I was not able to choose between IELTS vs Duolingo. Gateway reviewed my profile, and I was advised to use Duolingo. After a week of scoring 120, I was offered a position at a U.S. university!

— Priya Sharma, Fall 2024 Intake

When you work with the help of Gateway, you will have a clear understanding, confidence, and professional advice in all stages of the IELTS vs Duolingo decision.

Interactive Quiz: What English Test Matches Your Personality?

Q1. What is your favourite way of taking exams?

1. Face-to-face, over the table, and with an examiner ✅
2. Online, and with a formal academic arrangement.
3. At home, at all times and at the convenience of the customer.

Q2. What is the most important thing to you when selecting a test?

1. Visa and PR recognition
2. Academic reputation ✅
3. Affordability and speed

Q3. How easy is it for you to talk English in front of people?

1. Very confident
2. Somewhat confident
3. Prefer speaking alone ✅

Student Queries & Direct Q&A: IELTS vs Duolingo 

Q1. What is the easiest English test among the Indian students?

A: Duolingo is the simplest one as it is less demanding in time and cost, and can be done at home. However, IELTS is more widely recognised internationally and is often required for visa purposes.

Q2. Does Duolingo qualify as a student visa in 2025?

A: There are a lot of universities that accept Duolingo, but there are also embassies that still require IELTS or TOEFL when submitting a visa application.

Q3. Is it possible to use more than one English test?

A: Yes! There is a variety of exams to take; most students take both the IELTS vs Duolingo to meet different score requirements.

Q4. What is the duration of validity of test scores?

A: IELTS and TOEFL can have an expiration period of two years, and Duolingo can also have a period of two years.

Q5. Why does Gateway International assist me in making a choice?

A: Our advisors go through your target universities, English test comparison facts, and direct you to the test that would suit your objectives.

Conclusion: IELTS vs Duolingo 

Deciding on IELTS vs Duolingo, or TOEFL is not only about the exam, but also about aligning your abilities, studying purpose, and university demands. IELTS has the best reputation in terms of visa and PR, while TOEFL performs very well in academic credibility. Duolingo is the fastest and cheapest option.

When comparing these options in a clear English test comparison, you will find that they depend on your destination country and the score requirements of each university, and the best option is.

At Gateway International, we guide you through the process step by step, as we assess your profile and provide you with the test that will increase your chances of admission. Our professionals will make sure you make confident preparations to produce the results that your dream university requires.

Register for your Free consultation today and discover the type of English test that best suits you, as well as the first step towards your international education experience with Gateway International.

About the author 

Shikha Vyas has worked as an SEO Content Expert for 8 years. She supports Indian students who want to Study Abroad by helping them secure admissions to leading foreign universities. She has helped more than 1,000 students gain admission to top universities. She discusses her learning journey, both in India and abroad, and guides her students through the US student visa process.