If you’re planning to study abroad in 2025, proving your English language skills is one of the first things you’ll need to do. No matter your destination be it the UK, USA, Canada, Australia or Europe most universities will ask for an English proficiency test. Among the most recognized tests are IELTS, TOEFL, and the rising newcomer, Duolingo English Test.
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Choosing between them can feel overwhelming. All the tests vary in structure, cost, test environment and acceptance range. In some universities IELTS is favoured. TOEFL is accepted by others. Duolings getting popular fast. So, which one then suits you?
This guide simplifies everything you want to know in 2025. We’ll explore what each test involves, how they differ, and how to choose the best one based on your goals.
Why English Language Proficiency Tests Matter
English is the primary language of instruction in many top universities around the world. To ensure students can succeed in their academic programs, universities use standardized English language tests to assess a student’s reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.
These exams:
- Act as a requirement for admission.
- Help in visa approvals for many countries.
- Sometimes serve as proof for scholarships and funding.
- Show that you can handle coursework, lectures, and communication.
These tests are not just about language. They are about proving your readiness to integrate into a foreign academic system.
Overview of Each Test
Let’s break down what each of these three major tests includes—how they work, their structure, scoring, and where they’re accepted.
1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
About the Test:
IELTS is one of the oldest and most trusted English tests in the world. It’s jointly managed by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English.
Test Versions:
- IELTS Academic: for study purposes.
- IELTS General Training: for work and migration.
Format:
- Listening: 30 minutes
- Reading: 60 minutes
- Writing: 60 minutes
- Speaking: 11–14 minutes (face-to-face with an examiner)
Scoring:
- Each section is scored from 0 to 9.
- The overall band score is the average of the four section scores.
Mode:
- Available in both paper-based and computer-delivered formats.
- The speaking test is always in person or video call.
Acceptance:
Widely accepted by universities in UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and over 140 countries.
2. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
About the Test:
TOEFL is run by ETS (Educational Testing Service) and is most commonly used by institutions in the United States and Canada.
Format:
- Reading: 35 minutes
- Listening: 36 minutes
- Speaking: 16 minutes
- Writing: 29 minutes
Scoring:
- Each section scored out of 30.
- Total score out of 120.
Mode:
Taken on a computer in official testing centers or at home (TOEFL iBT Home Edition).
Acceptance:
Recognized by over 11,500 universities in 160+ countries, including USA, UK, Canada, and Australia.
3. Duolingo English Test
About the Test:
Launched in recent years, Duolingo is a fast, affordable, and convenient test designed for modern students. It gained popularity during the pandemic and continues to rise.
Format:
- Adaptive Test: One hour
- Includes reading, listening, writing, and speaking
- Video Interview: 10 minutes
Scoring:
- Scored on a scale from 10 to 160.
- You get a detailed score report with section-wise scores.
Mode:
Fully online. Take it from your own home with a webcam and internet.
Acceptance:
Accepted by 4,500+ institutions worldwide, including top universities in the US and UK.
Key Differences at a Glance
While all three exams assess your English skills, they do it differently. Below is a detailed table that highlights the key differences in structure, evaluation, availability, and suitability.
| Criteria | IELTS | TOEFL | Duolingo |
| Test Sections | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing | Adaptive + Video Interview |
| Test Duration | ~2 hrs 45 min | ~1 hr 56 min | ~1 hr |
| Mode of Test | Computer/Paper (Offline + Online) | Computer (Home or Center) | Online (Home only) |
| Result Time | 3–5 days (computer), 13 days (paper) | 4–8 days | 48 hours |
| Cost (INR) | ~₹16,250 | ~₹16,900 | ~₹4,500 |
| Scoring Scale | Band 0–9 | 0–120 | 10–160 |
| Test Validity | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years |
| Speaking Test Format | In-person/video call with examiner | Recorded answers on computer | Recorded audio + video interview |
| Universities Accepted | 11,000+ institutions worldwide | 11,500+ institutions worldwide | 4,500+ institutions and counting |
| Ease of Booking | High availability | Moderate availability | Instant availability |
| Preferred By | UK, Canada, Australia | USA, Canada | Modern universities globally |
Which Test Is Best for You?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Each test has advantages based on your personal learning style, your university choices, and your comfort level with online testing.
Choose IELTS if:
- You prefer structured testing environments.
- Your target universities are in the UK, Australia, or New Zealand.
- You are comfortable interacting with an examiner in the Speaking test.
