If you’re preparing for the Duolingo English Test (DET), it’s vital to know exactly how long the test takes, how the sections are structured, and what’s changed this year. We know how every minute can count—both for your actual exam and your test preparation. With new updates in the DET format and recent changes making headlines, a clear, thorough breakdown will help you set the right expectations and develop the most effective test strategy. Read on for an insider’s view on the DET duration, the anatomy of each section, and the adjustments test-takers should know for 2026.
How Long Is the Duolingo English Test?
The DET remains a streamlined, one-hour exam—efficient but rigorous enough to assess your English skills comprehensively in a short time. Specifically, it takes about 60 minutes from start to finish. Let’s see where those 60 minutes go.
| Section | Typical Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Onboarding, System & ID Checks | 5 minutes | Set-up, identity and tech requirements, instructions |
| Main Adaptive Test | 45 minutes | Scored, adaptive: reading, listening, writing, speaking tasks |
| Writing & Speaking Samples | 10 minutes | Unscored, institutions can review your real writing & speech |
| Total | 60 minutes |
Section-By-Section Breakdown
1. Pre-Test Setup & Introduction (About 5 Minutes)
- Identity Verification: You’ll need to upload an approved photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or national ID).
- System & Room Check: DET uses your webcam and microphone, runs a 360-degree scan of your surroundings, and verifies device compatibility.
- Rules & Instructions: You’ll see key rules (no outside materials, no phone, stay visible at all times) and instructions for navigating the online test format.
- Be sure to have a quiet, well-lit, private space and a stable internet connection before you start—there are no breaks once you begin.
2. Main Adaptive Test (Approximately 45 Minutes)
- This is the graded core of the DET. The test adapts dynamically to your ability, so no two tests are identical. If you answer questions correctly, they become more challenging; if you struggle, they adjust to your level.
- The exact breakdown of question types is not published, but you can expect a balanced mix across all four language domains:
- Reading: Fill-in-blanks, comprehension, and text editing.
- Listening: Listen to a word or sentence and type what you hear, or interpret a short audio and answer.
- Writing: Type short and extended responses—sentence reconstruction, word dictation, photo description, and more.
- Speaking: Read sentences aloud, describe a picture, or respond to audio prompts. Some speaking prompts now involve brief, back-and-forth recorded dialogues, introduced as part of the July 2025 update.
- Timing: The DET algorithm will automatically move you through questions and end the section when the system determines it has enough information to score your proficiency accurately (usually around 45 minutes).
3. Writing & Speaking Samples (About 10 Minutes)
- This final part is unique: it is not scored, but is required, as universities love the chance to see real writing and spoken English in your own words, unedited by software.
- Writing Sample: Respond to a written prompt in 3-5 minutes. The goal is clear, coherent, and accurate writing demonstrating your skill and personality.
- Speaking Sample: Record your reply to a question, monologue style, in 1-3 minutes. This showcases pronunciation, fluency, and thought organization.
- 2025 Update: The new interactive speaking component means some speaking samples now simulate a conversation, adding realism and testing quick thinking.
What’s Changed in the Test Duration or Format for 2025?
- The DET remains a one-hour exam in 2025—timing has NOT increased, although question types (especially in speaking and listening) have been modernized.
- Listening and speaking question types have been updated for clarity and authenticity, making the test fairer and more reflective of real-life English use.
- Browser compatibility, AI security checks, and instant applicant support have all improved, meaning a smoother experience and less risk of technical issues causing delays.
Can You Take a Break During the Duolingo English Test?
No. There are absolutely no breaks during the test—once you begin, you should stay at your station, fully focused. Plan accordingly: get water, use the restroom, and settle your tech and environment before clicking “Start.” This makes practicing the test in real time using platforms like DET Practice Test especially valuable..
How Does the Adaptive Format Impact Time?
- The main test doesn’t use a set number of questions. Instead, it keeps presenting questions until the algorithm reliably estimates your ability level.
- This approach means some test-takers may finish certain sections slightly faster or slower, but the section timing is controlled by the platform; you can’t move ahead or go back at will.
- Accuracy matters early—strong initial performance can lead to harder but fewer questions, sometimes saving you mental energy!
When Do You Get Your Results?
Your DET score report is typically ready within 48 hours. It includes your overall score and sub-scores, as well as your ungraded writing and speaking samples sent to institutions. The speed and transparency are part of the DET’s appeal versus traditional English language tests.
Preparing for the One-Hour DET Experience: Our Top Tips
- Simulate real timing with a full-length, uninterrupted free DET Practice Test—experience the adaptive format, new speaking question types, and instant feedback.
- Master adaptive question types by doing individual section drills—focus on Read Aloud, Listen & Respond, Write About the Photo, and Picture Description tasks in isolation before full mocks.
- Practice spontaneous speech by recording yourself answering random prompts in under 35 seconds; this is especially crucial for the new interactive speaking module.
- Set a timer in your full mocks and for individual tasks, to build time-awareness and stress resilience.
- Confirm technical readiness (browser, webcam/mic, reliable internet) ahead of the real exam to avoid losing precious time or facing interruptions. Our detailed pre-exam checklist is included with every DET practice session.
- Review commonly asked questions and technical issues in our detailed FAQ and support guide. This helps you minimize nasty surprises on test day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the sections always occur in the same order?
Can the actual duration ever change?
Key Takeaways
- 60 minutes flat: The DET in 2025 is precisely timed, with three main phases: pre-test checks (5 minutes), adaptive core (45 minutes), writing/speaking samples (10 minutes).
- No breaks. No pausing, skipping, or rewinding—practice in one sitting for best results.
- Unlike other tests, adaptive format means content and difficulty shift based on your responses, but the overall schedule never does.
- July 2025 brings new interactive speaking tasks—practice these for an edge.
- Be sure your space and tech set-up comply with stricter room scan and browser rules.
- Preparation should mirror real exam conditions—timed, quiet, and distraction-free.
Ready to Practice the Real DET Experience?
There’s no substitute for a full-length, realistic practice exam. With DET Practice Test, you can take a free mock, get an AI-scored report, and explore 160+ targeted section sets to nail every skill and section. If you want authentic practice for speaking, writing, and adaptive question types—with instant analytics and expert tips—join over 5 million users who trust our platform every year.
For more test strategies, recent DET updates, and in-depth tips for every section, explore our blog library. Good luck with your studies—your one-hour DET success story starts with practice!
Also Read:
- What is the Duolingo English Test? Full Guide to Format, Scoring & Why Universities Accept It.
- DET Speaking Idioms: 10 Essential Expressions to Boost Your Duolingo English Test Score
