Universities That Accept the Duolingo English Test

The Duolingo English Test (DET) has rapidly become one of the most popular English proficiency exams for international students. Compared to traditional tests such as IELTS and TOEFL, the Duolingo English Test is more affordable, faster, and can be taken entirely online from home. As a result, thousands of universities around the world now accept DET scores as part of their admissions requirements.

If you are planning to study abroad, understanding which universities accept the Duolingo English Test can help you expand your options and simplify the application process. In this guide, we will explore how widely the test is accepted, which universities recognize it, score requirements, and how to choose schools that match your DET score.

What Is the Duolingo English Test?

The Duolingo English Test is an online English proficiency exam designed for international students who want to study in English-speaking universities.

Unlike traditional exams that require travel to a test center, the Duolingo English Test can be taken from home using a computer with a camera, microphone, and stable internet connection.

The exam evaluates several language skills, including:

• Reading

• Writing

• Listening

• Speaking

The test typically takes about one hour to complete, and results are usually available within 48 hours. Scores range from 10 to 160, and many universities use these scores as proof of English proficiency.

One of the biggest reasons for the growing popularity of the test is its convenience and accessibility.

Why Universities Accept the Duolingo English Test

Many universities initially adopted the Duolingo English Test during the COVID-19 pandemic when in-person testing was difficult. However, even after testing centers reopened, institutions continued accepting DET because of its effectiveness and accessibility.

There are several reasons universities recognize this test.

Accessibility for International Students

Traditional English exams can be difficult to schedule in some countries. Testing centers may be limited or located far away from students.

The Duolingo English Test removes these barriers by allowing students to take the test from home.

Faster Score Reporting

Duolingo test results are typically available within two days, which helps students meet application deadlines more easily.

Lower Cost

The Duolingo English Test usually costs significantly less than IELTS or TOEFL. This makes it a practical option for students applying to multiple universities.

Modern Adaptive Testing Technology

The test uses adaptive technology, meaning the difficulty of questions changes depending on how the student performs. This approach allows the exam to measure language ability efficiently.

Because of these advantages, many universities have added DET to their list of accepted English proficiency tests.

How Many Universities Accept the Duolingo English Test?

Today, over 4,000 universities and institutions worldwide accept the Duolingo English Test as proof of English proficiency.

These institutions are located in many countries, including:

• United States

• Canada

• United Kingdom

• Australia

• Ireland

• New Zealand

• Germany

• Japan

• Netherlands

• Singapore

Acceptance continues to grow each year as universities recognize the reliability and convenience of the test.

However, requirements may vary depending on the university, program, or degree level.

Universities in the United States That Accept the Duolingo English Test

The United States is one of the largest destinations for international students, and many American universities now accept DET scores.

Here are some well-known universities in the United States that recognize the Duolingo English Test.

New York University (NYU)

New York University accepts Duolingo English Test scores for many undergraduate and graduate programs.

Typical score requirement:
120 or higher

NYU is one of the most globally diverse universities and welcomes thousands of international students each year.

Columbia University (select programs)

Some programs at Columbia University accept the Duolingo English Test as an alternative to IELTS or TOEFL.

Typical score requirement:
120–130

Applicants should always check the specific department requirements.

University of Arizona

The University of Arizona fully accepts the Duolingo English Test for undergraduate admission.

Typical score requirement:
105–110

This university is known for welcoming international applicants and providing strong student support services.

University of Colorado Boulder

The University of Colorado Boulder accepts DET scores for undergraduate programs.

Typical score requirement:
120

Northeastern University

Northeastern University also recognizes the Duolingo English Test for many academic programs.

Typical score requirement:
120

These universities represent just a small portion of American institutions that accept the test.

Universities in Canada That Accept the Duolingo English Test

Canada is another major destination for international students due to its high-quality education and immigration opportunities.

Many Canadian universities accept DET scores.

University of Toronto

The University of Toronto accepts the Duolingo English Test for several programs.

Typical score requirement:
120

University of British Columbia (UBC)

UBC allows the Duolingo English Test as proof of English proficiency for many applicants.

Typical score requirement:
125

McGill University

McGill University also accepts DET scores.

Typical score requirement:
125

York University

York University recognizes the Duolingo English Test for international admissions.

Typical score requirement:
115–120

Students applying to Canadian universities should always confirm score requirements for their specific faculty or department.

Universities in the United Kingdom That Accept the Duolingo English Test

Many universities in the United Kingdom now accept the Duolingo English Test, although some programs may still require IELTS.

University of Bristol

The University of Bristol accepts the Duolingo English Test for several courses.

Typical score requirement:
120–130

University of Birmingham

This university recognizes DET scores for international applicants.

Typical score requirement:
120

University of Glasgow

The University of Glasgow accepts Duolingo English Test results for certain programs.

Typical score requirement:
115–125

University of Southampton

Another UK university accepting DET scores.

Typical score requirement:
120

Because policies change frequently, applicants should check official admission pages for the most accurate information.

Universities in Australia That Accept the Duolingo English Test

Australia has traditionally relied on IELTS, but more universities are now accepting the Duolingo English Test.

Examples include:

University of Adelaide

Typical score requirement:
110–115

University of Technology Sydney

Typical score requirement:
115

Macquarie University

Typical score requirement:
110–120

However, some professional programs such as medicine, nursing, or law may still require IELTS or TOEFL.

Duolingo English Test Score Requirements

Score requirements vary widely depending on the university and program level.

Here is a general guideline for interpreting DET scores.

90–100

• Some foundation programs

• Pathway programs

• Certain community colleges

105–115

• Many undergraduate programs

• Some universities with moderate English requirements

120–125

• Competitive universities

• Most major undergraduate programs

130–140+

• Highly selective universities

• Graduate programs

Students should aim for 120 or higher if they want the widest range of university options.

How to Send Your Duolingo English Test Scores

One major advantage of the Duolingo English Test is the ability to send scores to universities for free.

After receiving your results, you can log into your Duolingo account and select institutions to receive your scores.

Unlike other tests, there is no limit on the number of universities you can send scores to.

This feature allows students to apply to multiple universities without paying additional fees.

Tips for Choosing Universities That Accept DET

If you plan to apply using your Duolingo English Test score, there are several strategies to consider.

Check Official University Websites

Always confirm acceptance on the university’s official admissions page.

Policies may change depending on the program or academic year.

Compare Score Requirements

Some universities have minimum requirements, while others may expect higher scores for competitive programs.

Look for Program-Specific Requirements

Graduate schools, medical programs, or law schools may require different English proficiency tests.

Consider Backup Options

Although DET acceptance is increasing, some universities still prefer IELTS or TOEFL.

Applying to multiple institutions helps reduce risk.

Future of the Duolingo English Test in University Admissions

The Duolingo English Test continues to grow in popularity worldwide. Universities appreciate the flexibility, security features, and modern testing system used by the platform.

As more institutions adopt digital admissions processes, it is likely that acceptance of the Duolingo English Test will continue expanding.

For international students, this means more accessible pathways to studying abroad.

With lower costs, faster results, and increasing global recognition, the Duolingo English Test has become an important option for demonstrating English proficiency.

Conclusion

The Duolingo English Test is now accepted by thousands of universities around the world, including many top institutions in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

Its convenience, affordability, and quick results make it an attractive option for international students preparing to study abroad.

However, each university and program may have different requirements, so it is essential to verify score thresholds and accepted tests before applying.

If you plan to use the Duolingo English Test for university admission, aim for a score of 120 or higher to maximize your opportunities and access a wider range of institutions.

With careful preparation and research, the Duolingo English Test can be a powerful tool to help you achieve your academic goals abroad.