How Many Times Can I Take Duolingo English Test? Everything You Need to Know

If you didn’t get your DET score first time, you might be wondering, “How many times can I take the Duolingo English Test?” 

Even if you’re already great at English, you might be wondering, “What happens if I mess up? What happens if I don’t pass on the first try? Can I take the test again?”

It’s an important question asked by a lot of students. Especially if you’re trying to prove your English skills for universities, employers, or even visa applications.

Well, listen up because I’ve got some good news – the Duolingo English Test is pretty good and very flexible when it comes to retaking your test.

In this article, we’ll explain exactly how many times you can take the test, the rules around retakes, and even give you some tips to avoid retakes (by passing first time!)

So, let’s go!

How Often Can You Take the Duolingo English Test?

Are There Limits on Test Attempts?

Yes, there are a few limits, but don’t worry, they’re not too bad.

When you purchase a Duolingo English Test, you receive one credit.

Here’s how it works:  

• You get three attempts to use the credit to complete your test.  
• Any time you start the test, it counts as an attempt.  
• If you purchase a test bundle, you receive two credits.  
• You can purchase up to three tests in any 30-day period.  
• You’ll need to pay for each test purchase.

This system gives students a few attempts at the test while keeping things fair.

Understanding Duolingo’s Policies for Retaking the Test

Duolingo’s retake policies are designed to be student-friendly:

• Unlimited Total Attempts: In theory, you can take the test as many times as you like. There’s no overall limit.
• Flexible Score Submission: If you take more than one test, you choose which scores to send to institutions. So, if you have a bad day – just do another test and send your best score.

Can You Take the Duolingo English Test Multiple Times in a Month?

How Many Times Can I Take Duolingo English Test Within 30 Days?

Duolingo doesn’t set a limit on how many tests you take in a month.

Instead, they only let you purchase three tests in any 30-day period.

• Remember, if you take a test, you’ll need to get your results before taking another test.
• And you can’t save up tests either. You have to complete the test within 21 days of buying it. (So you can’t save up 10 tests and take them all in one go.) 
• But if you time it right, you can take up to three tests in one month.

Waiting Periods and Restrictions Between Test Attempts

There isn’t a mandatory waiting period between tests, but before starting a new test you’ll have to:

1. Finish your current test.
2. Get your results (usually within 48 hours).

Once you’ve got your results, if you’re not happy with the score and you think you’re ready for another try, you can book another test.

Just make sure you haven’t bought more than three tests in the last 30 days.

I know it sounds complicated, right?

Let me explain:

Vikram’s UK University Application

Let’s follow Vikram, who wants to study in the UK.

He needs a Duolingo score of 100 to support his university application.

The application needs to be submitted by the 31st of May.

• 1st March: Vikram buys his first Duolingo English Test. (Purchase 1)
  
• 5th March: Vikram takes the test.
  
• 7th March: Vikram receives his results but only scores 85. He decides to try again immediately.
  
• 8th March: Vikram buys his second test. (Purchase 2 – This is allowed as it’s only his second purchase within 30 days).
  
• 12th March: He takes the second test.
  
• 14th March: Vikram gets his results, but he only scores 95, slightly below what he needs.
  
• 15th March: He decides to buy a third test. (Purchase 3 – This is also allowed, as it’s his third purchase since 1st March, which falls within the 30-day limit).
  
• 20th March: Vikram takes his third test.
  
• Scenario 1
  
  • 22nd March: Success! Vikram scores 110 on the third attempt. He has his score well before the 31st May deadline.
    
• Scenario 2
  
  • Needs Another Try: Vikram’s score is still not quite there. He needs to buy another test.
  • However, because he already purchased three tests between 1st March and 15th March, he cannot buy another test yet.
  • He must wait until 30 days have passed since his first purchase.
    
• 1st April: 30 days have now passed since Vikram’s first purchase on 1st March. The purchase limit resets on a rolling basis. He can now buy his fourth test. (Purchase 4 – His 1st March purchase is no longer within the last 30 days).
  
• 5th April: Vikram takes his fourth test.
  
• 7th April: Vikram receives his results, hopefully meeting the requirement this time, still leaving plenty of time before the 31st May deadline.

Why Would You Need to Retake the Duolingo English Test?

We’re not robots – we all make mistakes, and sometimes we might end up retaking a test!

