The growing acceptance of the Duolingo English Test by American institutions has transformed the admission landscape for international students. With over 3,000 universities and colleges now willing to accept this innovative test as proof of English proficiency, students have more flexible ways to fulfil language requirements and pursue their dreams of studying in the United States.
This guide details everything you need to know about Duolingo-accepted universities in the USA, eligibility requirements, minimum scores, and how DET compares to traditional exams – all supported by up-to-date facts and expert references.
Understanding the Duolingo English Test (DET)
The Duolingo English Test (DET) is an internet-based language proficiency test evaluating four core aspects: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The test is known for its accessibility and affordability, allowing students to complete it online from anywhere, usually for less than $70, with results furnished within 48 hours.
Key Features:
- Scores range from 10 to 160
- Accepted by over 5,500 institutions worldwide, including more than 3,000 in the US
- Used for both undergraduate and postgraduate admissions
- Results delivered quickly, which suits tight application deadlines
- Adaptive format, meaning question difficulty changes based on your answers
Thanks to these advantages, the number of universities in the USA accepting Duolingo continues to grow, giving non-native English speakers broader access to higher education.
Benefits Of Taking A Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test (DET) offers several key benefits that make it a popular and smart choice for students planning to study abroad in 2025:
- Convenience: The test is entirely online and can be taken from home at any time, eliminating the need to travel to test centres and making it accessible to students worldwide.
- Affordability: With a fee of around $59 (approximately ₹6,000 in India), DET is significantly cheaper than alternatives like IELTS or TOEFL, helping reduce the overall cost of studying abroad.
- Speedy Results: Test takers receive official scores within 48 hours, facilitating quick application processes and meeting tight admission deadlines.
- Wide Acceptance: Over 5,000 universities across the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Europe recognise Duolingo scores, including many top-ranked and exclusive institutions.
- Free Score Sending: Unlike other English proficiency tests, Duolingo allows unlimited free sending of score reports to multiple universities, saving additional costs.
- Short Test Duration: The DET lasts about 60 minutes, much shorter than other exams, which can take several hours, reducing fatigue and stress.
- Adaptive and Comprehensive Testing: The test adjusts question difficulty in real-time and assesses reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills with AI-based scoring for accuracy.
- Flexible Scheduling: Students can schedule the test at their convenience with no fixed exam dates, accommodating busy or unpredictable schedules.
Also read: Duolingo English Test 2025: Important Dates, Test Fees and More
Who Accepts the Duolingo English Test in the USA?
As of 2025, more than 3,100 universities and colleges are part of the Duolingo accepted universities in the USA network. This includes some of the most prestigious institutions, as well as many public and private schools keen to attract international talent.
Ivy League and Top Private Universities
Many elite institutions have started recognising DET for certain courses or departments. Here are some notable examples:
| University Name | Typical Minimum DET Score | Undergraduate/Graduate |
| Harvard University | 120–125 | Graduate (selected programs) |
| Yale University | 120–130 | Undergrad & Graduate |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 120 | Undergrad |
| Princeton University | 125 | PhD/MSE only |
| Cornell University | 120–130 | Undergrad & Graduate |
| Brown University | 130 | Undergrad |
| Columbia University | 135 | Undergrad |
| University of Pennsylvania | 130 | Undergrad |
| Duke University | 130 | Undergrad & Graduate |
| Johns Hopkins University | 120 | Undergrad & selected graduate |
| New York University (NYU) | 125 | Undergrad & Selected Graduate |
| Stanford University | Not specified | Undergrad |
Scores and requirements can vary by department. Always confirm with each university before submitting your application.
