Q. Is Duolingo accepted in USA?

A. Yes, you can use Duolingo to get into universities in the USA. But every school has rules about how high your score needs to be. The higher your Duolingo score, the better your chance of getting into your dream school.

Q. Is Duolingo a reliable exam for language proficiency?

A. Yes, Duolingo is considered a reliable exam for language proficiency. It’s widely accepted by over 5500 institutions worldwide and has been validated by various countries, affirming its credibility as a trusted language proficiency test.

Q. Who conducts the Duolingo Test?

A. Duolingo administers the Duolingo Test, a language learning platform that offers a credible alternative for students to demonstrate their English skills. Accepted by over 5500 institutions globally, the Duolingo English Test (DET) provides a convenient and accessible option for individuals seeking to validate their English proficiency, further emphasising its reliability in assessing language skills.

Q. How many times can a student take Duolingo?

A. You can give the Duolingo Test as many shots as you want to get your best score. But here's the deal: you can't go crazy and take it more than three times in just 30 days. They have this rule to keep things fair and ensure folks aren't overdoing it with retakes. So, practice, but remember to pace yourself within that limit!

Q. Is a 95 Duolingo score accepted in USA?

A. Some institutions accept a Duolingo 95 score, but it’s essential to check each university’s specific requirements to admit students. Several well-known universities accept the 90-95 test, such as Arizona State University and Northwestern University, and others accept the Duolingo test.

Q. What is the minimum score for Duolingo USA?

A. The minimum score requirement is between 90 and 120. Universities may have different score requirements for the Duolingo English Test. Some universities may have minimum score requirements, while others may consider various factors besides test scores during admissions.

Q. What is the validity of Duolingo test scores?

A. Duolingo English Test score validity is for two years. However, universities may have their own policies regarding the validity period of test scores. Always verify with the universities you are applying to regarding the expiration of scores.

Q. Can I submit the Duolingo English Test and TOEFL/IELTS scores to universities?

A. Yes, typically, you can submit both the Duolingo English Test and TOEFL/IELTS scores to universities unless the specific university states otherwise. It's always a good idea to check the admissions requirements of each university to ensure you provide the necessary documentation according to their guidelines.

Q. Can I retake the Duolingo English Test to improve my scores?

A. Yes, you can retake the Duolingo English Test to improve your scores. There is no limit to the number of times you can take the test. However, you must note that some universities may consider only your highest score, while others may consider your most recent score or provide guidelines on score reporting.

Q. How long does receiving the official Duolingo English Test score report take?

A. You’ll receive your official Duolingo English Test score report within 48 hours after completing the exam. This report can be conveniently accessed online through your Duolingo English Test account.

Q. Is Duolingo actually free?

Ans. Yes, Duolingo is free to use for language learning. The platform offers a wide range of courses in multiple languages at no cost. However, Duolingo also offers a premium subscription called “Duolingo Plus,” which provides an ad-free experience, offline access, and other benefits for a monthly or yearly fee.

Q. Is Duolingo easier than IELTS?

Ans. Duolingo's English Test (DET) is often considered easier than the IELTS because of its adaptive format and shorter duration. The DET adjusts its difficulty based on the test taker’s performance, while the IELTS has a fixed structure with separate sections for listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Moreover, the Duolingo test is typically completed in about 60 minutes, compared to the IELTS, which can take up to 3 hours.

Q. Which University accepts the Duolingo test?

Ans. Over 5,500 institutions worldwide accept the Duolingo English Test as a valid measure of English language proficiency. Some well-known institutions that accept Duolingo include New York University, Yale University, and Columbia University in the United States, the University of Toronto in Canada, and the University of Adelaide in Australia.

Q. Which country accepts Duolingo?

Ans. The Duolingo English Test is accepted in several countries across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. The United States and Canada are among the top countries that accept Duolingo for university admissions, with many institutions recognising it as a valid English proficiency test. In addition, universities in the United Kingdom, Australia, and Ireland also accept Duolingo.

Q. Which is better TOEFL or Duolingo for USA?

Ans. Whether TOEFL or Duolingo is better for studying in the USA depends on the specific university and the applicant's needs. TOEFL is widely accepted and recognised by almost all U.S. universities, offering a comprehensive assessment of reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills over approximately 3 hours.

