What happens during the DET test-day flow?
The app guides you through setup, identity and room checks, the adaptive test, shareable samples, and upload.
| Stage | What happens | Prepare |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Setup | Sign in and check devices, network, and permissions | Accepted ID, computer, phone, stable internet |
| 2. Identity and room | Record ID and scan the room and computer area | Clear the desk and remove extra displays and readable material |
| 3. Adaptive test | Reading, listening, writing, and speaking tasks alternate | Know the current tasks; use no paper or other programs |
| 4. Samples | Complete writing and speaking samples | Keep following room, phone, and gaze rules |
| 5. Upload | Send recordings and responses for review | Keep the connection stable and watch your account and email |
Where should I check the latest DET rules?
Device support, phone placement, and scan steps can change. Use this checklist for preparation, but follow the account, test app, and official help center on test day.
- Do not copy an old setup video without checking the current policy.
- Do not install unofficial test-assistance software.
- When practice advice conflicts with official rules, follow the official rule.
Why might a DET result be uncertified?
Technical failure is only one possibility. Background software, room contents, phone recording, input assistance, and test behavior can also matter.
| Area | Common problem | Pre-test check |
|---|---|---|
| Computer | Browser, messaging, remote control, or writing tools remain active | Restart and check the menu bar, system tray, and processes |
| Room | Paper, another device, display, or readable text remains | Inspect the full space from both camera views |
| Phone | Screen or keyboard is not continuously visible | Secure the phone, connect power, and simulate typing |
| Face and ears | Eyes, mouth, ears, or image quality are obscured | Record and review a short sample and complete each app scan |
| Input | Prediction, autocorrect, grammar, or text expansion is active | Type in standard English for five minutes |
| Conduct | Looking away, reading aloud, typing during speech, or reading a script | Rehearse the expected action for each task family |
What computer and network do I need for the DET?
Use a currently supported computer and operating system. Test the same device, network, and room before the real session.
| Item | Action | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and OS | Check official support and open the DET desktop app early | Unsupported system, virtual machine, last-minute update |
| Camera, microphone, speakers | Test permissions in the OS and app | Browser works but the desktop app lacks access |
| Network | Use a stable connection; disable VPN or proxy | Corporate or campus filtering, switching connections |
| Power | Connect the computer and phone or fully charge them | Sleep mode or interrupted phone recording |
| Other software | Close browsers, chat, sync, remote control, recording, and writing tools | Notifications, shortcuts, or background processes |
Where should I place my phone for the DET?
The phone records the test; it is not a second response device. Its view must continuously include the computer screen and keyboard.
- Open the DET desktop app, use the phone camera to scan its QR code, and allow the requested camera and orientation access.
- Follow the phone browser setup; do not substitute a video call, third-party QR scanner, or separate recording.
- Place the phone securely to the side and slightly behind you so it captures the entire screen and keyboard.
- Connect power, turn on Do Not Disturb, and prevent notifications from interrupting recording.
- Remove other phones, smartwatches, and extra displays from the room.
How do the room and ear scans work?
Follow the phone setup flow: record a clear 360-degree view, then show the full keyboard and the area behind the screen.
| Area | Confirm | Remove or avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Desk | Only approved test equipment remains | Paper, books, pens, headphones, second devices |
| Walls and surroundings | No readable notes or prompts | Whiteboard text, notes, annotated posters |
| Room | Private and quiet for the full test | People entering, television, voice devices |
| Computer area | Screen, keyboard, and surroundings are visible | Extra displays, obstructions, glare |
Complete the ear scan exactly as the DET desktop app directs. Remove headphones, earbuds, glasses, and clip-on or magnetic earrings, and keep the eyes, mouth, and ears visible.
What lighting and camera setup does the DET require?
The camera image must show your eyes, mouth, and face clearly throughout the session.
- Use front or side-front lighting; avoid a bright window behind you.
- Keep your full face in the computer camera frame.
- Move hair away from the eyes, mouth, and ears, and check glasses glare.
- Record 30 seconds of normal typing and speaking, then review it.
Can I look at the keyboard, and which writing tools are prohibited?
You may look at the keyboard while typing. Before the test, disable prediction, autocorrect, grammar rewriting, AI writing, text expansion, and other input assistance.
| Task | Expected behavior | High-risk behavior |
|---|---|---|
| Writing or dictation | Move naturally between screen and keyboard | Look elsewhere for an extended period |
| Reading or listening | Stay quiet and work on screen | Read prompts aloud or repeatedly turn away |
| Speaking | Organize and answer the prompt naturally | Type, read a script, or use outside material |
| If stuck | Pause briefly and continue simply | Look away, then deliver a memorized unrelated answer |
What should I do before and during the DET?
Complete the setup early so you do not change devices or settings after the session starts.
| When | Checklist |
|---|---|
| 24 hours before | Review current rules and ID; update the desktop app; test the phone QR flow; clear the room and set the phone stand |
| 30 minutes before | Restart; close background tools and notifications; connect power; lock the room; check lighting and English input |
| During the test | Follow the current task; keep equipment fixed; look only within the test area; answer speaking prompts without notes |
What should I do after an uncertified DET result?
Read the reason in your account and email before deciding to appeal or correct the setup and retest. Not every invalid result is appealable.
- Check whether the result page shows Appeal This Result.
- If eligible, submit within 72 hours of the notification; each invalid result can be appealed once.
- Describe verifiable facts about the time, device, room, and behavior.
- DET says appeal decisions normally arrive by account email within four business days.
- Technical problems use a different support path; retest eligibility depends on the result and remaining attempts.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I place the DET phone camera?
Scan the QR code shown by the DET desktop app, then follow the phone browser setup and place the phone securely so it continuously records the entire computer screen and keyboard.
Can I look at the keyboard during the DET?
Yes, while typing. Extended attention away from the screen and keyboard area, or typing during speaking, can create problems.
How long do I have to appeal an uncertified result?
When eligible, the Appeal This Result button is available for 72 hours after notification, and an invalid result can be appealed once.
Can I use autocorrect or grammar checking on the DET?
No. Disable predictive text, autocorrect, grammar rewriting, AI writing, and third-party input assistance before the test.
Official sources and verification note
This guide supports study and preparation; it does not replace official Duolingo English Test policy. Recheck the official pages before your test.
- Test Policies, Rules, and RequirementsOfficial overview of test environment, equipment, and conduct.
- Using Your Phone to Record Your ComputerCurrent phone setup, framing, and continuous-recording requirements.
- Using Your Phone to Scan Your RoomRoom and computer-area scan instructions.
- Looking at the Keyboard While TypingOfficial distinction between normal typing and looking away.
- Predictive Text and Writing AssistantsRestrictions on input and writing-assistance software.
- How Can I Appeal My Results?Eligibility, 72-hour deadline, one-appeal rule, and processing time.