Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada 2026

Many universities and colleges in Canada accept the Duolingo English Test for international admissions in 2026. For applicants comparing English test options, Duolingo can be a practical alternative to IELTS, TOEFL or PTE, especially when test-centre dates are limited or application deadlines are close.

Most Duolingo accepted universities in Canada ask for a minimum score between 105 and 125, depending on the institution, study level and programme. Colleges and pathway programmes may accept lower scores, while competitive degrees in Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Nursing, Education and Health Sciences may ask for 120 or higher.

This guide explains which Canadian universities accept the Duolingo English Test, what score you should aim for, how Duolingo compares with IELTS and TOEFL, and how it fits into admission and study permit planning.

Is Duolingo accepted in Canada?

Yes, Duolingo is accepted in Canada by many universities, colleges and pathway providers for admission. The Duolingo English Test, often called DET, is used as an English proficiency test for applicants who want to study in English-medium academic programmes.

However, Duolingo is not accepted by every Canadian institution or every programme. A university may accept DET for undergraduate admission but require IELTS, TOEFL or another test for certain graduate or professional programmes. Some departments also set minimum subscores, not only an overall score.

Common question	Short answer
Is Duolingo accepted in Canada?	Yes, by many institutions for admission
Is Duolingo accepted by every Canadian university?	No, acceptance varies
Typical Duolingo score for Canada	105–125 for many universities
Is 105 accepted in Canada?	Sometimes, mainly by selected colleges, pathway routes and some universities
Is Duolingo accepted for master’s in Canada?	Yes, by some universities and programmes
Is Duolingo accepted in Canada for PR?	No, not as a PR language test

The safest approach is simple: choose your course first, then check whether that institution accepts Duolingo for your exact programme and intake.

Minimum Duolingo score for Canada

There is no single minimum Duolingo score for Canada. Each university, college and programme sets its own English language requirement. Even within the same university, a Business degree, Nursing degree and master’s programme may have different score expectations.

Study option	Typical Duolingo score
Vocational, foundation or pathway programmes	80–105
College diploma or certificate programmes	95–110
Undergraduate university programmes	105–120
Master’s and graduate programmes	115–125
Competitive programmes	120–130+

A score of 105 may be enough for some colleges, pathway programmes and selected universities. A score of 110–115 is more realistic for many undergraduate routes. For master’s programmes and selective degrees, a safer target is usually 120–125.

Do not treat the minimum score as your personal target. If a university asks for 110, aiming for 115 or 120 gives you more room, especially when the programme is competitive.

Duolingo accepted universities in Canada 2026

The table below lists popular Duolingo accepted universities in Canada for 2026. The score ranges are general guidance only. Requirements may change by intake, study level, faculty and programme, so always confirm the latest details on the official university website before applying.

University	Province	Typical Duolingo score	Notes
University of Toronto	Ontario	Programme-specific	Requirements vary by faculty and level
McGill University	Québec	Programme-specific	Check the exact programme requirement
University of British Columbia	British Columbia	Programme-specific	Acceptance may vary by route and programme
University of Alberta	Alberta	Around 120	Some programmes may require minimum subscores
University of Calgary	Alberta	Around 120	Professional programmes may ask for stronger proof
University of Waterloo	Ontario	Programme-specific	Competitive programmes may have stricter rules
York University	Ontario	Around 110–120	Many undergraduate routes accept DET
Simon Fraser University	British Columbia	Around 115–125	Graduate requirements may be higher
University of Manitoba	Manitoba	Around 110+	Programme-level variation is common
University of Saskatchewan	Saskatchewan	Around 110	Check faculty-specific requirements
University of Guelph	Ontario	Around 115–120	Graduate programmes may ask for higher scores
Carleton University	Ontario	Around 110	English pathway options may be available
Concordia University	Québec	Around 110–120	Requirements vary by programme and level
Memorial University of Newfoundland	Newfoundland and Labrador	Around 115	Undergraduate and graduate rules may differ
University of Windsor	Ontario	Around 120	Some faculties may set higher standards
University of New Brunswick	New Brunswick	Around 115	Requirements may differ by campus
University of Regina	Saskatchewan	Around 110+	DET is accepted for many academic routes
Lakehead University	Ontario	Around 120	Recent requirements are relatively strict
University of Winnipeg	Manitoba	Around 120	Check direct-entry undergraduate rules
University of Prince Edward Island	Prince Edward Island	Around 110	Programme-specific requirements apply
Vancouver Island University	British Columbia	Around 105–110	Popular for practical and career-focused programmes
Royal Roads University	British Columbia	Around 105–110	Professional programmes may vary
Thompson Rivers University	British Columbia	Around 105–110	Known for flexible international admission routes
Algoma University	Ontario	Around 110	Often suitable for applicants in the 105–115 range
Cape Breton University	Nova Scotia	Around 110–115	Check the current intake requirement
Saint Mary’s University	Nova Scotia	Around 105–110	Direct and conditional routes may differ
St. Francis Xavier University	Nova Scotia	Around 105–110	Undergraduate-focused institution
Brandon University	Manitoba	Around 105–110	Faculty-level differences may apply
Laurentian University	Ontario	Around 105	Confirm the current admission rule
University Canada West	British Columbia	Around 105–115	Business-focused private university
Yorkville University	Multiple campuses / online	Around 105	Requirements vary by programme
Fairleigh Dickinson University Vancouver	British Columbia	Around 100–105+	Canadian campus of a US university
New York Institute of Technology Vancouver	British Columbia	Around 105–110	Graduate-heavy programmes; verify by course

This list should be used for shortlisting, not as final admission advice. Always check the official English language requirement before applying.

