SAT, IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo? Best Exam to Take After 12th for Global Admission

Studying abroad has become an exciting and popular choice for students after completing their 12th grade. Whether it's for pursuing undergraduate degrees or short-term courses, international education offers students global exposure, diverse learning experiences, and better career opportunities. However, before packing your bags and preparing for life in another country, you need to navigate the maze of standardized exams required by universities worldwide. Among the various entrance exams, SAT, IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo English Test are some of the most common tests that students take for their study-abroad journey. But which one is the best for you? This article will break down the details of these exams, their requirements, and how to choose the right one based on your goals.

What is SAT, IELTS, TOEFL, and Duolingo?

Each of these exams has a unique purpose and serves different aspects of your study-abroad journey.

SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)

The SAT is a standardized test widely accepted for undergraduate admissions in the United States. It assesses a student's readiness for college by measuring their skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. The SAT is critical for securing admission into top colleges and universities in the U.S. It is primarily used for college admissions but can also help secure scholarships.

SAT Sections:

• Reading: Tests reading comprehension and critical thinking.
• Writing and Language: Tests grammar and usage.
• Math: Assesses algebra, geometry, and basic trigonometry.
• Essay (Optional): Measures writing and analytical skills (though now optional in many colleges).

IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

The IELTS is an English proficiency test accepted worldwide by more than 10,000 organizations, including universities, colleges, and employers. It’s widely used for students planning to study in English-speaking countries like the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

IELTS Test Sections:

• Listening: Tests the ability to understand spoken English.
• Reading: Assesses reading comprehension through different types of texts.
• Writing: Includes tasks like writing essays, reports, and short letters.
• Speaking: Involves a face-to-face interview with an examiner.

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

The TOEFL is another popular English proficiency exam required by universities in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States. Like IELTS, it measures reading, listening, speaking, and writing abilities in English.

TOEFL Test Sections:

• Reading: Includes questions based on passages.
• Listening: Assesses the ability to understand spoken English.
• Speaking: Students must record their spoken answers to questions.
• Writing: Includes essays and tasks based on reading and listening comprehension.

Duolingo English Test

The Duolingo English Test is a newer, more accessible English proficiency test that has grown in popularity due to its affordability and convenience. It's accepted by various universities around the world, although not as widely as IELTS and TOEFL. Duolingo is an online test that can be taken at home and is designed to assess students' overall proficiency in English.

Duolingo Test Sections:

• Vocabulary: Assesses word knowledge and usage.
• Grammar: Tests grammatical understanding and sentence construction.
• Speaking: Involves answering questions by recording spoken responses.
• Reading and Listening: Comprehension and understanding of text and audio.

How to Choose the Best Exam After 12th?

Deciding on the right exam depends on several factors such as your study destination, the course you want to pursue, and the universities you are targeting. Here's how you can evaluate your options:

1. Type of Course and University Requirements

• SAT: If you’re looking to study in the United States, the SAT is essential for admission to most undergraduate programs, particularly in highly competitive universities like Ivy League schools. Many U.S. institutions also accept SAT Subject Tests to demonstrate proficiency in specific academic subjects.
• IELTS and TOEFL: Both of these tests are widely accepted by universities in the United States, Canada, Australia, the UK, and New Zealand. They focus on English language proficiency, which is required to prove that you can handle the academic workload in English.
• Duolingo: Duolingo is an emerging option for students applying to universities that accept it. While it is not as widely recognized as IELTS or TOEFL, it is a valid option for certain programs, particularly for short-term courses or universities with relaxed admission policies.

2. Focus: Academic Abilities vs. English Proficiency

• SAT: This exam focuses more on assessing your academic skills, including problem-solving, reading comprehension, and mathematical abilities, making it ideal for students applying to competitive undergraduate programs in the U.S. It may also be required in other countries that follow a similar curriculum.
• IELTS and TOEFL: These are strictly English language proficiency tests, so they focus on assessing your ability to understand and communicate effectively in English. Both are important for students planning to study in English-speaking countries.
• Duolingo: While it tests your general English proficiency, it is typically seen as a more accessible option for students who need a quick and affordable alternative to traditional English proficiency exams like IELTS and TOEFL.

3. Cost and Accessibility

• SAT: The cost of the SAT varies, but it’s typically around $50 to $100 USD depending on whether you take the test with or without the essay. It also requires you to travel to a test centre to take the exam.
• IELTS and TOEFL: Both IELTS and TOEFL can cost anywhere between $200 to $250 USD. You will also need to book a test centre and may face waiting times to get your desired test date.
• Duolingo: The Duolingo test is far more affordable and can be taken at home for a fee of $49 USD. You get your results in just 48 hours, and there’s no need to travel to a test centre.

