Quick Comparison
Cost: Duolingo $65 | IELTS $255 | TOEFL $205
Duration: Duolingo 1 hour | IELTS 2h45m | TOEFL 3h+
Results: Duolingo 2 days | IELTS 13 days | TOEFL 4-8 days
Format: Duolingo online at home | IELTS in-person (paper or computer) | TOEFL online or in-person
Acceptance: Duolingo 5,000+ programs | IELTS 11,500+ | TOEFL 12,000+
Score Equivalencies
IELTS 6.5 ≈ TOEFL 79-93 ≈ Duolingo 105-115. IELTS 7.0 ≈ TOEFL 94-101 ≈ Duolingo 120-130. IELTS 7.5 ≈ TOEFL 102-109 ≈ Duolingo 130-140.
Which Should You Choose?
Take IELTS if: You're applying to UK, Australian, or Canadian universities (most widely accepted). You prefer face-to-face speaking tests. You need it for immigration purposes.
Take TOEFL if: You're applying primarily to US universities. You're comfortable with computer-based testing. You prefer integrated tasks (reading + listening + speaking).
Take Duolingo if: You're on a budget ($65 vs $255). You want results fast (2 days). Your target programs accept it. You want to take it from home.
Important Warning
Always check if your specific program accepts Duolingo before choosing it. While acceptance is growing rapidly, some universities and immigration authorities still require IELTS or TOEFL specifically. UK visa applications require a SELT-approved test (usually IELTS for UKVI).