Leading Public and State Universities
Alongside the Ivy League, an impressive range of state institutions have also emerged as Duolingo English Test-accepted universities in the USA:
| University Name | Typical Minimum DET Score | Level |
| University of California, Berkeley | 115 | Undergrad & Graduate |
| University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) | 130 | Undergrad |
| University of Michigan | 110–115 | Undergrad & Graduate |
| University of Texas at Austin | 105–115 | Undergrad & Graduate |
| Purdue University | 95–110 | Undergrad & Graduate |
| Arizona State University | 95 | Undergrad |
| University of Florida | 95–110 | Undergrad |
| University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | 115 | Graduate |
| University of Washington | 105–125 | Undergrad & Graduate |
| University of Cincinnati | 110 | Undergrad |
| Georgia State University | 100–110 | Undergrad |
| Indiana University Bloomington | 115 | Undergrad & Graduate |
| University of Wisconsin–Madison | 120 | Graduate |
Minimum Duolingo Score Requirements Across US Universities
The minimum DET score for universities accepting Duolingo in the USA varies by institution and, in some cases, by department or degree level. However, clear general trends have started to emerge:
| DET Score Range | Universities/Program Examples |
| 90–100 | Arizona StateUniversity of West FloridaSan Jose StateUniversity of Massachusetts DartmouthIowa StatePurdue University (UG) |
| 100–110 | Northeastern UniversitySoutheastern UniversityUniversity of UtahUniversity of CincinnatiKent State University |
| 110–120 | UC BerkeleyIndiana UniversityRice UniversityWashington UniversityUniversity of KentuckyCarnegie Mellon (some programs) |
| 120+ | YaleMITColumbiaBrownHarvard (Graduate)Johns HopkinsNYUDukeCornellUCLAPrinceton (Program-specific) |
- STEM Courses and Business Schools: Tend to require higher scores (115–130+)
- Humanities/Social Sciences: May set scores in the 100–120 range
- Graduate Programmes: Often have higher minimums than undergraduate ones.
How to Find Duolingo Score Accepted Universities in the USA?
- Duolingo’s Official Search Tool: Use the test’s official website to browse by country, course, and degree level.
- University Admissions Pages: Always check the most up-to-date policy on DET acceptance, as universities often revise their requirements.
- Study Abroad Portals: Reliable education platforms and counselling services publish regularly updated lists of universities in the USA that accept Duolingo.
Application and Eligibility: What Do Universities Accepting Duolingo Require?
Applying to Duolingo-accepted universities in the USA involves more than just submitting an English proficiency test score. Admissions teams assess your holistic academic and personal profile, ensuring that you’re well-suited for their programmes.
Key Requirements for Admission
- Minimum Duolingo English Test (DET) Score:
Required DET scores vary by university and programme. Top-ranking Duolingo scores accepted by universities in the USA typically range from 120–130, while others accept scores as low as 90–100, especially for less competitive or pathway options.
- Academic Transcripts:
Official records of your previous education, typically translated into English and demonstrating completion of required schooling or degrees.
- Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose:
A document detailing your academic interests, goals, and reasons for choosing your specific course and university. This statement helps universities evaluate your motivation and suitability.
- Letters of Recommendation:
References from teachers, professors, or employers highlighting your academic abilities, achievements, and character.
- Subject Prerequisites or Work Experience:
For some specialised or graduate programmes, you may need to show prior study in relevant subjects or professional work experience.
- Conditional Admission:
If your DET score is just below the threshold, some universities in the USA that accept Duolingo may offer conditional admission. You would start with extra English language support courses and must demonstrate improvement to continue.
- Supplementary Documents (when applicable):
Depending on the course and institution, you may also be required to submit a CV/resume, research proposal, or portfolio (primarily for art/design).
Also read: What Is A Better English Test? IELTS Vs Duolingo
How To Prepare for the Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a flexible and convenient option for demonstrating English proficiency to Duolingo-accepted universities in the USA. Adequate preparation is vital to achieve your best score and maximise your chances of admission. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare effectively:
1. Understand the Test Structure
- Familiarise yourself with sections: The test includes reading, writing, listening, and speaking, with both integrated and adaptive tasks.
- Know the timing: The entire exam lasts about one hour, with each section blending seamlessly for a fast-paced experience.
- Practice the types of prompts: Expect fill-in-the-blank, dictation, short speaking, open-ended writing, reading comprehension, and image-based questions.
2. Use Official Practice Resources
- Take Free Practice Tests: Duolingo’s official website offers sample questions and a short practice test that simulates the real format.
- Review Sample Answers: Analysing model responses for speaking and writing helps you understand what high-scoring answers look like.
3. Build Core English Skills
- Read Regularly: Newspapers, academic articles, and books will improve reading comprehension and vocabulary.
- Listen and Watch in English: Engage with podcasts, lectures, news broadcasts, or TV shows to develop listening skills and natural phrasing.
- Practice Writing: Focus on clear, concise answers for short tasks, and try extended writing about familiar topics to build fluency.
- Enhance Speaking: Record yourself answering questions, practise describing images, and summarise readings aloud to strengthen speaking ability.
