Dreaming of studying in a culturally lively environment with an abundance of world-class universities? The Emerald Isle offers this and much more to Indian students.
According to the U.S News Best Countries ranking, Ireland is ranked 7th among the friendliest countries, making it a perfect choice for students like you looking for top-notch education and a warm, welcoming environment!
In its recently launched Global Citizens 2030, International Talent, and Innovation Strategy, the Irish government emphasises the crucial role of international learners in shaping the future. The aim is to increase the number of international students, researchers, and innovators by 10% by 2030, recognising them as future leaders.
That said, meeting English language proficiency requirements is essential for studying in Ireland. In 2021, the Duolingo English Test (DET) was permanently accepted as a minimum standard for Irish study visas. This makes it easier for aspiring Indian students to fulfil the English proficiency requirement at the top universities in Ireland and pursue their dreams of studying there.
If you’re considering pursuing higher education in Ireland, continue reading to learn about Duolingo-accepted universities in Ireland and other key information.
Key Highlights
Looking for Duolingo-accepted universities in Ireland? Mentioned below is a summary of everything covered in this blog.
| Particulars | Details |
| Top Duolingo Accepted Universities in Ireland | Trinity College Dublin University College Dublin University College Cork |
| Ideal Duolingo Score to Study in Ireland | 120 out of 160 with no section below 110 |
| Duolingo accepted universities in Ireland 2024 intake | Autumn Intake (September) Spring Intake (February) |
| Duolingo Test Result Duration | Within 2 days |
| Cost for Duolingo Test | INR 4,900 ($59) |
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Why Take a Duolingo Test to Study in Ireland?
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 proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. It is a computer-adaptive test that adjusts the difficulty of questions based on your responses as you progress through.
While the main purpose of the Duolingo English Test in Ireland is to confirm English proficiency for academic institutions, the results are applicable where proof of language skills is needed, such as job interviews and applicant verification. Keep reading to know some of the reasons you might choose to take the Duolingo English Test.
- Convenience: You can take the Duolingo exam 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.
- Quick Result: Finish your test in 1 hour and get your results within 2 days of completing the test. This is in contrast to the 4 to 5 days typically required for IELTS exams to announce their results.
- Affordability: Did you know that over 5,000 universities in the world accept Duolingo test results? The DET English tests cost INR 4,900 ($59). This is a fraction of the cost of other tests like IELTS. What’s more? You can send your scores to an unlimited number of institutions for free.
Top 5 Duolingo Accepted Universities in Ireland
Students planning to study in Ireland but missed the IELTS test can consider applying to universities in Ireland that accept the Duolingo English Test (DET). While many universities in Ireland 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 Ireland is 120 out of 160, with no section below 110. However, it is important to note that specific score requirements may vary among universities.
Here is a list of the leading Duolingo accepted universities in Ireland in 2024.
| Top University | Minimum Duolingo Score Requirement | QS World University Rankings 2025 |
| Trinity College Dublin | 120 with no section below 105 | 87 |
| University College Dublin | 120 with no section below 110 | 126 |
| University College Cork | 120 with no section below 110 | 273 |
| Dublin City University | 120 with no section below 110 | 421 |
| University of Limerick | 120 with no section below 110 | 421 |
Please note: Duolingo permits you to send your scores to an unlimited number of colleges at no extra cost!
Now that you know the minimum Duolingo score requirement at top universities in Ireland, read on to explore the popular courses offered at these universities along with their average tuition fees.
- Trinity College Dublin
Did you know: Covering 47 acres in Dublin’s city centre, Trinity College has a student body of 21,000, with 34% of students coming from outside the country. This indicates that the college warmly welcomes international students to join its diverse community.
Trinity College is a distinguished member of the League of 23 European Research Universities (LERU). It is renowned for its research-oriented and collaborative academic environment.
What’s more? Trinity is ranked within the top 100 worldwide in the broad subject areas of Arts & Humanities, Life Sciences & Medicine, and Social Sciences & Management.
Here are the details of the popular courses offered and how much money you will be paying as tuition fees in this university.
| Particulars | Details |
| Top Courses | History Law Accounting and Finance |
| Approximate Tuition Fees | INR 14L to INR 16L (€16K to €17K) |
- University College Dublin (UCD)
Did you know that University College Dublin is in the top 1% of institutions globally? It’s Ireland’s most globally engaged university, with over 38,000 students from 152 countries, including more than 5,000 students from international locations. This truly makes UCD a diverse and international academic institution.
Hear what one of the students at UCD has to say. It might just inspire you.
“I received offers from other fantastic universities, but I ultimately chose UCD due to the robust international programme, superlative sports facilities, and graduate employability rankings.” – GRAINNE POPEN, NORTH AMERICA, LAW WITH SOCIAL JUSTICE
Here are the details of the popular courses offered and how much money you will be paying as tuition fees in this university.
| Particulars | Details |
| Top Courses | Architecture Food and Nutrition Engineering |
| Approximate Tuition Fees | INR 20L to INR 26L to (€22K to €29K) |
- University College Cork (UCC)
University College Cork is renowned for its superior academic programs and the stunning beauty of its campus. The college has a long history of international student admissions with nearly 4,000 students from 104 countries.
