Is Duolingo English Test accepted in USA/UK/Canada universities?

 


Absolutely—a lot of universities in the USA, UK, and Canada now accept the Duolingo English Test (DET) as proof of English proficiency. Here's a concise breakdown with key details and real-world feedback:


United States (USA)

  • Many universities accept DET, including prestigious names:
    • Harvard University, Yale, Stanford, NYU Stern, MIT, Cornell, University of Pennsylvania, UC Berkeley, George Mason, Arizona State, University of South Florida, Colorado State, and more EdvoyLeverage EduAECC Search.
  • Some require specific minimum scores—for example, Harvard typically expects around 125, while universities like UC Berkeley or Duke might accept scores between 100–115 Leverage Edu+1.
  • Visa-wise, DET is accepted for student visa applications to the USA through institutions recognizing the test Leverage Edu+1.
  • However, a few elite institutions like Princeton or Amherst do not accept DET, and some others may only treat it as supplemental to TOEFL/IELTS Reddit+1.

A student shared:
“Duolingo English Test is accepted in almost schools except Princeton & University of Miami... your score will be out within 48 hours.” Reddit


United Kingdom (UK)

  • Over 60 to 130+ UK universities now accept the DET, including:
    • Imperial College London, University of Exeter, University of Liverpool, Aberdeen, Birmingham, Edinburgh, King’s College London, Manchester, Bristol, Sheffield, York, and many others Test CenterDuolingo Guidesbizzeducation.com.
  • Minimum score requirements generally range between 105–130 depending on the university and program Duolingo Guidesbizzeducation.com.
  • Important caveat: The UK government does not accept DET for student visas. If you need a visa, you'll likely still need acceptable scores from tests like IELTS/TOEFL—even if the university accepts DET. bizzeducation.comBoost Education Service.

Canada

  • DET is widely accepted by over 100 institutions, including top-tier ones such as:
    • University of Toronto, McGill, University of British Columbia, University of Alberta, University of Waterloo, Western University, Dalhousie, Simon Fraser University, and more Yocket Study AbroadCollegedunia.
  • Typical DET thresholds:
  • Overall, 416 Canadian institutions, including colleges and community schools, recognize DET Collegedunia.

Quick Summary Table

Country

Acceptance

Score Range (Typical)

Visa Notes

USA

Many major universities, including Ivy Leagues and state schools

~115–125+ depending on school

Accepted for visa if university accepts DET

UK

Over 60–130 institutions (e.g., Imperial, Liverpool, Edinburgh)

~105–130

Not accepted by UK Home Office for student visas

Canada

Widely accepted (100+ universities, colleges included)

Undergrad: ~110; Grad: ~120+

Accepted by institutions for admission/visa


What Students Say

  • One student noted:

“Only Princeton & Amherst don’t accept DET… your score will be out within 48 hours.” Reddit

  • Another mentioned:

“When I applied to McGill’s MSW program… I got the response: ‘Duolingo is accepted.’” Reddit


Final Take

Yes—Duolingo English Test is widely accepted in universities across the USA, UK, and Canada, but:

  • Always check individual university and program requirements—some elite institutions may not accept it, or may require higher scores.
  • For UK student visa purposes, you’ll likely need another accepted test (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL), even if your university accepts DET.

 

Post a Comment

0 Comments