Can You Take the Duolingo English Test for Free?

Hi Teacher Luke here 👋

This is one of the most frequently asked questions about the Duolingo English Test, so let's not waste any time and jump straight into it.

Can I get a Duolingo Test Fee Waiver Code?

The answer to this question is a conditional "maybe." It really depends on the university you're applying to. From what I understand, Duolingo itself does not offer fee waivers directly to students. However, the institutions you're applying to might have some provisions, so reaching out to them is essential. While there's no surefire guarantee, if the $59 test fee is a hurdle for you, it's definitely worth exploring your options.

How Can You Find Out?

There are essentially two main strategies for uncovering whether you can get a fee waiver for the Duolingo English Test:

1. Quick Google Search: Simply type the name of your university followed by "English proficiency waiver request" into Google. This is how you can quickly find if there's a form or contact email available, like the one provided by the University of Boston.

2. University Website Navigation: If a Google search doesn't yield the necessary information, your next best bet is to comb through the university's official website. What you're looking for are the contact details of either the admissions office or the International Students Office. Given the variability in website designs, this might require some patience, but it's crucial for finding the right point of contact.

What To Write Your Email?

Now, what should you include in your email to the university? Below, I've provided a template that you can use as a base for your inquiry ready for you to copy and paste. However, customization is key—make sure to add any specific details the university might need, such as a reference number or a student application number. This ensures that the admissions team can easily identify who you are.

Email Template (Asking to get a wavier for the DET)

"Dear [Admissions Department/International Office/Contact Person’s Name],

As I prepare my application for [UNIVERSITY], I plan to complete the Duolingo English Test to meet the English language proficiency requirement. Coming from a low-income background, I am seeking opportunities to obtain a fee waiver for this examination.

I am reaching out to ask if [UNIVERSITY] provides fee waivers for the Duolingo English Test for aspiring international students. If available, I would like to know the required steps to apply for this waiver.

Any assistance or additional information on this topic would be highly appreciated.

Kind regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your application reference number, if applicable]"

Additional Considerations

It's important to note that even if your waiver request is approved, it may take a few weeks for the waiver to be processed. Therefore, make sure you start this process well in advance of your test date. If you're in a rush, you might be better off paying the fee yourself. For the lucky ones who receive a waiver, expect an email from Duolingo with a special link or code, or perhaps direct instructions from your university on how to take the test without incurring the fee.

Conclusion

Although there's no guarantee that you can take the Duolingo English Test for free, exploring the possibility is certainly advisable, especially for those who find the fee prohibitive. I hope this post helps you navigate your options more effectively. If you've enjoyed this new series where I answer your questions about the Duolingo English Test, please let me know in the comments. And, of course, if you have any questions, feel free to leave them below, and I'll do my best to address them in an upcoming video.

That's all for today! If you're new to the Duolingo English Test, I highly recommend watching the next video, which offers an introduction to the various question types on the exam. See you there!

Teacher Luke

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