4. Practise Time Management
- Work Against the Clock: Many DET questions are timed, so train yourself to think, respond, and type quickly.
- Prioritise Clarity Over Quantity: The scoring rewards clear, accurate responses over long but unclear answers.
5. Improve Typing and Pronunciation
- Typing Speed and Accuracy: Regular typing practice helps you maintain your typing speed and accuracy during timed segments.
- Pronunciation Tools: Use speech recognition software or language apps to test your clarity and accent neutrality during speaking practice.
6. Simulate Test Conditions
- Test Environment: Practise in a quiet room with a computer, microphone, and webcam, just like on the actual exam day.
- Dress Appropriately: You’ll be recorded, so dress as you would for a formal interview to get used to the setting.
- Review Instructions: Carefully read all DET requirements about test setup and identity verification to avoid delays on test day.
7. Use Feedback to Improve
- Mock Tests: Take full-length practice tests and review scores and feedback to identify weak areas.
- Review Mistakes: Note repeated errors in grammar, pronunciation, or understanding, and target those areas in future practice.
8. Day Before and on Test Day
- Rest Well: Get a good night’s sleep for focus and alertness.
- Check Device and Internet: Ensure your computer, camera, microphone, and internet connection are reliable.
- Prepare Documents: Have your government-issued ID ready for verification.
Which Course Types Accept Duolingo in US Universities?
The Duolingo English Test (DET) has become an increasingly popular alternative for English proficiency among international applicants to US universities. Its acceptance spans a broad range of academic programmes, reflecting its rising credibility and convenience. Below is a detailed overview of the course types at US institutions where the Duolingo test is commonly accepted, along with important considerations to keep in mind.
Undergraduate Degrees
Most US universities now offer the DET as an alternative to IELTS or TOEFL for international undergraduate admissions. This includes a wide range of programmes across disciplines such as humanities, sciences, business, and engineering.
From large public universities to private and liberal arts colleges, undergraduate programmes increasingly list Duolingo as a valid proof of English proficiency.
Minimum accepted DET scores for undergraduate admission generally range from 90 to 120, depending on university prestige and programme competitiveness.
Postgraduate Degrees
DET acceptance is increasing among postgraduate programmes, especially in competitive fields such as business, engineering, computer science, and public health. However, score expectations tend to be higher than undergraduate levels.
Many top-ranking business schools and STEM departments accept Duolingo as part of their admission criteria.
Minimum accepted scores for graduate entry often begin around 110 and can rise to 130+ depending on programme rigor. Alongside the DET, graduate applications may require GRE/GMAT scores, prior work experience, and research proposals.
Certificate and Short-Term Programmes
Apart from degree-level courses, many US colleges and community colleges accept the Duolingo English Test for certificate, diploma, and short-term training programmes. Often more flexible, these institutions use DET scores for admissions into ESL, vocational, and certificate courses.
Short courses for career advancement, such as language improvement or technical skills, welcome DET results. Some offer pathway courses for students needing to improve academic English skills before enrolling in full degree programmes.
Choosing universities that accept the Duolingo English Test enhances flexibility in your application process and increases your options for study in the USA. Always verify programme-specific requirements and prepare to meet or exceed the minimum score standards to boost your chance of admission.
Looking for expert guidance throughout your study abroad journey? Explore UniScholars for personalised counselling, visa assistance, scholarship help, and hassle-free accommodation support – all in one place to make your dreams of studying abroad a reality!
Also read: Study In The USA Without IELTS: Universities, Process and More
FAQs
Q. Which US universities accept the Duolingo English Test?
Ans: Thousands of universities across the USA, including top public, private, and Ivy League institutions, now recognise Duolingo English Test scores for admissions.
Q. What is the minimum Duolingo score required by US universities?
Ans: Minimum DET scores usually range from 90 to 130, depending on the university and programme – always check specific admission requirements.
Q. Can Duolingo be used for both undergraduate and postgraduate applications?
Ans: Yes, many US universities accept Duolingo scores for undergraduate, graduate, and even certificate or short-term courses.
Q. Is the Duolingo English Test cheaper and faster than IELTS/TOEFL?
Ans: Yes. The DET costs about $65–$69, is fully online, and provides results within 48 hours – much quicker and more affordable than traditional tests.
Q. Does a Duolingo score guarantee university admission?
Ans: No. While a qualifying score meets the language requirement, admission also depends on your academic records, documents, and overall application strength.
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