Choose TOEFL if:
- You’re applying to American universities.
- You’re good at typing fast and responding digitally.
- You prefer longer reading/writing formats.
Choose Duolingo if:
- You want to save money and time.
- You’re looking for convenience and quick results.
- You’re applying to universities that accept Duolingo scores.
The best test for you will depend on where you are applying, what you’re comfortable with, and how quickly you need the results.
Pros and Cons
Let’s break down the major advantages and limitations of each test in 2025:
| Test | Pros | Cons |
| IELTS | Widely accepted, familiar format, in-person speaking test | Longer test duration, costlier, speaking test may feel stressful |
| TOEFL | Detailed academic assessment, preferred in USA | Requires fast typing skills, costlier, no human interaction in speaking |
| Duolingo | Affordable, fast results, take from home, growing in popularity | Not accepted everywhere yet, adaptive format can feel unusual |
Expert Tips to Choose the Right Exam
- Check University Requirements: Not all universities accept all three tests. Always check your shortlisted university websites first.
- Assess Your Strengths: Are you good at typing? Do you feel confident speaking with a person vs. a computer? Do you manage time well under pressure?
- Factor in Budget & Deadlines: If your deadline is close, Duolingo might be your best option. If budget is not a concern and wide acceptance matters, IELTS or TOEFL is safer.
- Try Practice Tests: Doing a mock test for each will show which format suits you best. Many platforms offer free sample tests.
- Think About Visa Requirements: Some countries prefer IELTS for visa processing, like the UK and Australia. For the US, TOEFL still holds strong.
How Transglobal Overseas Can Help You
Choosing the right test is just the first step. Once you’ve made your decision, you’ll need support—from test preparation to university selection, and even visa applications. That’s where Transglobal Overseas comes in.
With years of experience helping Indian students apply to top universities abroad, Transglobal provides:
- Personalized test preparation guidance for IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo.
- University shortlisting based on test eligibility and your profile.
- Mock interviews, profile assessments, and SOP/LOR support.
- Step-by-step visa documentation assistance.
If you’re unsure where to begin, Transglobal’s expert counsellors will walk you through the entire process so you can focus on doing your best in the exam.
Conclusion
In 2025 there are more options available than ever before on English testing with students. Depending on your ambitions, personality traits, and country of study, you can either take IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo. All of the tests have their own format, advantages, and complications, however they all have one aim to demonstrate that you are going to be successful in international academic setting.
This choice will determine whether the whole study abroad experience will be successful. So, do your research, assess your skills, and trust your instincts.
And if you need guidance at any step, from choosing the right test to preparing for it or applying to your dream school, Transglobal Overseas is here to help. We make studying abroad not just a dream—but a plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which English proficiency test is accepted by most universities abroad?
Most universities accept IELTS and TOEFL as the main English tests. PTE is also widely accepted, especially in the UK and Australia. These tests are known for being reliable and standard for student admissions. They are trusted by top universities worldwide.
2. Is the Duolingo English Test valid for student visas?
In most cases, no. Countries like the UK, Australia, and New Zealand do not accept Duolingo for visa purposes. Canada also does not accept it for the student visa process. You must take IELTS or TOEFL for student visa approval in most countries.
3. How much does each English test cost?
IELTS usually costs ₹16,250 in India. TOEFL costs about ₹16,000. PTE costs around ₹15,900. Duolingo is the cheapest, at around ₹4,000. Prices may vary slightly by test center and country.
4. Can Duolingo be used for studying in the UK or Canada?
Some universities in the UK and Canada accept Duolingo for admission. But for a student visa, you still need IELTS or TOEFL. So, even if the university accepts Duolingo, your visa may get rejected without the right test.
5. How long are IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo scores valid?
All three tests—IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo—are valid for two years from the test date. After two years, you must retake the test if required again. Universities and embassies follow this rule strictly.
6. How long does it take to get results from each test?
Duolingo gives results in 2 days. IELTS takes about 3 to 5 days for computer-based and 13 days for paper-based. TOEFL gives results in 4 to 8 days. PTE results usually come in 2 to 5 days.
7. Which test focuses more on academic English skills?
TOEFL focuses the most on academic English. IELTS Academic also tests in a study-based context. PTE checks both general and academic skills. Duolingo is more general and less academic in nature.
8. Do all universities accept Duolingo English Test scores?
No, not all universities accept Duolingo. Many top universities still prefer IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. Always check the official university website before choosing Duolingo. Don’t assume it will work everywhere.
