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General standardized tests
Choosing the right standardized test for college admissions can be a crucial step in your academic journey. Both the SAT and ACT are widely accepted by colleges and universities across the United States, but they offer different formats, content, and testing experiences. Understanding the key differences and the specific strengths of each test can help you decide which one aligns best with your skills and college aspirations.
T | TOEFL | Duolingo English Test | IELTS |
|---|---|---|---|
Format | Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing | Adaptive reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing | Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing |
Duration | ~3 hours | ~1 hour | ~2 hours 45 minutes |
Cost | $180 - $250 | $50 | $215 - $250 |
Scoring Range | 0 - 120 | 10 - 160 | 1 - 9 |
Acceptance | 11 000+ universities worldwide | 3000+ universities worldwide, but accepted by most US schools | 10 000+ universities worldwide |
Official Tutoring Services | ETS offers official preparation materials, practice tests, sample questions, online courses | Duolingo offers free practice tests and sample questions on their website | British Council and IDP offer official preparation materials, practice tests, sample questions, online courses |
Test Centers | At home or at a TOEFL testing center | Only at home on own device | IELTS testing centers |
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