Taking the Duolingo English Test (DET) can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially when you encounter unexpected technical issues during the exam. While Duolingo has built a robust system to minimize disruptions, candidates still sometimes face challenges such as internet disconnection, frozen screens, audio/video malfunction, or browser crashes.
In this article, we’ll explore how to effectively manage technical glitches during the DET, how to report them, what recovery steps are available, and the common mistakes to avoid that can cost you your test or invalidate your results.
The Duolingo English Test (DET) is an online English language proficiency test used by universities and institutions across the globe. Unlike traditional tests, DET is entirely computer-based and can be taken from the comfort of your home, provided you have the necessary technical setup.
Because the test is conducted online with automated and human proctoring, any technical glitch can interfere with the test flow or violate its security protocols.
Before we jump into solutions, let’s take a look at the typical technical problems students have faced:
Internet disconnection or lag
Audio/microphone not working
Video not displaying or freezing
Camera or system permissions not granted
Test crashing midway or browser error
System freezing or battery failure
Unexpected power outages
These issues can either delay your test, invalidate your test results, or lead to rejection from Duolingo if they detect any suspicious behavior.
Panicking during a glitch may make things worse. The DET is designed with some fault tolerance, so even if something goes wrong, it doesn’t always mean your test is canceled.
Take a deep breath and assess the issue. Ask yourself:
Is it a device problem?
Is the internet working?
Is it a minor lag or a full crash?
If you lose connection, the DET may pause temporarily. Try to:
Reconnect to your Wi-Fi
Use a mobile hotspot as backup
Avoid switching networks unless absolutely necessary
Tip: Use an Ethernet cable if possible for a more stable connection.
Unless the system has completely crashed or frozen, do not refresh, exit, or restart your browser. Doing so might be seen as a violation of test rules. Let the system attempt to recover first.
Duolingo offers limited technical support during the test, especially through pre-test checks and post-test submission channels. If the glitch happens during test setup or upload, you can use their help section to report the issue.
Take screenshots of any error messages
Note the exact time and question type during which the issue occurred
Save any logs if applicable
This will help when you contact Duolingo’s support team later.
If the glitch was minor (like a 2-second freeze), complete the test. Duolingo's AI might still process the test normally. However, if you suspect that the integrity of the test was compromised, avoid submitting and report the issue immediately.
If your test experience was seriously affected:
Go to the Duolingo Help Center
Click on “Submit a request”
Choose “Test Day Issues” and attach any screenshots or evidence
Explain your issue clearly
Duolingo may allow a free retake if your issue was legitimate and unavoidable.
Before the test day, follow these steps to reduce the chances of glitches:
Close all unnecessary programs and background apps
Ensure all permissions (camera, mic, storage) are granted
Run the Duolingo system check tool
Use a laptop or desktop with updated OS and antivirus disabled
Charge your laptop or keep it plugged in
Sit in a quiet, well-lit room with no interruptions
You can find more about operating systems and web browsers on Wikipedia to understand the technical requirements better.
Here are the most common mistakes students make during a glitch that can cost them their test:
Unless absolutely necessary, restarting is a red flag for Duolingo’s proctoring system and might invalidate your test.
During a glitch, many candidates say things like “What happened?” or “It’s not working” out loud. This can be flagged as external communication.
Do not use your mobile to troubleshoot, even to check your internet. Any use of a second device is a potential test violation.
Failing to inform Duolingo after facing a genuine technical issue means you lose the chance of a free retest. Always report any problem, even minor ones.
Testing in places with frequent power cuts, low internet speed, or background noise increases the chance of glitches and violations.
After you submit a support ticket to Duolingo:
They typically respond within 2–3 business days
Your test may be put under review
If valid, you might be offered a free retake voucher
In some cases, they may not allow a retest if the glitch appears to be from your side or suspicious behavior is detected.
Technical glitches can happen to anyone during the Duolingo English Test, but staying prepared and knowing how to respond is key. With the right mindset and preventive measures, you can avoid common pitfalls and even recover from a bad situation.
Always remember:
Prepare your environment
Stay calm during issues
Report everything
Avoid actions that can be misinterpreted
Technology isn’t perfect, but your response to a glitch can make all the difference in securing your test results.
Also Read:
Tips for Managing Anxiety During the Duolingo Test
Duolingo Read and Complete Task: Format & Sample Question With Answer To Score High