The Duolingo English Test (DET) is becoming the smart choice for Indian students wanting to study in Canada. It’s an English proficiency test that is much easier to take, highly affordable (about USD 70 / INR 6,206) , and super quick, delivering results within just 48 hours. Currently, there are over 400 Duolingo accepted universities in Canada. This guide gives you the latest, most important information for the 2026 intake, including the exact Duolingo score you need for top Canadian universities and a major, positive update on using your DET score for your Canada study visa.
Why Duolingo is the Smarter Choice for Canada?
Choosing the DET is convenient and cost-effective, which is great if you’re managing tight timelines and finances. The fact that many Duolingo accepted universities in Canada are top-tier schools makes it a strategic choice.
- Take it at Home: You can take the entire test online from your own room in about 60 minutes. No need to travel to a physical test center.
- Super Fast Results: You get your official score in just 48 hours. This speed helps you meet urgent university application deadlines for Duolingo accepted universities in Canada.
- Low Cost: The test is highly affordable at only about USD 65 (around INR 5,764), which is much cheaper than IELTS (around CAD 340) or TOEFL (around CAD 300).
- It Works for Your Visa: The best news is a recent change in Canadian visa rules means your DET score is now generally accepted for your study permit.
What Duolingo Score Do You Need for Canadian Universities?
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The score you need depends on the university type. We’ve split the Duolingo accepted universities in Canada into tiers:
Tier 1: Top Research Universities (Aim for 125+)
These are Canada’s most famous and competitive Duolingo accepted universities in Canada (like U of T, UBC, and McGill). They need a high level of English:
| University | Recommended DET Score | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto (U of T) | 125–130 | Score of 120 required in the Production section (writing and speaking) after July 2024. |
| UBC, McGill | 125 or higher | Aim for this minimum to be competitive. |
| University of Waterloo | 120–125 | Highly competitive, especially for Engineering. |
| McMaster University | 120–125 | Higher scores needed for competitive Master’s programs. |
Tip: To be safe and maximize your chances with Duolingo accepted universities in Canada, target an overall score of 125 or above.
Tier 2 & 3: Great Public Universities and Colleges (95-120)
These popular Duolingo accepted universities in Canada and colleges offer a wide variety of academic and career-focused programs. They often provide more accessible entry pathways.
| Institution Category | Example Universities/Colleges | Typical Minimum DET Score | Notes for Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 2: Mid-Tier Public Universities | Dalhousie University, Queen's University, Simon Fraser University, York University, University of Calgary | 110–125 | Excellent options for Master's programs outside of the top-ranked Tier 1 group. |
| Tier 2: Comprehensive Universities | Carleton University, Concordia University, University of Alberta, University of Saskatchewan | 110–120 | Score often varies by faculty; check specific program requirements. |
| Tier 3: Colleges & Polytechnics | Seneca College, Humber College, George Brown College, Fanshawe College, Algoma University | 105–115 | Ideal for Diploma, Advanced Diploma, and career-focused PG Certificates. |
| Pathways/Foundation Courses | Yorkville University, Niagara College | 95–105 | May require additional language support or pathway programs. |
Visa Process for Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada
Does choosing the DET instead of IELTS affect my Canadian study permit application? The direct answer is no. Since the restrictive SDS stream was terminated, choosing the DET does not negatively impact your visa acceptance chances, as long as your university grants admission.
This is the most critical piece of information for you:
- SDS Stream is Gone: The Canadian government has permanently eliminated the Student Direct Stream (SDS). This stream previously forced students to take IELTS, even if their university was one of the Duolingo accepted universities in Canada.
- The New Process: Everyone now applies through the regular study permit stream. This route relies on the university's acceptance to prove your English skills.
- Your LOA is Key: If your university (a DLI) accepts your Duolingo score and gives you a Letter of Acceptance (LOA), this letter is typically enough proof of English ability for the visa application process.
| Test | Works for University Admission? | Works for Canadian Study Permit? | Works for Future Permanent Residency (PR)? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duolingo (DET) | Yes, widely accepted by Duolingo accepted universities in Canada | YES (The LOA is the proof) | NO |
| IELTS Academic | Yes, widely accepted | YES (The LOA is the proof) | NO (Need IELTS General Training for PR) |
Future PR Planning: If you hope to settle in Canada later for Permanent Residency, remember that you must plan to take the IELTS General Training or CELPIP, because the DET is not accepted for PR applications.
Quick Tips for a Great DET Score
The DET is fast, but it’s tough if you're not ready. Follow these steps for success and securing your admission to Duolingo accepted universities in Canada:
- Focus on 'Production': Top universities care a lot about the Production score (how well you speak and write). Make sure your practice covers actual writing and speaking tasks to build balanced fluency.
- Use Free Practice Tests: Take the official practice test on the Duolingo website. It shows you the unique, adaptive format and helps you find your weak spots.
- Practice Speaking Fast: The test adapts quickly. Practice answering the speaking questions without long pauses to keep the pace up.
- Check Your Tech: Because you take the test at home, ensure your internet connection is stable and your microphone/webcam works perfectly before starting. Technical failures can lead to invalid results.
Conclusion:
Universities accepting the Duolingo English Test in Canada assess your skills through your score, video interview, and writing sample to gauge academic readiness.
You can register on the official Duolingo website, take the test from home, and send results directly to universities. It costs USD 65 (around INR 5,610 or CAD 89), with up to three attempts allowed in 30 days.
LeapScholar helps students identify the best Duolingo accepted colleges in Canada and plan successful applications. With over 400 universities recognizing the test, it remains a convenient and affordable option for 2026 admissions.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
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Is the Duolingo English Test valid for Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada?
No, it is not. The DET is strictly for academic and initial visa applications. If you plan to apply for Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) in the future, you must write and pass an approved immigration test like the IELTS General Training or CELPIP General.
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Which major universities in Canada accept the Duolingo English Test?
Over 400 institutions accept the DET. The list includes highly-ranked Duolingo accepted universities in Canada such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, University of British Columbia (UBC), and the University of Waterloo.
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Can I get a Canada student visa with Duolingo?
Yes, you can, indirectly. Since the old SDS rule is gone, if your chosen university (DLI) accepts your Duolingo score and gives you a Letter of Acceptance (LOA), that LOA is generally enough proof of English skills for your study permit application.
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Is a 110 Duolingo score accepted in Canada?
Yes. A score of 110 is accepted by many public colleges and mid-tier Duolingo accepted universities in Canada, including places like Algoma University and Thompson Rivers University. However, for the most competitive Master's degrees, you should aim for 120 or higher.
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