List of Duolingo Accepted Universities in UK in 2024

8 min read

Duolingo English Test (DET) has recently gained popularity as an alternative to English language proficiency tests such as TOEFL and IELTS. This DET offers fast results, has a convenient interface and can be taken from the comfort of your own home.

Around 4,000 UK institutions are accepting Duolingo English Test scores for language competency criteria.

List of Duolingo Accepted Universities in UK in 2024

The scores required for Duolingo accepted universities in the UK vary depending on the institution and the program of study.

The average Duolingo score accepted by UK universities ranges between 105 and 120. If you score 120 and above, you can get into top universities with the most demanding courses in the UK and various choices for competitive courses. 

For example, the University of Edinburgh requires a minimum score of 125 for postgraduate studies. 

If your score is in the range of 105-115, you still have a chance to get into some of the best universities.

A score between 90-100 is enough for linguistically less demanding courses. However, you will have fewer courses and university options. These scores might not be enough alone. You must fulfil other criteria to eventually get admission.

Here’s an overview of the Duolingo test:

Test ModeOnline
Duration1 hour(60 minutes)
Result 2 days
Application fees$59 (INR 4900)
Types of QuestionObjective and Descriptive
Test patternIntroduction(5 minutes)
Adaptive Test(45 minutes)
Writing and Speaking sample (10 minutes)
Minimum scoreBachelor’s: 85-120
Master’s: 105-120

If you’re considering pursuing higher education in the UK, it’s worth checking out this blog. We’ll discuss everything about Duolingo accepted universities in UK, and other key information that you definitely need to know.

Duolingo Accepted Universities in UK: Minimum Score of 120 & Above

Duolingo accepted universities in UKMinimum Duolingo Score
University of Southampton120
University of Bath120
Loughborough University120
University of York120
University of Sussex120

Duolingo Accepted Universities in UK: Minimum Score of 100-115

Duolingo accepted universities in UKMinimum Duolingo Score
University of Westminster100
University of Portsmouth105
University of East Anglia115
Anglia Ruskin University100-110
Imperial College, London115
List of Duolingo Accepted Universities in UK in 2024

University of Westminster (Minimum Duolingo Score: 100)

  • The University of Westminster is a well-established public university located in the heart of London, United Kingdom. Founded in 1838 as the Royal Polytechnic Institution, it was the first polytechnic university to open in London.
  • Located in the heart of London, it is accessible to the most happening spots of the city and has an easy commute.
  • Awarded a Silver rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023, for its high-quality education.
  • It is ranked among the top 100 most international universities globally.

University of Portsmouth (Minimum Duolingo Score: 105)

  • The University of Portsmouth is a public university in Portsmouth, England. It was founded in 1870 and has grown to become a large and well-respected institution with over 28,000 students enrolled in undergraduate and postgraduate programs. 
  • It is one of only five universities in the South East of England to achieve the highest rating of Gold in the 2023 Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF).
  • Has a huge international student community, with over 5,000 international students from 150 different countries.
  • Located in Portsmouth, it is one of the most welcoming and attractive places to live in the UK.

University of East Anglia (Minimum Duolingo Score: 100-110)

  • The University of East Anglia (UEA) is a public research university located in Norwich, England. Founded in 1963, UEA has four faculties and twenty-six schools of study. 
  • Ranked 23rd in the UK as per The Complete University Guide 2024.
  •  Over 91% of their research is rated as “world-leading” or “internationally excellent
  • Among Top 25 university with quality teaching, world-leading research, satisfied students and beautiful surroundings.

Anglia Ruskin University (Minimum Duolingo Score: 110)

  • Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) is a public university in East Anglia, United Kingdom, with a rich heritage dating back to 1858, when it started as the Cambridge School of Art.
  • Rated in the top 15% of universities in the country for graduate employment, 
  • Awarded as the University of the Year at the prestigious UK Social Mobility Awards 2023.
  • Voted as one of the top 10 UK universities for education, social work and sports science courses in the Guardian League Table 2023.

Imperial College, London (Minimum Duolingo Score: 115)

  • Imperial College London is a world-renowned public research university in London, England. The university was founded in 1907 by the merger of three prestigious institutions.
  • Ranked as Top 3 for most subjects, including most types of engineering. 
  • Excellent job prospects – Ranked first for graduate prospects in the Guardian University Guide 2024.
  • It ranks 6th in the world according to the QS world ranking 2024 and is also known as the 4th best global university in the UK.
Duolingo accepted Universities in the UK

Duolingo Accepted Universities in UK: Minimum score of 90

  • University of Westminster
  • University of Leeds

Duolingo accepted universities in UK for Masters 2024

  • University of Southampton
  • London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) 
  • University of Bath
  • Sheffield Hallam University
  • University of Reading

Didn’t Get Your Desired Score? Here are a Few Alternatives!

There are chances that you might not clear or get a low score in the Duolingo test. But don’t get demotivated if you don’t meet expectations. There are alternatives available that can help you demonstrate your language proficiency and meet the university’s requirements:

Take a different language proficiency exam: Most UK universities accept other language proficiency exams, like TOEFL IELTS, Cambridge English Qualifications, and the Pearson Test of English (PTE). You can take any alternative exams instead of Duolingo to demonstrate your English language proficiency.

