How the Duolingo English Test Proctors Your Exam—Everything You Need to Know

Is the Duolingo English Test Proctored? Absolutely! But not in the way you might expect. Instead of a live human watching you take the test in real time, DET uses a recorded proctoring system, blending AI detection with multiple human reviewers to ensure fairness and security.

This article will break down exactly how DET proctoring works, what you need to know before taking the test, and why this system makes the exam both secure and flexible.

1. What is Proctoring?

Proctoring means someone monitors your test to ensure rules are followed. In traditional settings, this would be a teacher watching over a classroom.

For the DET, proctoring has gone fully digital. Instead of a person watching you live, your entire test session is recorded and reviewed by multiple proctors after you finish.

Why This Matters

• No scheduling needed – Take the test anytime, without booking a proctor.
• No human bias – Your test is reviewed anonymously by multiple trained proctors.
• Extra security – If any issue arises, your session can be reviewed multiple times.

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2. AI + Human Review: The Perfect Balance

Many assume AI does all the proctoring, but that’s not true. AI assists in flagging potential issues, but humans always make the final decision on whether a test is valid.

How It Works

1️⃣ AI Monitors Your Session in Real Time

• Detects suspicious movements (looking away from the screen too often).
• Flags unexpected sounds (talking, background noise).
• Checks for identity mismatches (ensuring your face matches your ID).

2️⃣ Human Proctors Review Your Test

• Every test is reviewed by multiple trained proctors at different levels.
• AI flags potential issues, but a human always makes the final call.
• The proctors don’t know who you are, ensuring an unbiased review.

3. Multi-Tier Proctoring System for Accuracy

Your test isn’t reviewed by just one person. The DET has three levels of proctors who check your exam before your score is approved.

• Tier 1: Proctors trained in test security review ID verification and general compliance.
• Tier 2: Experts in English language proficiency evaluate writing and speaking responses.
• Tier 3: Senior proctors handle complex cases, like suspected violations or appeals.

This multi-layered approach ensures that no mistakes are made and that every test is assessed fairly.

4. Recorded Sessions Ensure Transparency

Unlike live proctoring, where a mistake could go unnoticed, the DET records everything. This means:

• Your test can be reviewed multiple times if needed.
• No room for human error—if one proctor misses something, another can catch it.
• Your test remains on file, providing an extra layer of security.

What This Means for You

✅ Peace of mind – Your test won’t be unfairly invalidated.
✅ Proof of fairness – If an issue arises, DET has a full record of your test.
✅ No scheduling hassle – Take the test at any time, knowing it’s securely recorded.

5. No Two Tests Are the Same

Each DET session is unique, meaning you won’t get the same questions as someone else. This eliminates cheating and ensures fairness.

For example:

• You might be asked to describe a photo, while another test-taker might get a listening prompt.
• The question pool is massive, making it nearly impossible to predict or share answers.

This adaptive test design ensures that everyone is evaluated fairly based on their own abilities.

6. How the Rasch Model Ensures a Fair Score

The DET scoring system is based on the Rasch Model, a widely accepted method in language proficiency testing.

How It Works

• Each question has a difficulty rating—harder questions contribute more to your score.
• Your responses determine the next question’s difficulty, ensuring an accurate measurement of skill.
• Your final score is based on overall performance, not just how many questions you got "right" or "wrong."

Why This Matters

✔️ You can’t just memorize answers—you have to show real English proficiency.
✔️ Your score reflects your true ability, not just lucky guessing.
✔️ Universities trust DET results because the scoring model is backed by research.

7. Anonymity Eliminates Bias

In many traditional tests, proctors might subconsciously favor certain test-takers based on their background. Not in the DET.

• Proctors don’t know who you are.
• You don’t know who reviews your test.
• Every test is reviewed objectively, with no personal bias.

This ensures a completely fair evaluation, no matter where you’re from or what your background is.

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8. The DET Balances Flexibility & Security

One of the biggest advantages of the DET is you can take it anytime, anywhere. But that doesn’t mean security is compromised.

Before you start the test, make sure to:
✅ Use a laptop or desktop (phones & tablets are not allowed).
✅ Ensure your face is fully visible (good lighting, no head coverings).
✅ Sit in a quiet, private room with no background noise.
✅ Do not look away from the screen—AI detects unusual movement.
✅ Do not use external devices—headphones, extra screens, or notes will invalidate your test.

9. What Happens if You Break a Rule?

🔹 Minor Violations – (e.g., looking away too often)

• AI might flag it, but human proctors review the footage to determine if it was unintentional.
• If no cheating is found, your test is validated.

🔹 Serious Violations – (e.g., using a phone, speaking to someone)

• Your test is invalidated and you may be banned from retaking the exam.

10. Final Thoughts: A Secure & Fair Exam

The Duolingo English Test’s proctoring system is one of the most advanced in online testing. By combining:
✅ AI monitoring for speed and efficiency
✅ Human proctors for fairness and accuracy
✅ A multi-tiered review process
✅ Anonymity to eliminate bias
✅ Rasch Model scoring for a truly adaptive test

…it ensures a secure, reliable, and fair testing experience for all users.

📌 Ready to take the test? Make sure you understand the rules, follow the guidelines, and take advantage of DET Study’s expert preparation resources!