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HomeBlogDuolingo English Test (DET) Score to IELTS: Conversion Table

Duolingo English Test (DET) Score to IELTS: Conversion Table

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Lume Test
Published on: April 22, 2025

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a quick and online way to check your English skills, but how does it match your IELTS scores? 

Understanding the Duolingo English test (DET) score to IELTS conversion can help you see how your results compare.

In this guide, LUME Test will show you the score comparison between Duolingo English Test (DET) and IELTS, passing scores, and what your result means.

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Key Takeaways

  • Duolingo English Test (DET) scores range from 10 to 160, while IELTS uses a 0 to 9 band system.
  • While Duolingo English Test (DET) exams assess integrated skills, IELTS evaluates 4 separate skills.
  • Mid-range Duolingo English Test (DET) scores (60 to 115) correspond to IELTS bands 4 to 6, showing moderate English proficiency.
  • Higher Duolingo English Test (DET) scores (120 to 160) align with IELTS bands 6.5 to 9.0, representing strong to expert-level English.

Related:

Understanding Duolingo English Test (DET) Scores

Your DET score shows your English skills in a clear and detailed way. 

The overall score ranges from 10 to 160 and helps schools and institutions understand your level.

Instead of just one number, your score report includes 4 subscores:

  • Literacy (reading and writing)
  • Comprehension (reading and listening)
  • Conversation (listening and speaking)
  • Production (writing and speaking)

These subscores show how well you use English in real situations. 

Unlike IELTS or PTE, where each skill is tested separately, Duolingo English Test (DET) measures how skills work together. 

Your test report also includes a score range (e.g., 120-130), giving a more accurate picture of your language ability. 

Also, schools can use this to understand your strengths and overall proficiency.

Understanding IELTS Test Scores

The IELTS score shows your English ability on a scale from 0 to 9. 

It is accepted by universities, employers, and immigration authorities around the world. 

The test measures four skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

Each band score represents a different level of English:

  • Band 9 – Fluent and accurate
  • Band 8 – Very strong skills
  • Band 7 – Good, but with some mistakes
  • Band 6 – Understand well, some struggles
  • Band 5 – Basic English, many errors
  • Band 4 – Limited skills
  • Band 3 – Very little skill
  • Band 2 – Knows a few words
  • Band 1 – Almost no skill
  • Band 0 – No test was taken

Duolingo English Test (DET) Score To IELTS

The table below shows you the Duolingo English Test (DET) and IELTS equivalents:

Duolingo English Test (DET) score IELTS band score
160 8.5 8.5 – 9.0
150 – 155 8.0
140 – 145 7.5
130 – 135 7.0
120 – 125 6.5
105 – 115 6.0
95 – 100 5.5
80 – 90 5.0
65 – 75 4.5
60 4.0
10 – 55 0 – 4

Duolingo English Test (DET) Score To IELTS Interpretation

Besides understanding the comparison between Duolingo English Test (DET) score and IELTS, knowing how to interpret the score is essential to assess your real level.

10 – 55 

A Duolingo English Test (DET) score between 10 and 55 is equivalent to an IELTS band score of 0 to 4. 

At this level, test-takers have a very limited understanding of English. 

They are able to identify basic words and everyday phrases but may find complicated sentences challenging to comprehend. 

Communication is possible in basic and familiar situations, but understanding detailed or fast-paced speech is difficult.

60 – 90

Duolingo English Test (DET) 60 to 90 corresponds with an IELTS band score of 4 to 5. 

Learners at this level are able to determine the main points in speeches and written exams on general topics like work or school. 

They are able to talk about their options, goals, and experiences, although their spoken output may not be fluent or correct.

95 – 115

A 95 to 115 on the Duolingo English Test (DET) is equivalent to an IELTS band score of 5.5 to 6.0. 

The level enables candidates to communicate effectively, even on unfamiliar topics. 

They can capture the main point in everyday topics. 

Also, they can understand abstract writing more easily and communicate with native speakers without much problem.

120 – 145

For an IELTS band score of 6.5 to 7.5, the Duolingo English Test (DET) score is between 120 and 145:

  • Band 6.5: Test-takers can handle complex language and understand detailed texts despite some misunderstandings. 

Also, they can communicate effectively in most situations. 

  • Band 7.0 to 7.5: At this level, candidates have a strong command of English, with only small errors.

They are able to understand complex ideas, engage in discussion fluently, and express thoughts clearly and naturally.

150 – 160

A Duolingo English Test (DET) score between 150 and 160 equals an IELTS band score of 7.5 to 9.0.

  • Band 7.5: Test-takers can grasp complex discussions, including specialized topics.

Also, they can communicate fluently with minimal errors.

  • Band 8.0: Fully understand both formal and informal language, including idiomatic accuracy.

They could handle detailed discussions effortlessly.

  • Band 9.0: At this highest level, candidates are able to display complete fluency, accuracy, and ease in all communication settings, similar to native speakers.

Conclusion

Understanding the Duolingo English Test (DET) score to IELTS comparison helps you understand your level. 

It may help you plan better and make informed decisions.

Whether you are preparing for study, work, or immigration, choose the right test for your goals.

Want to ACE the Duolingo English Test (DET) And Reach Your Goals?

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✅ 10,000+ PRACTICE QUESTIONS with detailed answers

✅ FREE MOCK TESTS with fast & accurate AI scoring

✅ Get BETTER SCORES with a PERSONALIZED study plan

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Lume Test is a leading platform offering practice questions and mock tests for major English exams like PTE, IELTS, TOEIC, Duolingo English Test, and more. We provide up-to-date, comprehensive materials designed to help learners improve their language skills and achieve high scores. With expert-crafted tests that closely mirror real exam formats, Lume Test ensures you're fully prepared for success. Your goals are our mission!

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