List of Duolingo Accepted Universities in USA [2025 Update]

Last Updated OnMay 19, 2025
Published InExams 📘, Study in US 🇺🇸

9 min read

Confused about which universities accept the Duolingo English Test for 2025 admissions? You’re not alone. With so many options for English proficiency tests, it can be overwhelming to figure out which universities recognise Duolingo.

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The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a computer-based English competency test for international students that is convenient, easy, and inexpensive.

Did you know?
More than 5,500 universities and institutions worldwide have officially accepted the Duolingo English Test, and more are joining every day.

Like other study abroad tests, the test assesses all four language skills, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking, and provides a scale of 10 to 160, with 160 being the highest score.

As of 2025, many Duolingo-accepted universities in the USA, including top-tier schools, are opening their doors to international students. For those aiming for a master’s program, several universities in USA for masters are part of this list, making it a convenient choice for graduate applicants.

Duolingo Accepted Universities in USA for Masters Programs.

University	Duolingo English Test Requirement	Program-Specific Notes
Princeton University	125	Accepted for Ph.D. and MSE programs in Computer Science. Note: Not all departments may accept Duolingo; confirm with the specific program.
Rice University	115	Some programs may have more stringent requirements; consult the specific program for details.
Dartmouth College	135	Minimum score of 135 for Guarini School graduate programs.
Vanderbilt University	130	Minimum score of 130 for most graduate programs. Note: Not all programs accept Duolingo; verify with the specific department.
University of Notre Dame	120	Minimum score of 120 for graduate programs.
Carnegie Mellon University	105-120	Minimum score varies by program; for example, 105 for Chemistry, 120 for other programs.
New York University	125	Minimum score of 125 for Tandon School of Engineering. Note: Some programs may not accept Duolingo; confirm with the specific department.
University of California - Santa Barbara	115	Minimum score of 115 for graduate admissions.
University of Illinois - Urbana Champaign	115	Accepted for admission; however, not accepted for teaching assistantship eligibility.
University of Washington	105 (minimum), 125+ (recommended)	Minimum score of 105; recommended score of 125 or higher.
The Ohio State University	120	Minimum score of 120 for graduate admissions.
Purdue University	110	Minimum score of 110 for graduate admissions.
Lehigh University	110	Minimum score of 110 for graduate admissions
University of Rochester	120	Duolingo accepted
Northeastern University	105	Duolingo accepted
Harvard University	120	Accepted for master's programs at Harvard Medical School
Yale University	120	Most competitive applicants have DET scores of at least 120
University of Wisconsin-Madison	120	Accepted for graduate programs starting Spring 2025
University of Maryland	120	Accepted for graduate programs; applicants with scores between 115-119 may be required to enroll in the English Bridge Program.
Wichita State University	115	General requirement; MBA program requires 125.

Duolingo Accepted Universities in USA for Undergraduate Programs

Refer to the following information for a list of Duolingo-accepted universities in the USA for undergraduate programs. This will help you explore institutions that recognise the Duolingo English Test as part of their admissions criteria.

University Name	Minimum Duolingo Score	Program-Specific Notes
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	120	Accepted for undergraduate admissions.
Stanford University	Not specified	Duolingo English Test accepted; no specific minimum score stated.
Yale University	120	Most competitive applicants have DET scores of at least 120.
University of Pennsylvania	130	Applicants must designate Penn as a recipient when registering for the exam.
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)	120	Accepted for undergraduate admissions.
Duke University	130	Recommended minimum score for undergraduate admissions.
Brown University	130	Minimum score expected in most cases.
Johns Hopkins University	120	Additionally, preferred sub-scores include Literacy-125, Conversation-120, Comprehension-135, and Production-105.
Northwestern University	105	Duolingo English Test accepted
Columbia University in the City of New York	135	Minimum score necessary for admission.
Cornell University	130	Minimum score for admissions consideration.
The University of Chicago	Not specified	Duolingo English Test accepted; no specific minimum score stated.
University of California - Berkeley	115	Minimum score required for admission.
University of California - Los Angeles (UCLA)	130	Competitive score expected for admission.
Rice University	115	Minimum score required for admission.

The minimum score for universities accepting Duolingo in the upcoming intakes varies depending on the institution and the program you are applying to. In general, top universities accept a score of 100-120.

A score above 120 is required to get into top-ranking universities and for professional courses like MBA, MS in Data Science, Finance, and Masters in Civil Engineering.

