The number of US schools that accept Duolingo English test instead of IELTS or TOEFL tests is rapidly growing. These tests play a key role in proving language proficiency among international students seeking to study abroad. While the usual tests like IELTS or TOEFL are commonly accepted, the Duolingo English test has recently gained popularity since it’s a flexible, easier, and affordable alternative.
Duolingo offers students a convenient option to demonstrate their language skill from any part of the world, since it’s a remote test. Many universities in the USA now use the Duolingo English Test to open doors for students who may find it difficult to access traditional testing centers. These universities are making it easier to pursue higher education in the U.S by offering international students an opportunity to gain admission based on their Duolingo scores.
Key language skills like reading, listening, writing, and speaking through interactive tasks is what The Duolingo Test evaluates, all within a 60-minute test duration. Many US schools that accept Duolingo English Test instead of IELTS or TOEFL use a valid measure of English proficiency, understanding that the rest offer an accurate reflection of a student’s abilities. It offers an accessible online test format and lower testing fees.
Duolingo has become a popular choice for students worldwide. Here is a list of universities in the US that accept Duolingo English test instead of the IELTS or TOEFL:
Table of Contents
1. University of Florida:
University of Florida (UF) is one of the US schools that accept the Duolingo English Test instead of IELTS or TOEFL for undergraduate international applicants as proof of English language proficiency. It offers a more convenient option for students who may not have access to TOEFL or IELTS. A minimum Duolingo score of 105 is generally required, though some programs may set higher standards. [check official website]
2. Tuskegee University:
Tuskegee University, a private historically Black university in Alabama is one of the US schools that accepts Duolingo English Test instead of IELTS or TOEFL as part of its English language proficiency requirements for international undergraduate applicants. A minimum score of 95–100 on Duolingo is typically expected, but requirements can vary by program. It’s recommended to verify directly with the admissions office or the program you’re applying to, especially for graduate studies. [check official website]
3. University of Iowa:
The University of Iowa accepts the Duolingo English Test as a valid proof of English proficiency for international undergraduate applicants. The minimum Duolingo score generally required is 105. Some graduate programs may also accept Duolingo, but it varies by department—always check specific program requirements. [check official website]
4. Texas Tech University:
Texas Tech University is one of the US schools that accept Duolingo English test instead of IELTS or TOEFL for international undergraduate admissions. The minimum required score is typically 100–105, depending on the program. For graduate programs, Duolingo may be accepted as well, but it’s program-specific, so applicants should check individual department requirements. [check official website]
5. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign:
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) accepts the Duolingo English Test for certain undergraduate and graduate programs. For undergraduate admissions, a minimum score of 105 is generally required. For graduate programs, Duolingo acceptance and score requirements vary by department—some require higher scores or prefer TOEFL/IELTS instead. [check official website]
6. Purdue University:
Purdue University is one of the US schools that accept Duolingo English test instead of IELTS or TOEFL for some of its programs, especially at the undergraduate level. For undergraduate admissions, Purdue generally requires a minimum Duolingo score of 110. [check official website]
7. West Virginia University:
West Virginia University (WVU) accepts the Duolingo English Test as proof of English proficiency for many of its programs, especially for undergraduate applicants. WVU typically requires a minimum Duolingo score of around 105-110, but this can vary by program. For graduate admissions, some departments might have different requirements, so checking specific program guidelines is advised. [check official website]
8. Penn State University:
Penn State University accepts the Duolingo English Test as proof of English proficiency for international applicants. The university typically requires a minimum Duolingo score of around 110, but this can vary depending on the specific program or college within Penn State. This acceptance provides a convenient alternative to traditional tests like TOEFL or IELTS, making it easier for students worldwide to apply. [check official website]
9. University of Notre Dame (in place of other tests):
University of Notre Dame accepts the Duolingo English Test for demonstrating English proficiency for international students. This allows applicants an alternative to the traditional TOEFL or IELTS exams. Minimum Duolingo scores may vary by program, so it’s important to verify specific requirements on their admissions page. Notre Dame values strong communication skills, and the Duolingo test offers a flexible way to showcase your English ability. [check official website]
10. University of California, Berkeley:
UC Berkeley, one of the most prestigious public universities in the US schools that accept Duolingo English Test instead of IELTS or TOEFL for both undergraduate and graduate admissions. This reflects the institution’s inclusive approach toward international students and its recognition of Duolingo as a reliable alternative to traditional exams like TOEFL and IELTS. With a strong Duolingo score, applicants can confidently demonstrate their English proficiency when applying to UC Berkeley. [check official website]
11. New York University (NYU):
