In today’s interconnected world, studying abroad is more attainable than ever. For students from non-English-speaking countries such as Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Nigeria, demonstrating English proficiency is a vital first step. While the IELTS and TOEFL tests have traditionally dominated this area, the Duolingo English Test (DET) has rapidly gained popularity as a quicker, cheaper, and more flexible alternative.
In this blog, we’ll explore which countries and universities accept the Duolingo English Test in 2025, with a focus on the USA, UK, Canada, Australia and beyond. We will also address the question of whether Duolingo is sufficient for student visa applications.
The Duolingo English Test is a quick and relatively inexpensive alternative to the IELTS and TOEFL tests. It assesses your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills in just one hour, from the comfort of your own home. It is accepted by many universities in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and beyond. However, some of the most prestigious UK institutions still prefer IELTS or TOEFL, so it’s important to check with your chosen university before applying. Overall, Duolingo offers students a flexible and convenient way to meet English language requirements quickly and cost-effectively.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode | Online |
| Duaration | 1 Hour |
| Results Time | Within 48 hours (12 hours for fast-track) |
| Cost | The Duolingo test costs USD $70. You can purchase a bundle of two tests for $118 (i.e., $59 per test). Express results (within 12 hours) cost extra. |
| Score Range | 10 – 160 |
| Format | Objective + Descriptive Questions |
Duolingo accepted Countries
With its convenience and accuracy, the Duolingo English Test is now accepted in over 5,500 institutions globally. Here are the countries that widely recognize the test for university admissions:
- United States
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- Ireland
- New Zealand
- Germany
- France
- China
- Japan
- Singapore
- Qatar
- Thailand
- Austria
- Hungary
- Italy
Duolingo Accepted Universities in the UK
The UK is one of the most popular destinations for international students aiming to study abroad. Below is a list of UK universities that accept the Duolingo English Test in 2025:
- University of Portsmouth
- Solent University
- University of Hertfordshire
- Bournemouth University
- Bangor University
- University of Westminster
- Aston University
[ This is a partial list. Many more institutions accept the Duolingo English Test. Contact us for detailed information and personalized guidance ]
Average Duolingo Score for UK Universities:
- 95–110: Suitable for less linguistically demanding programs
- 110–120+: Required for more competitive and advanced courses
Is Duolingo Enough for a UK Visa?
Duolingo is not a UKVI-approved Secure English Language Test (SELT). However, many universities with a sponsor licence can use Duolingo for admission and internal English language proficiency verification, which may suffice for your visa as long as you are applying for a degree programme sponsored by the university. You should always check the requirements directly with the university and UKVI.
Duolingo Accepted Universities in the USA
A growing number of leading institutions in the United States now accept the Duolingo English Test as part of their admissions process, making it a popular choice among future students. The following are the institutions:
[ This is a partial list. Many more institutions accept the Duolingo English Test. Contact us for detailed information and personalized guidance ]
Duolingo Accepted Universities in Australia
Duolingo scores are also welcome in Australia, a country that is renowned for its world-class education and diverse international student community. Notable universities include:
- University of Sydney
- University of Melbourne
- University of Queensland
- University of Western Australia
- Australian National University (ANU)
- University of Adelaide
- University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
- Macquarie University
- University of New South Wales (UNSW)
- Curtin University
[ This is a partial list. Many more institutions accept the Duolingo English Test. Contact us for detailed information and personalized guidance ]
Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada
Canada is well-known for its excellent education system and its welcoming policies towards immigrants. Many Canadian universities accept Duolingo for admission, which is an important consideration for prospective students.
- University of Toronto
- McGill University
- University of British Columbia (UBC)
- University of Alberta
- University of Waterloo
- Queen’s University
- University of Calgary
- Simon Fraser University
- Carleton University
- University of Saskatchewan
[ This is a partial list. Many more institutions accept the Duolingo English Test. Contact us for detailed information and personalized guidance ]
How to Send Duolingo English Test Results to Universities
Once you receive your DET score, sending your results is simple and free.
Steps:
- Log in to your Duolingo account.
- Click on your test history.
- Select the test score you want to send.
- Click “Send Results.”
- Choose the institutions from the list (you can send results to as many as you like for free).
More info: [ Official Guide ]
FAQs
Yes, you can retake the test twice in 30 days. This allows time for improvement without delays in your application.
The test costs USD 70 (approx. INR 5,880).
- Select a UK university that accepts Duolingo.
- Prepare and take the DET.
- Submit your application via UCAS or the university website.
- Send your DET score directly through your Duolingo dashboard.
The Duolingo English Test is transforming the way international students prove their English proficiency. It’s quick, inexpensive, widely accepted and ideal for modern digital learners. Whether your target is the USA, the UK, Canada or Australia, the DET opens the door to thousands of top universities and simplifies your path to a quality education.
[ This is a partial list. Many more institutions worldwide accept the Duolingo test. Always verify on the official university website for the latest updates. ]