The university offers 130 degree and professional programs through its four Colleges: Arts, Celtic Studies, and Social Sciences, Business and Law and Medicine and Health. What’s more? UCC also has representative offices in India.
Here are the details of the popular courses offered and how much money you will be paying as tuition fees at this university.
| Particulars | Details |
| Top Courses | Nursing Law Agriculture and Forestry |
| Approximate Tuition Fees | INR 15L to INR 50L (€17K to €55K) |
- Dublin City University (DCU)
Dublin City University is one of the top Duolingo accepted universities in Ireland 2024 for postgraduate programmes. The university attracts students from 135 different nationalities, reflecting its world-class research and state-of-the-art learning facilities.
What’s more? DCU takes pride in being recognised as one of the world’s leading young universities. This is purely a testament to its dedication to excellence in education and innovation.
Here are the details of the popular courses offered and how much money you will be paying as tuition fees in this university.
| Particulars | Details |
| Top Courses | Accounting and Finance Humanities Science and Health |
| Approximate Tuition Fees | INR 13L to INR 16L (€15K to €18K) |
- University of Limerick (UL)
The University of Limerick hosts 1,955 international students from over 107 countries. The campus showcases state-of-the-art facilities and was honoured with the Best Use of Educational Technology/ICT Initiative of the Year at the Education in Ireland Awards 2023.
When you choose UL, you’re selecting the best for employability and language support in Ireland. The college assists international students like you across various programs including undergraduate, postgraduate, study abroad, Erasmus+, exchange, or summer school programs.
Here are the details of the popular courses offered and how much money you will be paying as tuition fees in this university.
| Particulars | Details |
| Top Courses | Humanities and Social SciencesArtsEngineering |
| Approximate Tuition Fees | INR 9L to INR 19L (€11 to €21) |
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Study in Ireland Without IELTS with the Duolingo English Test
Did you know that the number of Indian students in Ireland has increased tenfold in the past decade? In 2013, there were around 700 Indian students, a number that has surged to over 7,000 by 2023, with projections nearing 10,000 soon.
Undoubtedly, Ireland is a popular choice among Indian students seeking higher education. However, admission to universities and colleges in Ireland usually requires proof of English proficiency, which is generally demonstrated through a standardised test such as the IELTS. However, as you now know, it is possible to pursue higher education in Ireland without the IELTS by using the Duolingo English Test.
Read to learn how to take the Duolingo English Test (DET) at home, including understanding the test format, preparing for it, and going through the actual test process.
- Familiarise yourself with the test format, which includes 14 different types of questions covering listening, reading, writing, and speaking sections.
- Take a 30-minute mock test on the Duolingo website to understand the format and assess your current level.
- Ensure your testing environment is suitable: well-lit, free from noise and distractions, and with a stable internet connection.
- Sign up for an official account on Duolingo’s official test website.
- Purchase the Duolingo English Test by clicking on the “Buy Now” button after signing up.
- Once purchased, you have up to 21 days to take the test.
- Scores on the Duolingo English Test are reported on a scale from 10 to 160.
Ireland stands out in 2024 as an exceptional destination for studying for Indian students. If you are seeking comprehensive guidance on studying in Ireland, turn to LeapScholar. Our counsellors boast over 50 years of experience in helping student’s journeys abroad. Schedule your counselling session today and make your leap towards a brighter future studying in Ireland.
Understanding Duolingo Scores in Comparison to IELTS
Understanding how Duolingo scores compare to IELTS scores can help you assess your English proficiency more effectively. This knowledge is valuable for Indian students planning to study in Ireland.
Here is a score comparison chart to help you understand Duolingo English Test scores equivalent equivalence to IELTS scores.
| IELTS Academic | DET |
| 8.5 to 9 | 160 |
| 8 | 150 to 155 |
| 7.5 | 140 to 145 |
| 7 | 130 to 135 |
| 6.5 | 120 to 125 |
| 6 | 105 to 115 |
| 5.5 | 95 to 100 |
| 5 | 80 to 90 |
| 4.5 | 65 to 75 |
| 4 | 60 |
| 0 to 4 | 10 to 55 |
Duolingo Accepted Universities in Ireland: 2024 Intake
Now that you know the major Duolingo accepted universities in Ireland, what is important to you is to understand the admission cycle at Irish universities.
Irish universities and colleges have two main intake periods, also referred to as semesters. The Autumn intake (September) starts in early September and ends in December, while the Spring intake (February) commences in late January and extends through May.
If you are wondering which Duolingo accepted universities in Ireland 2024 intake you should choose, consider factors such as programme availability, academic qualifications, admission test scores, acceptance rates, employment opportunities, and your readiness to begin the program.
The Autumn Intake (September) is generally more popular in Ireland, with most universities and programs starting around that time. September might be ideal due to the following reasons.