New York University (NYU), a prestigious private research university located in New York City, is known for its global outlook and diverse student body. NYU accepts the Duolingo English Test as part of its English language proficiency requirements for undergraduate international applicants. This provides an accessible and flexible testing option for students who may not be able to take TOEFL or IELTS. [check official website]
12. Harvard University:
Harvard University, one of the most prestigious Ivy League institutions in the United States, is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. While Harvard does not generally accept the Duolingo English Test for all of its programs, some individual graduate departments may consider it as part of their application process, especially in cases where TOEFL or IELTS is difficult to obtain. [check official website]
13. Boston University:
Boston University (BU), located in Boston, Massachusetts, is a top-tier private research university that accepts the Duolingo English Test for both undergraduate and certain graduate programs. BU recognizes Duolingo as a reliable and accessible way for international students to demonstrate English proficiency. Students applying with Duolingo are typically required to meet a minimum score (usually around 120 or higher), though this may vary depending on the program. [check official website]
14. University of Washington:
University of Washington (UW), located in Seattle, is a leading public research university that accepts the Duolingo English Test for undergraduate admissions. This offers international applicants a flexible and cost-effective alternative to traditional tests like TOEFL and IELTS. Applicants are generally expected to achieve a minimum Duolingo score of 105–120, depending on the program. [check official website]
15. University of Miami:
University of Miami, a private research university in Florida, accepts the Duolingo English Test as proof of English proficiency for undergraduate international applicants. This makes the application process more accessible, especially for students unable to access traditional testing centers. A minimum score of 105 on the Duolingo English Test is typically recommended. [check official website]
16. University of Minnesota:
University of Minnesota is one of the US schools that accept Duolingo English Test instead of IELTS or TOEFL for demonstrating English proficiency for international students. This acceptance offers a flexible alternative to traditional tests like TOEFL and IELTS. Different programs may have specific minimum score requirements, so check the admissions page for your desired course. [check official website]
17. University of Colorado Boulder:
University of Colorado Boulder is well recognized as one of the US schools that accept Duolingo English Test instead of TOEFL or IELTS as proof of English proficiency for international applicants. USC offers this flexible alternative, making it easier for students worldwide to apply. Minimum Duolingo score requirements vary by program, so checking the specific department’s admissions guidelines is recommended. [check official website]
18. University of Chicago:
University of Chicago is known as one of the US schools that accept the Duolingo English Test instead of IELTS or TOEFL for many of its graduate programs, providing international applicants with a flexible alternative to traditional English proficiency exams like TOEFL and IELTS. This acceptance helps ease the application process for students facing test center access challenges. Minimum required scores may vary by program, so it’s important to check the specific department’s admission requirements. [check official website]
19. Columbia University:
Columbia University is a part of the US schools that accept Duolingo English test instead of IELTS or TOEFL for international students applying to certain graduate programs. This offers a flexible and accessible way to meet English language requirements without the need for traditional tests like TOEFL or IELTS. Requirements and minimum scores may vary by program, so applicants should review the specific criteria on Columbia’s admissions page. [check official website]
20. University of Southern California (USC):
University of Southern California (USC) is recognized as one of the US schools that accept Duolingo English Test instead of TOEFL or IELTS as proof of English proficiency for international applicants. USC offers this flexible alternative, making it easier for students worldwide to apply. Minimum Duolingo score requirements vary by program, so checking the specific department’s admissions guidelines is recommended. [check official website]
These listed US schools that accept Duolingo English Test instead of IELTS or TOEFL offer a wide range of academic opportunities for international students, making it easier for them to show their English proficiency and pursue their education in the United States. Duolingo has provided students with more options and flexibility when applying to top universities across the country.
Things to consider before applying to one of the US schools that accept Duolingo English test instead of IELTS or TOEFL
- Check specific program requirements: University admissions policies can vary by department. Always verify the Duolingo score requirements on the official website of the specific program you are applying to.
- Score requirements: Some universities, such as MIT and Harvard, may require a score of 120 or higher, while others accept scores between 100 and 115.
- Â Prepare Thoroughly: Although Duolingo is shorter than IELTS/TOEFL, it tests all language skills. Practice well to get a competitive score.
Conclusion
With the growing recognition of Duolingo, students have more options when applying to US schools that accept Duolingo English test instead of IELTS or TOEFL, and it’s easier to apply to top universities across the country. It’s important to aim for a good DET score to help unlock exceptional opportunities across the U.S.Â
