Duolingo Accepted Universities in Germany in 2026

The Duolingo English Test is fast becoming the go-to alternative to IELTS and TOEFL, and German universities are leading the way. Germany now hosts over 458,000 international students, making it the third most popular study destination globally (DAAD, 2024). For Indian students, several Duolingo accepted universities in Germany now recognise the Duolingo English Test (DET) for 2026 admissions.

The Duolingo English Test offers a flexible and affordable way to prove English proficiency. It costs USD 70 (around ₹5,880) and can be taken from home using a laptop and webcam. Many universities in Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, and North Rhine-Westphalia now accept DET scores for English-taught programs.

Acceptance policies may differ across courses, so applicants should always check each university’s official requirements. Read on to explore the full list of Duolingo accepted universities in Germany, along with their latest scores, fees, and eligibility for 2025–26.

Key Highlights

Looking for Duolingo accepted universities in Germany? Mentioned below is a summary of everything covered in this blog.

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Did you know that Germany is ranked ninth globally for quality of life according to the US News World Report? With top-class universities and a high quality of life, it's no surprise that Germany is a top choice for international students.

While many universities in Germany require IELTS or TOEFL scores from non-English-speaking students to assess their English proficiency, there are top-notch institutions that also recognise DET scores as part of the application process.

The average Duolingo score accepted by universities in Germany is 105 out of 160. However, specific score requirements may vary among universities.

Here is a list of universities that accept Duolingo test in Germany:

Source: QS World University Rankings 2026

Note: Duolingo permits you to send your scores to unlimited colleges at no extra cost!

Now that you know the minimum Duolingo score requirement at top universities in Germany, read on to explore the popular courses offered at these universities and their average tuition fees.

Several leading German universities now accept the Duolingo English Test for 2026 admissions. Here are five top institutions that recognise Duolingo scores for selected English-taught programmes.

Founded in 1386, Heidelberg University is Germany’s oldest and one of its most prestigious research universities. With over 30% of students from abroad, it provides an excellent setting for global learning. Its broad range of interdisciplinary master’s programmes makes it an ideal destination for Indian students.

Duolingo English Test (DET) Accepted:

Heidelberg University accepts the Duolingo English Test as proof of English proficiency for select English-taught master’s programs. This provides a convenient, affordable alternative to IELTS or TOEFL for students applying from India.

Here are the course and fee details for the top Duolingo accepted universities in Germany for masters.

Founded in 1948, Freie Universität Berlin stands among Germany’s top universities, known for its international environment and emphasis on academic freedom. Its campus in Dahlem offers a peaceful study setting with a vibrant student life in Berlin.

Duolingo English Test (DET) Accepted:

Freie Universität Berlin accepts DET scores for select postgraduate and research programmes taught in English, making it a practical option for students who prefer an online test with fast results.

Here are the course and fee details for the top Duolingo accepted universities in Germany for masters.

Established in 1810, Humboldt University is known as the model for modern universities worldwide. It combines rigorous research with academic excellence, hosting more than 34,000 students, including over 6,000 international learners. Its philosophy, law, and medical faculties are among the most prestigious in Europe.

Duolingo English Test (DET) Accepted:

Humboldt University accepts the Duolingo English Test for selected English-taught master’s programmes. Students can use their DET scores to meet English proficiency requirements instead of IELTS or TOEFL.

Here are the course and fee details for the top Duolingo accepted universities in Germany for masters.

The University of Münster offers over 120 degree programmes and 15 faculties, making it one of Germany’s largest universities. Known for its welcoming environment and high research standards, it attracts a growing number of international students.

Duolingo English Test (DET) Accepted:

The University of Münster recognises Duolingo scores for admission to certain English-taught postgraduate programmes. This provides flexible testing options for Indian applicants who may not have access to traditional exam centres.

Here are the course and fee details for the top Duolingo accepted universities in Germany for masters.

Located beside Lake Constance, the University of Konstanz promotes interdisciplinary study and small-group learning. With a strong emphasis on innovation and research, it is an excellent option for international students pursuing science and social science degrees.

Duolingo English Test (DET) Accepted:

The University of Konstanz accepts Duolingo scores for certain English-taught master’s courses. This simplifies the application process for Indian students applying from overseas.

Here are the course and fee details for the top Duolingo accepted universities in Germany for masters.

Did you know that Germany is ranked 9th globally for quality of life according to the US News World Report? It's no surprise that thousands of students from around the world, including India, choose Germany to enhance their educational journey.

However, admission to universities and colleges in Germany usually requires proof of English proficiency, generally demonstrated through tests such as the IELTS. However, pursuing higher education in Germany without the IELTS is possible by using the Duolingo English Test.

Here are the key details on how to take the Duolingo English Test (DET) at home.

More than 50 programs in Germany accept the Duolingo English Test (DET) as proof of English proficiency, allowing you to pursue your studies without the need for IELTS or TOEFL scores.

However, applying through Duolingo requires careful steps to ensure your scores are accepted and verified correctly. Below is the Duolingo-focused admission process for the 2026 intake.

Here is a breakdown of the admission process.