- More program options are available, offering greater flexibility to align with your academic goals.
- Starting alongside a larger group of international students can ease the transition.
- You can use the summer break in India to settle in Ireland before classes commence.
For more information, read: Ireland Intakes 2024
How to Get an Ideal Duolingo Score?
Did you know Ireland boasts a high graduate employability rate ranging from 80% to 95%? Some institutions, like Dublin City University, achieve an impressive graduate employability rate of up to 97%. However, to gain admission to these top universities, achieving an ideal Duolingo score is essential.
Here’s how you can achieve an ideal score which is generally 120 for most Duolingo-accepted universities in Ireland.
- Take the official practice test multiple times to familiarise yourself with different question types and the exam structure.
- That said, don’t just answer practice tests but also make sure they are scored.
- Build a strong vocabulary and refine grammar skills through reading reputable publications like Time and The New Yorker.
Summing up
With its unique blend of academic excellence and cultural richness, Ireland is an ideal destination for higher education for Indian students. The best part? The DET can take you one step closer!
DET offers a convenient pathway for Indian students to fulfil English proficiency requirements. By preparing diligently, you can enhance your chances of securing admission to top universities in Ireland.
Ready to kick-start your studies in Ireland? Over 2L students have trusted LeapScholar with their study abroad journey. Here’s your opportunity! Schedule a free call with our experts today to have all your questions regarding Duolingo-accepted universities in Ireland answered.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. Is Duolingo accepted in Irish universities?
A. Many Irish universities accept the Duolingo English Test (DET) as proof of English proficiency for admission. It has become increasingly recognised alongside traditional tests like IELTS and TOEFL. The DET allows applicants to demonstrate their language skills conveniently and is accepted by several prestigious institutions such as University College Dublin.
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Q. Which are the top Duolingo accepted universities in Ireland 2024 for postgraduate programs?
A. Some of the top Duolingo-accepted universities in Ireland for postgraduate programs in 2024 include Dublin City University, University College Dublin, and Trinity College Dublin. These institutions recognise DET as part of their admissions process, offering Indian students opportunities for advanced study in various fields.
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Q. Which are the Duolingo 90 score accepted universities in Ireland?
A. South East Technological University (SETU) accepts a Duolingo English Test score of 90 for undergraduate program admissions. This score requirement indicates that SETU recognises the DET as a valid measure of English language proficiency for prospective Indian students applying to their undergraduate programs.
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Q. Is Duolingo easier than IELTS?
A. Comparing the Duolingo and IELTS tests, Duolingo is often considered easier than IELTS. It emphasises fundamental language skills like grammar and vocabulary with a structure that may be more straightforward for some test-takers. On the other hand, IELTS demands a deeper understanding of the English language.
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Q. Does Dublin City University accept Duolingo?
A. Yes, Dublin City University (DCU) accepts the Duolingo English Test (DET) as valid proof of English proficiency for admission to its programs. It’s advisable to check the specific requirements and minimum score requirements for different program levels set by DCU on the official website.
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Q. Which country accepts the Duolingo test 2024?
A. Universities and institutions in various countries around the world accept the Duolingo English Test (DET). These include Ireland, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia. However, it is important to verify specific requirements with each institution and university.
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Q. Is 85 a good Duolingo score?
A. A Duolingo score of 85 falls within the intermediate range for English proficiency. According to Duolingo’s classification, scores between 60 and 85 indicate proficiency, which means individuals can handle routine tasks at work or school.
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Q. Is it possible to go to Ireland without IELTS?
A. Yes, it is possible to study in Ireland without taking the IELTS. As of 2021, many universities and colleges in Ireland accept alternative English proficiency tests such as the Duolingo English Test (DET) as a valid substitute for IELTS or TOEFL scores. This provides flexibility for Indian students who may prefer or have already taken the DET over other English proficiency tests.
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Q. Can one convert Duolingo to IELTS?
A. Yes, it is possible to convert Duolingo to IELTS. However, it is not straightforward due to the differences in how each test assesses English proficiency. That said, understanding how DET scores align with IELTS bands provides insights into your English proficiency. For instance, IELTS Academic scores between 8.5 to 9 correspond to a Duolingo English Test (DET) score of 160.
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Q. Is 100 a good score in Duolingo?
A. A Duolingo score of 100 is generally considered good. Scores in the range of 100 to 120 are generally accepted by many universities in Ireland as proof of English proficiency, covering reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, making it suitable for admission to many universities.
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Q. Does Trinity College Dublin accept Duolingo?
A. Yes, Trinity College Dublin does accept the Duolingo English Test (DET) as an alternative to other English language proficiency tests such as IELTS and TOEFL. The test assesses reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills and provides an overall score that universities can use to evaluate your English proficiency.
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Q. Is 115 a good Duolingo score?
A. A score of 115 on the Duolingo English Test (DET) is generally considered a good score. The DET scores range from 10 to 160, with higher scores indicating better English proficiency. Different institutions may have different score requirements, but a score of 115 demonstrates a strong command of the English language across reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
