Can PTE or Duolingo replace IELTS for a masters application?
13 Aug 2026 · Answered by Neelam B · 2 min read
Your PTE Academic or Duolingo English Test score can genuinely replace IELTS for many masters applications, but exactly how far it takes you still depends on your target country and specific university policy. Always confirm before you commit to one test over another.
Test Acceptance by Region
| Region | PTE Academic | Duolingo English Test |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Widely accepted | Widely integrated into admissions |
| United Kingdom | Fully accepted for visas | Accepted by many, but not all top-tier schools |
| Canada | Accepted for the Student Direct Stream | Varies; often not preferred for visa processing |
| Australia | Standard for admissions and visas | Generally not accepted for the student visa |
How to Verify Your Specific Requirement
- Check your programme's admission requirements page directly for its list of approved English tests.
- Confirm score equivalencies, since an IELTS 6.5 typically equates to a PTE 58 or a Duolingo 115 to 120.
- Verify your destination country's immigration department separately accepts your chosen test for visa issuance.
My Advice
Choose PTE Academic if you are unsure which test to sit, since it carries the broadest acceptance across UK, Canadian and Australian visas alongside university admissions. Reserve Duolingo for US-focused applications, where it is genuinely trusted, rather than a country where it may complicate your visa file.
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