Best Time to Start Preparing for the Duolingo English Test

Best time to start preparing for the Duolingo English Test would depend on your current proficiency in English and comfort with the test format. For candidates starting from scratch, it is ideal to begin preparation at least 4 to 6 weeks before the test.  

In this timeframe, you can get familiar with the structure of the test, practice various types of questions, and work on areas to improve your language skills, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Consistent practice with sample questions will ensure a better performance on test day.

What is a Duolingo English Test?

Candidates should first familiarize themselves with the structure of the Duolingo English Test before beginning their preparation. The Duolingo test covers the four main skills: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. 

It's a computer-adaptive test, which means that the level of difficulty for the next question changes based on your previous response. The test takes about 60 minutes to complete and has two parts:

• Adaptive Test (45 minutes):  Tests reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
• Video Interview and Writing Sample (10 minutes): Records spontaneous speaking and writing responses.

Your final score ranges from 10 to 160, and most top universities require scores between 115 and 130.

What is the Best Time to Start Preparing for the Duolingo English Test?

The best time to start preparing for the Duolingo English Test (DET) depends on your current English proficiency and your target score. 

• If you are a beginner or at a low-intermediate level, it is best to start preparing 4 to 6 weeks before your test date. 
• If you are intermediate or advanced, you can start preparing about 3 to 4 weeks before the test.
• If you are fluent or near-native in English, one to two weeks of preparation is usually enough.
• In general, it is best to start preparing as early as possible so that you can build confidence and avoid last-minute stress.

Detailed Timeline to Start Preparing for the Duolingo English Test 

A well-structured Duolingo English Test preparation timeline will keep you organized and able to cover all the topics properly. Here is a sample plan based on a two-month duration:

Duolingo English Test Study Plan Duration

The right choice of study plan duration depends on your available time, goals, and the level of proficiency. Below, three realistic timelines will be focused on to help you decide:

Key Factors to Consider Before Starting Preparation

The following are some of the factors that you need to consider while preparing for the Duolingo English Test:

1. University deadlines

Check the application deadlines of the universities you are applying to. You should start preparing at least 3 or 4 months in advance of your earliest submission date, allowing time for results and possible retakes.

2. Current Level of English

Take a free practice test to identify your strengths and weaknesses. This will help you estimate your required Duolingo English Test preparation time.

3. Study Resources

Start off by gathering the right materials: official Duolingo practice tests, online preparation platforms, YouTube lessons, and speaking topic PDFs.

4. Testing Conditions

Since the test will be taken online from home, make sure you are acquainted with the technical requirements, like setting up the webcam and ensuring a quiet space, and connecting to a reliable internet connection.

Tips to Maximize your Duolingo English Test Preparation Time

Familiarize yourself with the test format and use official practice materials to understand the types of questions you will face. Monitor your progress once a week through a progress chart in order to adjust your study schedule as necessary.

Here are a few tips:

• Establish daily goals; break down your preparation into small, achievable targets, say 30 minutes of practice in reading or 20 minutes of speaking.
• Practice Under Actual Test Conditions: Set a timer during mock tests to simulate the actual pressure of the test.
• Record and Review Speaking Practice: This can help you identify problems in pronunciation and fluency.
• Use Authentic Materials: Practice from official Duolingo sample questions and speaking topics PDFs for accuracy.