It’s nothing to worry about and is more common than you might think.

Most people have to take the test at least twice. 

Common Reasons for Retaking the Duolingo English Test

1. Improving Your Score:
   So you didn’t quite hit the score you needed for university or a job application. Simply retaking the test will give you another shot at it. Remember, you choose which results to send!
2. Fixing Technical Issues:
   Glitches can happen. If your test is messed up because of a power cut or dodgy wifi, you will need to retake the test. If this happens you can retake the test up to three times per credit! (More on that later.)
3. Meeting Specific Institutional Requirements:
   You might already have a great score, but sometimes, universities or programs only accept a recent test. And remember, your DET score is only valid for a maximum of 2 years. 

Retaking the Test: Costs and Considerations

Each attempt costs $70 (the standard Duolingo English Test fee). Or $59 if you buy two together.

Since retakes are not free, it’s a good idea to prepare thoroughly and aim to pass on your first or second attempt to save both time and money.

And if you want to score 120 or higher the first time you take the DET, make sure to check out our Duolingo English Test Complete Preparation Course.

If you’re not sure whether you’re ready to take the test, you can check out one of our Full Test videos on YouTube, like this one:

Frequently Asked Questions About Duolingo Test Attempts

Do You Have to Pay for Each Attempt?

Yes, each test purchase requires payment.

• When you buy a test, you get a credit.
  • The credit will let you have up to three attempts to complete your exam.
  • Great if your internet cuts out or you have a problem with your equipment.
• You can only get one result for each purchase.
• There are no discounts for retakes, so it’s important to budget carefully.
• You might be able to get a test for free if you qualify for the Duolingo English Test fee waiver – find out more details here.

Is There a Limit to How Many Times I Can Take Duolingo English Test?

There’s no limit to how many times you can buy the test overall. But you can only purchase three tests in any 30-day period.

Each test purchase gives you one credit, and each credit allows for three test attempts.

Does Retaking the Duolingo English Test Impact Your Application?

Not at all. Institutions only see the scores you choose to send. So, retaking the test lets you show your best performance.

Tips for Passing the Duolingo English Test on Your First Attempt

Okay, retakes are handy, but passing the first time is even better, right?

So, if you’re wondering how to pass the DET first time, here are some tips to get you started:

How to Prepare Effectively to Avoid Retakes

• Get to Know the Test Format: Understand how the test works and have a go at similar questions. You can take a full 1-hour practice test here.
  
• Use Sample Prompts: Practice responding to DET-style prompts with natural speaking and writing. Check out our Duolingo English Test Complete Preparation Course, it’s packed with videos and DET practice resources.
   
• Use Free Resources: Make the most of free resources like Duolingo’s official practice materials, YouTube tutorials, and guides from sites like Last Minute English.   

Free Resources for Improving Your Speaking and Writing Skills

Leverage free resources like:

• Duolingo’s official practice materials.
• Video tutorials on YouTube.
• Guides from trusted platforms like Last Minute English.

Duolingo English Test vs. Other Exams: Flexibility in Retakes

One of the best things about the Duolingo English Test is how flexible it is compared to other exams like IELTS or TOEFL.

With Duolingo, you’ve got the option to retake the test without facing massive costs or long delays.

Making the Most of Your Duolingo Test Experience

How to Use Feedback to Improve Your Score

• After each attempt, you’ll get an overall score and a breakdown showing how well you did across the different skills.
• You can look at this to see where you are doing well and where you can improve the most.
• Focus on getting better at specific skills, such as pronunciation or grammar, before your next attempt.

Managing Stress and Staying Focused During Retakes

• Stay Positive: Retaking the test is simply another chance to do better, and you’ll have the bonus of being an experienced Duolingo Test taker!
• Practice Regularly: Short, consistent practice sessions are more effective than cramming.

Ready to Take the Duolingo English Test?

At Last Minute English, we want you to pass your English exam with confidence. Whether it’s your first attempt or a retake, we have the resources you need to succeed.

Check out our Duolingo English Test Complete Preparation Course to find out more.

Final Thoughts

Don’t think of retaking the Duolingo English Test as stressful.

With flexible policies, affordable costs, and plenty of preparation resources, it could be just what you need to get the score you really want.

Any questions about testing or tips for improving your score, drop a comment below—we’re here to help!