Online English Tests Could Help Cut 98% of Carbon Emissions

A new report suggests that switching from traditional English tests at physical centres to online formats could significantly reduce carbon emissions by as much as 98%. The study was conducted by the International Education Sustainability Group (IESG) in collaboration with Duolingo, the maker of the Duolingo English Test.

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Travel Is the Main Source of Emissions

One of the main reasons for high emissions in current testing systems is travel. According to the report, students travel an average of 175 kilometers to reach test centers. In the UK alone, around 500,000 English tests are taken every year for university admissions. This results in more than 11,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e) being released into the atmosphere annually.

In comparison, online tests like the Duolingo English Test produce only 0.16 kilograms of CO₂e per test. This small amount mainly comes from the electricity used by the student’s device during the exam.

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Accessibility and Inclusion Benefits

Apart from the environmental impact, online testing could help improve accessibility for students living in remote areas or those with limited mobility. These students often face additional costs and difficulties when trying to reach testing locations. Moving to an online system could make the process easier and more fair.

Concerns About Security Remain

Despite the benefits, some concerns remain particularly around test security, identity verification, and standardization. However, many test providers, including Duolingo, have implemented AI monitoring, ID checks, and human proctors to ensure test fairness.

This report arrives at a time when the international education sector is under pressure to reduce its environmental footprint. Universities and education providers may need to consider how digital tools, like online exams, can help achieve net-zero goals while also supporting diversity and inclusion in the admissions process.

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In related discussions, some institutions are also looking at social media vetting as part of student screening and application processes. While not directly connected to carbon emissions, this trend shows how technology is increasingly reshaping how universities assess and interact with students.

As more universities focus on climate-friendly practices, online language testing may soon become the new standard not only for its green benefits but also for its wider accessibility and convenience.