What to Do If Your Duolingo English Test Isn’t Certified (And How to Fix It)

Finding out that your Duolingo English Test (DET) wasn’t certified was both confusing and frustrating. Since the test has strict guidelines to ensure fairness, even small mistakes can lead to it being flagged. Here are some common reasons why this might happen:

• Looking away from the screen: You must stay focused on the screen throughout the test. Frequent or prolonged glances away can be flagged.
• Not being alone in the room: The DET requires a quiet, isolated environment. If someone enters the room, your test may be invalidated.
• Communication with someone else: Whispering, nodding, or any non-verbal communication can lead to disqualification.
• Presence of external materials: Phones, notes, textbooks, or reference materials cannot be in your testing space.
• Using memorized responses: Pre-prepared or overly rehearsed answers can be flagged by the system.

Pro Tip: Stick to the rules! Even an innocent violation, like checking your phone or glancing away too often, can lead to test invalidation.

What Happens If My Duolingo Test Is Uncertified?

If your test is flagged, Duolingo will send an email explaining the reason. Depending on the issue, you may have two options:

1. Retake the test: If your account remains active, you can retake the exam within 21 days of your original purchase date.
2. Account restriction: If your account is blocked, you won’t be able to retake the test. This usually happens for serious violations like receiving assistance or using multiple accounts.

How to Avoid Test Invalidation in the Future

To ensure your test is certified, follow these key guidelines:

✅ Keep your eyes on the screen – Avoid prolonged glances away. If you need to think, do so while maintaining eye contact with the screen.

✅ Close all other programs – Shut down unnecessary applications before starting the test.

✅ Avoid interruptions – Notify everyone in your household that you need a distraction-free environment. Even minor disruptions can lead to invalidation.

✅ Speak and write naturally – Avoid using pre-memorized responses. The test assesses your ability to use English spontaneously.

Simplify Your Duolingo English Test Prep with These Essential Template Guides

How to Appeal an Invalid Test Result

If you believe your test was unfairly invalidated, you can file an appeal within 72 hours of receiving the invalidation notice. Follow these steps:

1. Log in to your Duolingo English Test account.
2. Go to "My Tests" and find the invalidated test.
3. Click "Appeal This Result."
4. Fill out the appeal form with a clear explanation of why you believe the invalidation was incorrect.
5. Submit the appeal. The button will change to "Appeal Submitted."

Duolingo will review your case, and you’ll receive a decision within four business days. You can only submit one appeal per test, and all appeal decisions are final.

Note: Appeals are not allowed for technical issues. In such cases, you’ll need to take the test again.

Conclusion

Understanding why the Duolingo English Test can be invalidated is crucial to avoiding problems. By following the rules carefully and practicing in a controlled environment, you can minimize the risk of your test being flagged. If your test is invalidated, act quickly—appeal within 72 hours or plan your retake accordingly.

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