Duolingo published on 17 October 2024 the results of an external study linking Duolingo English Test (DET) scores to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The study was carried out in 2023 with a panel of twelve subject experts, who looked at the test’s content, how representative its scores are, and its reliability and validity.
Key facts
- Published 17 October 2024
- B1 DET 60 to 95
- B2 DET 100 to 125
- C1 DET 130 to 150
- C2 DET 155 to 160
The score bands
- B1: DET 60 to 95
- B2: DET 100 to 125
- C1: DET 130 to 150
- C2: DET 155 to 160
Duolingo says the results agree with an earlier concordance study published in 2024.
Why this matters
Many universities, especially in Europe, express English requirements as a CEFR level, for example B2 or C1, rather than as a score on a particular test. A published external alignment gives admissions staff a clear reference for converting a DET score into a CEFR level.
What it does not change
The DET scale, scoring and format are not changed by the study. Nor does it make the DET acceptable for purposes where only named tests are allowed, such as UK visa applications, which need a Secure English Language Test from the GOV.UK list.
What this means
If a university asks for B2 and accepts the DET, a score of at least 100 sits in the B2 band in this study, but always use the university’s own published DET minimum when it gives one, as it may set a higher figure. For C1-level programmes, the band starts at 130. Check whether the university also sets subscore minimums before you book.