Are you planning to study abroad but unsure which English proficiency test is best in 2025-26? It is crucial to decide which English proficiency test is best, but it depends clearly on your academic goals. Each test has multiple advantages, selection criteria, and limitations costs.
Choosing the best English proficiency test will save you hassle and speed up the process of getting a scholarship. These English language proficiency tests are a basic requirement to study abroad. Whether you are planning for an immigration, pursuing a university degree, or applying for a visa, the English proficiency test plays a significant role in this regard. The three best English Proficiency Test includes IELTS, TOEFL and the increasingly popular Duolingo Test.
This blog will break down which English proficiency test is best, and it will provide you with a detailed comparison of IELTS vs TOEFL vs Duolingo.
Comparison of IELTS vs TOEFL vs Duolingo 2025
It is important to choose the right English proficiency test and take a careful step towards your future. Below is the detailed analysis of which English proficiency is best depending upon your academic goals and career opportunities.
IELTS – Which English Proficiency Test is Best?
If you are searching for which English proficiency test is best for you, then IELTS is a popular proficiency test and a basic requirement by academic institutions of different countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. IELTS is a globally accepted English proficiency test. The IELTS Academic test cost varies from $280 to $340 depending on each country. The IELTS test is preferred for undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs in Commonwealth countries. Also, check the IELTS Preparation Guide for Beginners 2025.
IELTS Test Format and Length
The IELTS academic test is paper-based or computer-based, and it consists of four sections. The total estimated time for all four sections is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
Listening: The listening section of IELTS contains 40 questions, and it lasts for 40 minutes. It requires listening to the 4 recordings (10 minutes each) and answering the questions afterward.
Reading: The time allowed for academic reading will be 60 minutes, and it consists of 40 questions. Read various passages and answer the corresponding questions.
Writing: The writing section of IELTS consists of two writing tasks to be attempted in 60 minutes. For the first task, describe the data presented through a chart, table, or graph, and describe it in informal writing. You will be given 20 minutes to attempt this. The second task consists of a formal essay in response to an issue (40 minutes)
Speaking: Face-to-face interview with the examiner. The IELTS speaking test lasts for 11-14 minutes.
IELTS Scoring and Results
The IELTS Academic uses a band scale with band scores from 0 to 9. The IELTS test results will be available in 6 to 13 days (about 2 weeks), depending on your location of the test center and mode of performance.
One Skill Retake
You can also apply for a one-skill retake option that allows you to retake a single section instead of the full exam.
IELTS Validity Period
The IELTS test results will be valid for two years. It is important to consider the deadline and manage your visa applications according to it.
IELTS Acceptance and Scope
If you are aiming to pursue your higher studies in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, or European countries, then IELTS is the best English proficiency test for you. The visa applicants must consider the IELTS test because it is one of the basic requirements of international institutions and makes you eligible for working conditions. If you have strong written and oral communication skills, then IELTS is the best English proficiency test.
TOEFL—Which English Proficiency Test is Best?
It is important to decide which English proficiency test is best for you. This can be done by figuring out your goals and what your visa purposes are. TOEFL iBT, also known as the Internet-based test, is a widely recognized English proficiency test and is accepted by most of the US academic institutions. The TOEFL iBT test was developed by the English Testing System, and the general cost for this English proficiency test ranges from $200 to $250 globally. Do check this guide on TOEFL Test Preparation Free Course 2025.
TOEFL Test Format and Length
The TOEFL iBT test consists of four sections that include reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The TOEFL exam takes less than two hours to complete.
Reading: The reading section of the TOEFL exam consists of 20 questions, and the time allowed is 35 minutes. Read the given passages carefully and answer the questions based on those passages.
Writing: The writing section consists of two tasks to be completed in 29 minutes. The first task requires reading a passage, listening to a recording, and then writing your response. The second task requires stating an opinion in an online class discussion.
Listening: This section of the TOEFL iBT consists of 28 questions to be completed in 36 minutes. It requires listening to the classroom lectures and discussions carefully and answering the questions afterward.
Speaking: The speaking test requires 4 tasks to be completed in 16 minutes. Speak about real-life situations you might experience in and out of the classroom.
TOEFL Scoring and Results
Each section of the TOEFL iBT is graded on a scale of 0-30, with a total score of 120. If you are aiming for top universities, then your score must be more than 100. Similarly, the results for internet-based tests take 6 to 10 days (about 1 and a half weeks), whereas the results for paper-based tests take 11 to 13 days (about 2 weeks) to be released.
TOEFL iBT Validity Period
The TOEFL score results will be valid for two years from the test date. No reports will be acceptable after two years, and candidates will be required to take a new test.
TOEFL Retake Test
TOEFL does not offer a one-skill retake option for candidates who want to improve one section or have scored less in the first attempt. In case you want to retake the test, you must retake the whole test by paying registration fees.
TOEFL Acceptance and Scope
If you are aiming for US and Canadian universities, then the TOEFL is the best English proficiency test for you. Whether you want to appear in person or take the TOEFL test from home, the TOEFL proficiency test provides a computer-based test and academic questions. TOEFL is preferred for STEM and research-focused programs for talented students to pursue their degree programs internationally.
Duolingo—Which English Proficiency Test is Best?
Are you confused about which English proficiency test is best? The Duolingo English Test is one of the most flexible and affordable English proficiency tests, with a low registration cost that requires relatively less preparation. It takes about an hour to complete and is administered online. Due to its growing recognition and acceptance, this proficiency test is adapted worldwide, but make sure to check the university policies before applying.
Duolingo Test Format and Length
The Duolingo English Test (DET) costs only $70 and consists of three sections.
Introduction and Onboarding: This section is for 5 minutes, and it consists of a general introduction of the test taker and setup for the test.
Adaptive Test: This section of the Duolingo test lasts for 45 minutes, and it contains randomly generated questions with reading, listening, and writing tasks. The level of questions changes based on the examinee’s proficiency.
Writing and Speaking Sample: This section lasts for 10 minutes, and it provides you with prompts, and you are required to write and respond verbally.
DET Scoring and Results
The Duolingo English Test (DET) is graded on a 10 to 160 scale. The final score is equal to the average of performance across four skills, i.e., reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Most of the US’s institutions require a score greater than 110. The Duolingo test results will be available within 48 hours of the test.
Duolingo Validity Period
Like IELTS and TOEFL, the Duolingo English Test (DET) is also valid for two years. So, make sure to track the timeline and plan your study abroad opportunities accordingly.
Tips to Decide which English Proficiency Test is Best in 2025-26
- Check your desired institutions and verify which English proficiency test is required for admission.
- Give free sample tests, as it gives you an idea of which English proficiency test is best for you.
- Plan the costs and preparation time to get the most out of your efforts.
- Evaluate the test centers and mode of test and choose which English proficiency test is best for you.
Whether you are planning for an immigration or aiming to pursue your university education internationally, it can become hard to evaluate which English language proficiency test is best for you. You just need to reconsider your goals and costs for the test. If you are applying for scholarships or study programs abroad, start by checking the language requirements of your chosen universities. Preparation is just as important as choosing the right test. Taking an IELTS or TOEFL can help you get closer to your dream education internationally. This is not just an English proficiency test but a doorway to a successful future. Choose the right test and take the English Language Proficiency test that meets your university requirements and secure your chances of studying abroad.
Requirements may vary by institution and country!
