What it is
If English isn't your first language, universities usually require an English proficiency test to show you can study in English. The three main options are the TOEFL iBT, IELTS, and the Duolingo English Test. All test reading, listening, speaking, and writing — but they differ in format, price, and where they're accepted, so check which your target schools accept and their required score.
Format & structure
- TOEFL iBT (ETS)Four sections — Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing — computer-based; shortened in 2023 to under 2 hours. Widely accepted, especially in the U.S.
- IELTS (British Council / IDP / Cambridge)Four sections — Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking (a live speaking interview); Academic (for university) or General Training; on computer or paper. Strong in the UK, Australia, Canada, and increasingly the U.S.
- Duolingo English Test (DET)A ~1-hour, online, adaptive test you take from home with your webcam — the cheapest and fastest, and increasingly accepted.
How it's scored
- TOEFL iBT0–120 total (each of the four sections 0–30)
- IELTSBand 0–9 overall and per skill (e.g., many universities want 6.5–7.0+)
- Duolingo10–160 overall, with subscores
There's no universal passing score — each university sets its own minimum for whichever tests it accepts.
Registration & cost
Register on the official site for your test — ETS (TOEFL), British Council / IDP (IELTS), or Duolingo English Test. Costs vary widely: the Duolingo test is cheapest (around $65), while TOEFL and IELTS run roughly $200–$260 depending on country. Send scores to your universities.
Test dates & timing
TOEFL and the Duolingo test are offered very frequently (Duolingo on demand from home; TOEFL many dates including home editions). IELTS has frequent test dates at centers (and computer-delivered options with faster results). Book early enough to get scores before your application deadlines.
How to prepare
- Use official prepEach test's maker offers official practice — TOEFL practice sets, IELTS practice materials, and the free Duolingo practice test
- Practice all four skillsSpeaking and writing often need the most work for non-native speakers
- Match the test to your strengthsSome students do better with IELTS's live speaking interview; others prefer TOEFL's recorded format or Duolingo's speed
- Check accepted scoresPrepare to hit each target university's required score
Strategies & tips
- Pick the test your schools acceptConfirm acceptance and the minimum score first
- Consider cost and speedDuolingo is cheapest and fastest; TOEFL/IELTS are the traditional standards
- Practice under timed conditionsEspecially speaking and writing
- Send scores strategicallyKnow how many free score sends you get
How scores are used
Universities use your English score to confirm you can handle coursework in English (and sometimes for visa or scholarship purposes). Requirements vary by program and level — graduate programs often want higher scores. Some schools waive the requirement if you studied in English. Always check the exact policy.
Accommodations & support
Each test offers accommodations for documented disabilities — request them through ETS, the IELTS provider, or Duolingo ahead of your test date.
Frequently asked questions
- Which test should I take?Whichever your target universities accept — many take all three; compare cost, format, and required scores.
- Is Duolingo accepted?By a growing number of universities, but not all — verify with each school.
- TOEFL or IELTS?Both are widely accepted; TOEFL is common in the U.S., IELTS in the UK/Australia/Canada. Pick your stronger format.
- What score do I need?It depends on the university and program — check each one.
- Can the requirement be waived?Sometimes, if you studied in English — ask the school.
Key facts
- TestsTOEFL iBT · IELTS · Duolingo English Test
- SkillsReading, Listening, Speaking, Writing
- ScoresTOEFL 0–120 · IELTS band 0–9 · Duolingo 10–160
- Cost~$65 (Duolingo) to ~$260 (TOEFL/IELTS)
- Used forUniversity admission for non-native speakers
Where to learn more
Confirm the latest details on the official sites: