How is preparing for an adaptive test different from other exams?

Because item difficulty adjusts based on previous answers, practice in this course spans a range of difficulty levels within each item type, helping learners build consistent accuracy rather than preparing for one fixed difficulty level.

What is the Video Interview section, and how is it practiced?

The Video Interview is a short, unscored spoken response recorded as part of the test. The Video Interview Preparation module walks through how to structure a clear response within the time given.

Can a parent manage the account for a teen learner?

Yes, for teen learners the account can be set up and managed by a parent, including billing and plan selection, while the learner logs in separately to complete lessons and practice.

English Proficiency

Duolingo English Test

English-language learners preparing for the Duolingo English Test, including students applying to college and adult applicants.

The Duolingo English Test differs from many other English proficiency exams in its adaptive, computer-administered format and its mix of item types that blend reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills within a single section. This course organizes lessons around those item types, such as read-and-select, read-and-complete, and listen-and-type tasks, alongside dedicated preparation for the Writing Sample and Video Interview sections. Learners build the underlying vocabulary and language skills the adaptive format draws from, then apply them through timed practice that reflects how quickly the real test moves. Scheduled webinars and on-demand written question support round out the self-paced lessons.

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Suitability: Suitable for teen students age 13 and older through adult learners.
Delivery format: 100% online, self-paced with scheduled live webinars
Modules: 6
Practice activities: Included
Mock examinations: Included
Instructor webinars: Included

Course modules

Learners work through video lessons and written explanations organized by item type, revisiting any module as often as needed. Where a learner's account is managed by a parent, the parent can review overall progress while the learner works through lessons independently.

Read-and-Select and Read-and-Complete Tasks

Vocabulary recognition and gap-filling item types drawn from the test's adaptive item pool.

Listen-and-Type and Listening Comprehension

Transcribing spoken audio accurately and answering comprehension questions about it.

Speaking Prompts

Responding clearly and fluently to short spoken prompts within a limited time.

Writing Sample

Composing a clear, well-organized written response to an open-ended prompt.

Video Interview Preparation

Structuring a brief, coherent spoken response to an interview-style prompt on video.

Adaptive Test Pacing Strategy

Building comfort with the test's fast, adaptive pacing across mixed item types.

Practice format

Practice sets are organized by item type, so a learner can focus on listen-and-type tasks, the Writing Sample, or any other area separately, with an explanation available for each item after it has been attempted.

Mock exam format

Full-length mock exams are structured to reflect the general format and pacing of the Duolingo English Test, covering its mixed item types along with the Writing Sample and Video Interview sections.

Webinar format

Scheduled live webinars led by a Duolingo English Test Instructor walk through commonly misunderstood item types, such as read-and-complete tasks or the Writing Sample, with time set aside for questions.

Written questions

Learners who want help outside of a webinar can submit a written question through the platform at any time. Responses come back through private platform messages, so getting help never requires appearing on camera or joining a live session.