1. Shortlist Duolingo-Accepting Universities
   Use official university websites or the Duolingo portal to confirm whether your chosen German programme accepts the DET.
2. Check the Minimum Score Requirement
   Most universities require an overall DET score between 105 and 120 for English-taught master’s programmes.
3. Register and Take the Duolingo English Test

• Fee: USD 70 (≈ €65 or ₹6,000)
• Duration: About 1 hour
• Result: Available within 2 days

1. Send Scores Directly to Universities
   After receiving results, log in to your Duolingo account and send the official score report to each university (free of charge).
2. Submit Application Online
   Apply directly through the university portal or Uni-Assist. Upload your DET score report along with academic documents.
3. Await Admission Decision
   Universities evaluate both academic performance and language proficiency before sending an offer letter.
4. Apply for Student Visa
   Use your admission letter, proof of funds, and DET score (if accepted by your university) for your visa application.
   Visa Fee: €75 (≈ ₹7,688 at €1 = ₹102.51)
5. Complete Enrollment
   After arrival, register with the university, pay your semester fee, and submit final documents.

Each university may have different document requirements depending on the specific course or program. For the most accurate and detailed information, it's advisable to check the official university websites.

Tip for Indian Students:

Universities differ in how they recognise the Duolingo English Test, so always confirm on the official admissions page before applying. Taking the test early and sending your score directly through Duolingo ensures faster processing and avoids missing deadlines.

The Duolingo English Test provides a convenient alternative to IELTS, TOEFL, and SAT for international students seeking to meet English proficiency requirements. This English test assesses your reading, writing, speaking, and listening proficiency.

The primary purpose of the Duolingo English Test in Germany is to confirm English proficiency for academic institutions. The results are also applicable to job interviews and applicant verification.

You can take the Duolingo English Test at your convenience from anywhere you choose. It allows you to take the test online without the need to travel to a test centre or schedule an appointment. The best part? You can take multiple mock tests before appearing for the actual exam.

The test takes only about one hour to complete, and results are available within 48 hours. This is much faster than IELTS or TOEFL, which typically take 4–7 days for results. The quick turnaround helps students applying close to university deadlines.

Accepted by more than 5,500 universities worldwide, including over 50 in Germany, the DET costs only USD 70 (≈ €65 or ₹6,663). This makes it one of the most cost-effective English proficiency tests. Students can also send their scores to an unlimited number of universities at no additional cost.

For Indian students planning to study in Germany, understanding the Duolingo English Test (DET) score equivalent to IELTS helps you gauge where you stand in terms of English proficiency.

Most German universities accepting Duolingo list their minimum DET requirements between 100 and 120, which roughly aligns with an IELTS band of 6 to 6.5.

Here is a score comparison chart to help you understand Duolingo English Test scores equivalent to IELTS scores.

Key Notes for Students

• DET 105–115 equals IELTS 6.0, the usual minimum for English-taught master’s programs in Germany.
• Top universities like Heidelberg or Freie Universität Berlin often prefer DET 120+ ( IELTS 6.5–7.0).
• Always confirm the minimum DET score on the official university website before applying.

Germany’s low 2.8% unemployment rate compared to Canada’s 6.6% and India’s 8.5% reflects its strong job market and academic return on investment. To make the most of these opportunities, aim for a Duolingo English Test (DET) score between 100 and 120, which is ideal for admission to most German universities accepting DET in 2026.

Here are quick tips for Indian students aiming for a 100–120 Duolingo score, the typical range accepted by most German universities for 2026 admissions.

The DET measures reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Focus extra practice on the Production subscore (writing and speaking tasks), as it carries significant weight in university evaluations.

Use the entire response time to express complete, well-structured ideas. Check for grammar, clarity, and vocabulary range before submission.

For Interactive Reading and Listening questions, practise identifying main ideas and small differences between similar options. Careful attention prevents avoidable errors.

Take full-length mock tests in a quiet space using the official Duolingo platform. Simulating real exam timing helps improve focus, consistency, and confidence.

Note: Most universities in Germany consider DET 100–120 equivalent to IELTS 6.0–6.5, which meets the entry criteria for most English-taught master’s programs.

When preparing for the Duolingo English Test (DET), choosing the right resources is crucial to achieving your desired score. With the DET's increasing acceptance in German universities, many students are turning to books specifically designed to help them understand the test format.

Here are some highly recommended books that adhere to these principles and can help you improve your DET scores.

In addition to books, use official Duolingo practice tests available on englishtest.duolingo.com to familiarise yourself with adaptive question patterns. Combine reading, writing, and listening practice daily for consistent improvement.

As of 2025 winter semester, 49,483 Indian students enrolled in German universities, making them the largest group of international students in the country. This is a 15.1% increase from the previous year.

With its unique blend of academic excellence and cultural richness, Germany is an ideal destination for higher education for Indian students. The best part? The DET offers a convenient pathway for Indian students to fulfil English proficiency requirements.

Want to study in Germany with expert guidance? Talk to Leap Scholar’s experts today and get step-by-step support for university selection, SOP review, and visa guidance.