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Improve your language skills and retake the exam: If you face difficulty with the Duolingo exam, you need to improve your English skills. You can work on your language skills by taking a course, practising speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills, and retaking the exam. The examiners have set no limit to attempt the Duolingo exam, but one cannot take it more than three times in a period of 30 days.

Apply to a university that does not require an English language exam: There are about 68 Duolingo accepted Universities in the UK. If you have a low score, look for universities accepting the score you achieved.

If not, there are universities in the UK that might not require an English language proficiency exam for admission, especially if you have a good score in English in your 12th grade.

Duolingo accepted Universities in the UK

How to get an ideal Duolingo Score?

Remember that achieving an ideal Duolingo score takes good time and effort. Consistent practice and dedication are the keys to success. Here are some tips that can help you improve your Duolingo score:

  • Identify your weaknesses and focus on improving those skills
  • You get plenty of practice tests that simulate the actual exam. Take these tests and assess your language proficiency
  • Read books, magazines, online newspapers or blogs. Look at the different grammar structures and their usage in different types of writing.
  • Ensure you verify the source of your practice materials
  • Watch movies or TV shows with subtitles and practice speaking with native English speakers.

Follow the above tips, ease your anxiety and improve your language proficiency to achieve a higher Duolingo score.

Duolingo Score For UK Student Visa

If you want to apply for a UK student visa, you must note that you can’t do it only with Duolingo test scores. Many Duolingo accepted universities in the UK accept these scores as criteria to admit students. But, the UK government doesn’t acknowledge the exam.

But, if you get an admission offer from the university, you can apply for a visa. The minimum Duolingo English Test score for acceptance in universities is 105-120. This may differ based on the institution and level of study. 

We suggest you check the university’s and the individual program’s language competence requirement standards to ensure you fulfil the minimum score needed. Additionally, meeting the minimum Duolingo score requirement does not guarantee your visa or acceptance into a program, as other factors such as academic qualifications, work experience, and personal statements are also considered.

Duolingo accepting universities in UK is in high demand because of the exam’s convenient nature and fast-paced result declaration.

Moreover, the test is easy to pursue. A score between 100-120 can definitely help you get into the top universities in the UK!

The UK is well-known for its top-ranked universities, high-quality education and job opportunities. Would you like to study at the best UK universities that accept Duolingo? 

Find your perfect course and university with expert guidance. Connect with our study abroad counsellors at LeapScholar and get all your queries answered.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q. Is Duolingo accepted in the UK?

    Duolingo is mostly accepted in the UK as a language learning tool. Many language schools, universities, and employers accept Duolingo certificates as proof of English language proficiency.

  • Q. What is regarded as a good, acceptable Duolingo score?

    A Duolingo score of 120 and above is considered good. According to the Duolingo IELTS conversion, a Duolingo score of 120 is comparable to a traditional IELTS grade of 7 or above.

  • Q. What are the Duolingo accepted universities in the UK for masters?

    Duolingo is accepted by a number of universities in the UK for master’s programs. Some universities include:
    1. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) 
    2. University of Southampton
    3. University of Bath
    4. Sheffield Hallam University
    5. University of Reading

  • Q. What are the Duolingo accepted universities in the UK for the September 2024 intake?

    Duolingo accepted universities in the UK for September 2024 are:
    1. Imperial College London
    2.The University of Exeter
    3. University of Sheffield

  • Q. Can you retake the Duolingo test?

    You can retake Duolingo as many times as you like! Note that in a period of 30 days, you can take the test up to three times.

  • Q. How can I apply to a UK university using the Duolingo English Test?

     You must take the Duolingo English Test by creating an account on the Duolingo website. Once you receive the score, you can include it in your university application and essential documents.

  • Q. Why do students prefer Duolingo?

    When it comes to language learning, many students express a strong preference for Duolingo. It’s easy, cheaper, and convenient, and there are fewer steps to complete all the tasks. Also, it is preferred because it is affordable and accessible on various devices.

  • Q. What is the cost of the Duolingo Test?

    The Duolingo online learning platform conducts the Duolingo English Test. The cost of the test is USD 59 (INR 4900).

  • Q. How long is the Duolingo English Test score valid for UK university admissions?

    Duolingo test scores are valid for 2 years from the test date. However, some universities may have their own validity regulations, so it’s best to check with the university you’re applying to.

  • Q. Is Duolingo enough for a UK visa?

    Duolingo is not acknowledged by the government for UK visas officially. However, if UK universities accept your scores and you have a CAS letter, applying for a visa should not be a problem.

  • Q. What are some Duolingo accepted universities in the UK for January intake 2024?

    1. City University of London
    2. University of Southampton
    3. Glasgow Caledonian University
    4. Oxford Brookes University


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Saket Kohli

An International Higher Ed professional with 7+ years of experience studying, working, and living across three geographies, currently on a mission to share his journey as an International Student.

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