Empowering Japan’s English Teachers: Duolingo and MEXT Launch a Nationwide Partnership
Quality education begins with great teachers — and now, Japan’s educators are getting a new way to grow, connect, and lead the next generation of global learners.
In a groundbreaking collaboration, Duolingo has partnered with Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) to bring the Duolingo English Test (DET) directly to English teachers across the nation — at a remarkable 75% discount.
For just $17 USD, elementary, junior-high, and high-school English teachers in Japan can now access a world-class English proficiency test that’s flexible, affordable, and completely online. 🌍💻
🌸 A New Chapter in Japan’s English Education
English education has always been a cornerstone of Japan’s connection to the world.
From bustling classrooms in Tokyo to quiet schoolhouses in Hokkaido, teachers have long carried the responsibility of opening doors for their students — helping them think globally and communicate confidently.
Yet, while teachers pour their energy into guiding students, opportunities to develop their own English proficiency have often been limited by cost, distance, and testing schedules.
That’s where this new initiative changes everything.
By joining MEXT’s national program for English teacher development, Duolingo is helping educators certify and strengthen their skills — on their own terms.
“This initiative gives every teacher, no matter where they live, the chance to measure their English ability easily and affordably,” said a Duolingo representative at the Tokyo launch.
💡 Why the Duolingo English Test?
Unlike traditional exams that require in-person attendance, the Duolingo English Test is a modern, AI-driven assessment recognized by over 6,000 universities and institutions worldwide.
Teachers can take it anytime, anywhere, using just a computer and a reliable internet connection.
In less than an hour, they receive a certified, globally accepted score, reflecting real-world English communication skills — including speaking, writing, listening, and reading.
This flexibility makes the DET a natural fit for Japan’s teachers, who often juggle packed schedules and large classes but remain deeply committed to professional growth.
🌍 Who Takes the Duolingo English Test—and For What Purpose?
🎓 Launching the Partnership in Tokyo
The partnership was officially unveiled during the Duolingo English Test Leadership Seminar, held in Tokyo on September 25, 2025.
More than 80 university representatives, educational leaders, and senior Duolingo executives came together to discuss one central idea:
“Empower the teachers, and you transform the students.”
The seminar served as both a launch event and a vision-setting moment — marking the beginning of Duolingo’s deeper collaboration with Japanese universities and education stakeholders.
The atmosphere was filled with optimism and energy.
From discussions about AI in language learning to fairness in assessment, the event reflected Japan’s growing commitment to global communication and accessible learning opportunities.
🌏 Shared Vision, Shared Future
This initiative is about more than testing — it’s about trusting educators with the tools they deserve.
There’s no cap on how many teachers can participate, and MEXT and Duolingo are encouraging all eligible educators to take advantage of the program.
By making world-class testing available to those shaping the next generation, Duolingo and MEXT are investing directly in the heart of education — the teachers themselves.
“When we support teachers, we strengthen classrooms, communities, and the future of education itself,” noted one MEXT spokesperson.
🌱 Looking Ahead: Building Bridges Through Language
As Japan continues to modernize its English education, this collaboration represents a shift toward empowerment over evaluation — helping teachers learn, grow, and lead through technology and connection.
Every test taken by a teacher is more than just a score — it’s a step toward better lessons, more confident students, and a stronger global community.
💚 Learn, Prepare, and Inspire with DET Study
If you’re an educator, student, or lifelong learner ready to take the Duolingo English Test, DET Study can help you succeed with confidence.
✨ What You’ll Get:
- Full access to AI-based DET practice questions
- Speaking and writing feedback that mirrors real DET scoring
- Strategy guides for every question type
- 60-day VIP access to premium study materials
🎁 Bonus: Save 10% instantly on your official Duolingo English Test when you sign up at detstudy.com.
Let’s build a world where learning English isn’t a privilege — it’s a pathway to opportunity. 🌏💬