IELTS vs TOEFL vs Duolingo – A Bangladeshi Student’s Guide 🇧🇩🎓
English language proficiency tests are a crucial part of the admission process for international students aiming to study abroad. In Bangladesh, especially in cities like Chattogram, students often wonder which English test is the best choice for their academic goals.
This blog provides an in-depth comparison of the three most popular English proficiency tests — IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo English Test — highlighting their differences, country preferences, test center availability, and guidance options for Bangladeshi students.
Overview of the Three English Tests
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- What it is: IELTS is a globally recognized English proficiency test jointly managed by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge Assessment English. It assesses listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills.
- Types: Academic (for university admission) and General Training (for immigration and work).
- Country Preferences: Widely accepted in the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and many European countries. The USA also accepts IELTS scores at many universities.
- Test Format: Paper-based and computer-delivered options available.
- Test Duration: Around 2 hours 45 minutes.
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- What it is: TOEFL is administered by ETS (Educational Testing Service) and primarily tests academic English through reading, listening, speaking, and writing modules.
- Types: The most common is TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test).
- Country Preferences: Widely accepted in the USA, Canada, Australia, and many European countries. Some universities in the UK also accept the TOEFL.
- Test Format: Online (internet-based) test only.
- Test Duration: Around 3 hours.
- Duolingo English Test
- What it is: A newer, fully online English proficiency test that evaluates reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. It uses AI technology to assess language ability.
- Country Preferences: Increasingly accepted by universities in the USA, Canada, and some other countries, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic for its remote test-taking convenience.
- Test Format: Fully online, taken from home with a laptop/desktop.
- Test Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
| Feature | IELTS | TOEFL | Duolingo English Test |
| Test Ownership | British Council, IDP, Cambridge English | ETS (Educational Testing Service) | Duolingo Inc. |
| Test Format | Paper-based & computer-delivered | Online internet-based only | Fully online, at-home |
| Test Duration | ~2 hours 45 minutes | ~3 hours | ~1 hour |
| Test Sections | Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking | Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing | Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening |
| Speaking Test Type | Face-to-face with examiner | Recorded responses | Recorded responses via computer |
| Scoring Scale | Band score 0-9 | Score 0-120 | Score 10-160 |
| Result Waiting Time | 5-7 days (computer), 13 days (paper) | Approx. 6 days | Within 48 hours |
| Test Fee in Bangladesh | ~24,000 BDT (May 2025) | ~24,000 BDT (May 2025) | ~10,000-12,000 BDT (May 2025) |
| Test Centers Availability | Multiple centers in Dhaka, Chattogram, Sylhet, Rajshahi | Limited centers mostly Dhaka & Chattogram | No test center; taken online from home |
| Accepted by Universities | UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, USA, Europe | USA, Canada, Australia, Europe, UK | Growing acceptance in USA, Canada, few others |
| Visa Acceptance | Widely accepted for immigration (UK, Australia, Canada) | Accepted by many countries for student visas | Limited acceptance for visas |
| Test Registration Process | Online or via centers | Online only | Online only |
| Test Flexibility | Scheduled fixed dates | Scheduled fixed dates | Flexible test scheduling any time |
| Test Accessibility | Requires going to test center | Requires going to test center | Can be done remotely from home |
| Preparation Resources | Widely available (books, courses, online) | Widely available (books, courses, online) | Online practice tests and videos |
Which Countries Prefer Which Tests? 🌍
| Country | Preferred Test(s) | Notes |
| USA | TOEFL (most popular), IELTS, Duolingo | TOEFL is widely accepted, but many US universities now accept IELTS and Duolingo. |
| UK | IELTS (most popular), TOEFL | IELTS is generally preferred for UK visa and admissions. |
| Canada | IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo | IELTS is very common, TOEFL accepted, Duolingo gaining acceptance. |
| Australia | IELTS (preferred), TOEFL | IELTS is generally preferred by universities and visa authorities. |
| New Zealand | IELTS (preferred), TOEFL | IELTS preferred for study and immigration. |
| Europe | IELTS, TOEFL | Depends on the country/university; many accept both IELTS and TOEFL. |
Test Center Availability in Bangladesh & Chattogram 📍
- IELTS has multiple test centers across Bangladesh, including the British Council and IDP offices in Dhaka and Chattogram. This makes it accessible for many students.
- TOEFL iBT is offered at selected test centers mainly in Dhaka and Chattogram. Availability might be limited compared to IELTS.
- Duolingo English Test is an at-home online test, so students anywhere in Bangladesh, including remote areas, can take it without traveling.
Professional Guidance for Bangladeshi Students 🎓
Preparing for these English tests requires focused practice and understanding of the exam pattern.
- In Dhaka, there are many coaching centers and institutes offering IELTS and TOEFL preparation courses.
- In Chattogram, professional guidance is also available for IELTS and TOEFL preparation to help students prepare effectively through classroom or online coaching.
- For the Duolingo English Test, since the format is newer and self-paced, many students opt for self-study using online resources and official practice tests.
Which Test Should You Choose? 🤔
- Choose IELTS if: You are applying to UK, Australia, New Zealand, or Canadian universities, or prefer a face-to-face speaking test. Also a good option for immigration purposes to these countries.
- Choose TOEFL if: You are aiming mostly for universities in the USA or Canada, prefer an online format, and want a test widely accepted by American universities.
- Choose Duolingo if: You need a quick, affordable, and fully online test option, especially if traveling to a test center is difficult. However, check university acceptance before registering.
Final Tips for Bangladeshi Students ✔️
- Check the specific English test requirements of the universities and countries you are applying to.
- Consider test availability and costs in your city.
- Prepare well with mock tests and study materials designed for your chosen test.
- Seek professional coaching if you need structured guidance, especially for IELTS and TOEFL.
- Take advantage of official practice materials and online resources to familiarize yourself with the test format.
Conclusion
Choosing the right English test depends on your academic goals, target country, and personal preferences. IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo all have their unique advantages and limitations. For students in Bangladesh and Chattogram, IELTS remains highly popular due to test center availability and acceptance in multiple countries. TOEFL is preferred for US-bound students, and Duolingo offers a convenient option for flexible test-taking.
Understanding these differences and planning accordingly will help you maximize your chances of success and open doors to global education opportunities.