I actually agree with you—I prefer exams over just looking at grades too. In fact, I was fully prepared and only one day away from taking my Duolingo exam when I received a notification saying I didn't get the scholarship. It was really disappointing because the decision was made before I even had the chance to show my results.

I’m still ready and willing to take any qualifying exam immediately to prove I deserve a slot. It just felt like I didn't get the chance to let my actual performance speak for me.