Note that you can still get into some good universities if your score is between 80 and 100, but you’ll have fewer options and less competitive courses.

Universities in the USA Accepting Duolingo for 2025 Admission: 90-100 Score Range

If you are aiming for a Duolingo English Test (DET) score between 90 and 100, you can still apply to many well-known universities in the United States for the 2025 intake. Some highly competitive universities may look for higher scores. However, many others will consider your application seriously if the rest of your profile is strong.

Several universities offer direct or conditional admission if your DET score is at least 90. The final decision depends on how competitive the program is.

Make sure you also focus on these areas:

GPA of 2.5 or higher
A clear and well-written Statement of Purpose
Strong Letters of Recommendation
Solid academic preparation

Below are some U.S. universities that accept a DET score between 90 and 100:

Duolingo Accepted Universities (USA, 2025 Intake)	Minimum DET Score
Temple University	90-95 (CAP eligible)
Indiana University - Indianapolis	90
University of New Orleans	100
University of Texas of the Permian Basin	100
Stephen F. Austin State University	100

Universities in the USA Accepting Duolingo for 2025 Admission: 120 & Above

Aiming for a score of 120 or higher on the Duolingo English Test (DET) could be your key to getting into several top US universities for 2025. But remember, each institution might need more than just a good score.

For those targeting specific Duolingo English test scores, universities in the USA that accept a Duolingo score of 110 usually include programs with higher academic demands.

Universities will also have additional requirements. They will request work experience, a GPA between 3.0 and 4, a LOR, an SOP, and other relevant documents.

If you are wondering which universities in the USA accept the Duolingo test, many are in the top 100 rankings and provide a wide range of programmes and opportunities.

Some of the top universities that accept a DET score of 120 and above are:

Duolingo Accepted Universities in USA for 2025 Intake	Minimum Score
University of Harvard	125
University of Wisconsin-Madison	120
University of Maryland	120
University of Pennsylvania	120
New York University	125

Don’t panic if you fall short on some scores and can’t make it to these universities. There are many Duolingo 110 accepted universities in the USA that are well known for their academics, too.

Explore all countries

Duolingo Accepted Universities in USA for 2025 Intake: Score 100 - 115?

When it comes to the required score, different universities have varying standards. Typically, a Duolingo 100 score can get you into a good number of universities, but more competitive programs might require a minimum Duolingo score for the USA for a master's of 110 or higher.

Duolingo Accepted Universities in USA for 2025 Intake	DET Score Required
Northeastern University	105
University of California, Berkeley	115
University of Washington	105
University of Chicago	105
Duke University	115

What are the Tips to Achieve Your Desired Duolingo Score?

Duolingo is easier than other exams. But you need a good amount of preparation to achieve a high score. We’d recommend starting the preparation at least one month before your probable exam date. Here are a few Duolingo tips and tricks to maximise your learning potential and achieve your goals:

The easiest approach to familiarise yourself with the exam is by understanding Duolingo Exam pattern, solving practice tests and receiving an estimate of your performance
Familiarise yourself with the Duolingo app. Its features, such as discussion forums, a progress tracker, and recommendations, can help you learn better. Use these features to enhance your learning experience.
Complement your learning with additional resources like textbooks, podcasts and online courses.
Master the basics of the language first. This will give you a strong foundation to build upon as you prepare.

Conclusion: Why Choose Duolingo to Study in the USA?

Affordable Option: Duolingo is budget-friendly compared to IELTS or TOEFL, making it a great option for students looking to save on test fees.
Convenient and Flexible: Take the test online from anywhere without the hassle of travelling to a test centre.
Fast Results: Receive your test results within 48 hours, allowing for quicker application processes.
Growing Acceptance: Many universities in the USA now recognise Duolingo as a valid English proficiency test.
Easy to Use: The test is engaging and adapts to your skill level, providing a smooth and user-friendly experience.

Duolingo can simplify your admission process while offering the same benefits as traditional tests.

As more universities in the USA begin to accept the Duolingo English Test, it offers a convenient and affordable alternative for international students to prove their English proficiency.

By familiarising yourself with the requirements of Duolingo-accepted universities, you can streamline your application process and take a step closer to studying in the USA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is Duolingo accepted in USA?