4. Availability and Flexibility

• SAT: The SAT is offered on specific dates throughout the year, generally in the fall and spring. You need to register in advance and plan your schedule accordingly.
• IELTS and TOEFL: Both IELTS and TOEFL are available year-round, with multiple test dates available each month, giving you more flexibility in choosing the date and location.
• Duolingo: Duolingo’s test is completely online, and you can take it anytime, as long as you have access to a computer with a webcam and microphone. The results are also quick and available within two days.

5. Acceptance by Universities

• SAT: Most U.S. colleges require the SAT as part of their admission process, although some schools may accept ACT scores as well. However, there are a growing number of test-optional schools, where SAT scores may not be required.
• IELTS and TOEFL: Both IELTS and TOEFL are accepted by a majority of international universities in English-speaking countries, such as the U.S., the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
• Duolingo: Duolingo is increasingly accepted by a growing number of universities, especially in the U.S. and Canada, though it is not as widely accepted as IELTS or TOEFL. It’s most beneficial for students applying to less competitive universities or those with specific English language requirements.
• Pros and Cons of Each Exam

Pros of SAT

• Comprehensive assessment of academic abilities.
• Accepted by top U.S. colleges.
• Good for students who want to pursue a competitive academic career.

Cons of SAT

• Focuses heavily on academic abilities, not English proficiency.
• Expensive and requires travel to test centres.
• Limited availability.

Pros of IELTS

• Globally recognized for university admissions.
• Accepted by most English-speaking countries.
• Includes a speaking test with a personal interaction.

Cons of IELTS

• Expensive compared to other tests.
• Requires travel to test centres.
• Limited retake options in case of low scores.

Pros of TOEFL

• Widely accepted in the U.S. and other English-speaking countries.
• Test centres available globally.
• Results are available quickly.

Cons of TOEFL

• More expensive than Duolingo.
• Requires physical test centres.
• Sometimes perceived as harder compared to Duolingo.

Pros of Duolingo

• Affordable and convenient.
• Completely online, available anytime.
• Quick results (within 48 hours).

Cons of Duolingo

• Not accepted by all universities.
• Limited recognition compared to IELTS or TOEFL.
• Less thorough than IELTS or TOEFL in evaluating language skills.

Conclusion

The decision on which exam to take after 12th depends on your goals, your study destination, and your strengths. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

• Take the SAT if you're applying to undergraduate programs in the United States, particularly competitive universities.
• Take IELTS or TOEFL if you want to study in an English-speaking country like the UK, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand, and need to prove your English proficiency.
• Take Duolingo if you need an affordable, convenient, and accessible option to demonstrate English proficiency, especially for less competitive programs or universities that accept this test.

Choosing the right exam will help you not only with your admissions process but also with your overall experience abroad. Make sure to research the specific requirements of the universities and countries you are interested in before making your decision.

FAQ’s

What is the SAT exam and who should take it?

The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is a standardized test primarily for students applying to undergraduate programs in the United States. It measures reading, writing, and mathematical skills. If you’re planning to study in the U.S., especially at competitive colleges, taking the SAT is often required. It is also helpful if you're seeking scholarships and financial aid.

How is the SAT different from IELTS and TOEFL?

The SAT focuses on assessing academic abilities in subjects like reading, writing, and mathematics, while IELTS and TOEFL are English proficiency tests. IELTS and TOEFL specifically evaluate your ability to communicate in English, which is essential for studying in English-speaking countries. If you're applying to a U.S. university, you might need the SAT for academic assessment and IELTS or TOEFL for language proficiency.

What is the IELTS exam, and when should I take it?

The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) exam is used to measure your English proficiency for studying in English-speaking countries such as the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. If you're planning to study in any of these countries, especially for undergraduate or postgraduate programs, you'll likely need to take the IELTS.

What is the Duolingo English Test and who should take it?

The Duolingo English Test is an affordable and flexible English proficiency test accepted by several universities, especially in the U.S. and Canada. It can be taken online from home, making it an accessible option. If you're looking for a quick and inexpensive alternative to IELTS and TOEFL, and your university accepts it, Duolingo can be a good choice.

How long do I need to prepare for each exam?

• SAT: Preparation typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on your current level and target score.
• IELTS and TOEFL: Preparation for these exams usually takes 2 to 3 months to improve your English language skills if needed.
• Duolingo: Duolingo is more accessible, and preparation can take anywhere from a few weeks to a month, depending on your current proficiency level.

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