A. Yes, you can use Duolingo to get into universities in the USA. But every school has rules about how high your score needs to be. The higher your Duolingo score, the better your chance of getting into your dream school.
Q. Is Duolingo a reliable exam for language proficiency?

A. Yes, Duolingo is considered a reliable exam for language proficiency. It’s widely accepted by over 5500 institutions worldwide and has been validated by various countries, affirming its credibility as a trusted language proficiency test.
Q. Who conducts the Duolingo Test?

A. Duolingo administers the Duolingo Test, a language learning platform that offers a credible alternative for students to demonstrate their English skills. Accepted by over 5500 institutions globally, the Duolingo English Test (DET) provides a convenient and accessible option for individuals seeking to validate their English proficiency, further emphasising its reliability in assessing language skills.
Q. How many times can a student take Duolingo?

A. You can give the Duolingo Test as many shots as you want to get your best score. But here's the deal: you can't go crazy and take it more than three times in just 30 days. They have this rule to keep things fair and ensure folks aren't overdoing it with retakes. So, practice, but remember to pace yourself within that limit!
Q. Is a 95 Duolingo score accepted in USA?

A. Some institutions accept a Duolingo 95 score, but it’s essential to check each university’s specific requirements to admit students. Several well-known universities accept the 90-95 test, such as Arizona State University and Northwestern University, and others accept the Duolingo test.
Q. What is the minimum score for Duolingo USA?

A. The minimum score requirement is between 90 and 120. Universities may have different score requirements for the Duolingo English Test. Some universities may have minimum score requirements, while others may consider various factors besides test scores during admissions.
Q. What is the validity of Duolingo test scores?

A. Duolingo English Test score validity is for two years. However, universities may have their own policies regarding the validity period of test scores. Always verify with the universities you are applying to regarding the expiration of scores.
Q. Can I submit the Duolingo English Test and TOEFL/IELTS scores to universities?

A. Yes, typically, you can submit both the Duolingo English Test and TOEFL/IELTS scores to universities unless the specific university states otherwise. It's always a good idea to check the admissions requirements of each university to ensure you provide the necessary documentation according to their guidelines.
Q. Can I retake the Duolingo English Test to improve my scores?

A. Yes, you can retake the Duolingo English Test to improve your scores. There is no limit to the number of times you can take the test.

However, you must note that some universities may consider only your highest score, while others may consider your most recent score or provide guidelines on score reporting.
Q. How long does receiving the official Duolingo English Test score report take?

A. You’ll receive your official Duolingo English Test score report within 48 hours after completing the exam. This report can be conveniently accessed online through your Duolingo English Test account.
Q. Is Duolingo actually free?

Ans. Yes, Duolingo is free to use for language learning. The platform offers a wide range of courses in multiple languages at no cost. However, Duolingo also offers a premium subscription called “Duolingo Plus,” which provides an ad-free experience, offline access, and other benefits for a monthly or yearly fee.
Q. Is Duolingo easier than IELTS?

Ans. Duolingo's English Test (DET) is often considered easier than the IELTS because of its adaptive format and shorter duration. The DET adjusts its difficulty based on the test taker’s performance, while the IELTS has a fixed structure with separate sections for listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Moreover, the Duolingo test is typically completed in about 60 minutes, compared to the IELTS, which can take up to 3 hours.
Q. Which University accepts the Duolingo test?

Ans. Over 5,500 institutions worldwide accept the Duolingo English Test as a valid measure of English language proficiency. Some well-known institutions that accept Duolingo include New York University, Yale University, and Columbia University in the United States, the University of Toronto in Canada, and the University of Adelaide in Australia.
Q. Which country accepts Duolingo?

Ans. The Duolingo English Test is accepted in several countries across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. The United States and Canada are among the top countries that accept Duolingo for university admissions, with many institutions recognising it as a valid English proficiency test. In addition, universities in the United Kingdom, Australia, and Ireland also accept Duolingo.
Q. Which is better TOEFL or Duolingo for USA?

Ans. Whether TOEFL or Duolingo is better for studying in the USA depends on the specific university and the applicant's needs. TOEFL is widely accepted and recognised by almost all U.S. universities, offering a comprehensive assessment of reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills over approximately 3 hours.

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Hi! I'm Stalin J Manjaly, and I am passionate about helping you succeed in your study abroad journey. As a content writer at Leap, I enjoy breaking down tricky concepts and providing tips to make studying abroad easier.

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