What is the Duolingo English Test?

The Duolingo English Test is an online English proficiency test used by universities and colleges to assess whether an applicant can study in an English-speaking academic environment.

It measures:

• Reading
• Writing
• Listening
• Speaking

It also reports integrated subscores such as Literacy, Comprehension, Conversation and Production. Duolingo scores are reported on a 10–160 scale, and the official Duolingo score guide explains score comparisons with CEFR, IELTS and TOEFL iBT.

The test is popular because it can be taken online, results are usually available quickly, and applicants can send scores to institutions digitally. Before booking, check the official Duolingo test environment and ID requirements, as the testing rules are strict.

For applicants still deciding between test options, BHE UNI’s Duolingo preparation page may also help you understand whether DET is the right route for your application.

How widely is Duolingo accepted in Canada?

Duolingo’s own Canada guidance says the test is recognised across Canada for 450+ academic programmes, and all Anglophone U15 institutions accept the Duolingo English Test in some capacity for undergraduate admissions. You can also cross-check institutions through Duolingo’s official accepting institutions database.

That said, “accepted in some capacity” does not mean every programme at every university accepts the same score. A central admissions page may allow DET, while a specific faculty or graduate department may ask for IELTS, TOEFL or a higher Duolingo score.

Use Duolingo’s database as a starting point, then verify the exact programme requirement on the university’s official website.

Duolingo score requirements for Canadian universities

For many Canadian universities, the usual Duolingo score requirement falls into a predictable range:

• 105–110 for some less competitive undergraduate or pathway routes
• 110–120 for many standard undergraduate programmes
• 120–125 for many graduate or selective programmes
• 125+ where subscores or competitive admission matter

A general Arts, Humanities or Business route may have a different requirement from Nursing, Education, Engineering, Computer Science or a research-based master’s degree.

Before applying, check both the university’s main English language requirement page and your exact programme page. If the two pages show different requirements, follow the stricter one or email admissions for written confirmation.

105 Duolingo accepted universities in Canada: Is 105 enough?

A Duolingo score of 105 can be enough for some Canadian institutions, but it is not a strong universal score.

It may work for:

• selected colleges
• some pathway programmes
• some private universities
• certain undergraduate routes
• institutions with flexible English language options

It may not be enough for:

• top research universities
• direct entry into competitive degrees
• many master’s programmes
• Nursing, Education, Engineering or Computer Science
• programmes with minimum subscore rules

If your current score is 105, shortlist institutions that clearly publish 105 as acceptable, then check whether that score applies to your exact course. If your target programme asks for 110 or 115, retaking the test may be better than applying with a weak score.

Applicants comparing lower-cost options can also review BHE UNI’s guide to the cheapest universities in Canada for international students, but English requirements should still be checked separately.

Duolingo accepted universities in Canada for master’s

Duolingo is accepted for some master’s programmes in Canada, but graduate admission is usually stricter than undergraduate admission.

A university may accept DET for bachelor’s degrees but require a higher score, IELTS, TOEFL or department approval for a master’s programme. Some departments also set subscore requirements, especially where academic writing, presentations or professional communication are important.

For master’s applicants, a sensible Duolingo target is usually 120–125. For competitive programmes, aim higher if possible.

Before applying for a master’s degree, check:

• the university’s graduate admissions page
• the department’s English language requirement
• whether DET is accepted for the exact programme
• the overall score requirement
• any minimum subscore requirement
• how recent the test result must be

This is especially important for Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Public Health, Education, Nursing and research-based degrees.

Duolingo accepted colleges in Canada

Many Canadian colleges accept the Duolingo English Test for diploma, certificate, postgraduate diploma and pathway programmes. Colleges are often more flexible than research-intensive universities, although requirements still vary by institution and course.

Typical Duolingo scores for colleges are often around 95–110. Some pathway or vocational programmes may accept lower scores, but this should always be confirmed directly.

College or institution	Province	Typical DET range	Notes
Algonquin College	Ontario	95–105	Programme-specific requirements apply
Sheridan College	Ontario	95–105	Popular for design, animation, media and business
Fanshawe College	Ontario	95–105	Check the exact programme page
Fleming College	Ontario	95–105	Requirements may vary by campus
British Columbia Institute of Technology	British Columbia	100–110	Technical programmes may be stricter
LaSalle College Montréal	Québec	Programme-specific	Check the current admissions page
CDI College	Multiple provinces	Programme-specific	Requirements vary by campus
Trebas Institute Montréal	Québec	Programme-specific	Confirm before applying
Montreal Career College	Québec	Programme-specific	Verify whether DET is accepted for the exact programme
Montreal Vocational College	Québec	Programme-specific	Low-score claims should be checked directly

Private and vocational college requirements can change quickly. If a college claims to accept a lower DET score, ask admissions to confirm it in writing before paying any application or deposit fee.

For wider Canada planning, you may also find BHE UNI’s study in Canada page useful.

Duolingo vs IELTS vs TOEFL for Canadian universities

Canadian universities usually treat Duolingo as one English test option among several. IELTS Academic and TOEFL iBT remain widely recognised, while DET has become more common because it is online, fast and convenient.

Feature	Duolingo English Test	IELTS Academic	TOEFL iBT
Format	Online and adaptive	Test centre or computer-based	Test centre or online in some regions
Test length	About one hour	Around 2 hours 45 minutes	Around 2 hours
Score scale	10–160	0–9 bands	0–120 historical iBT scale
Result time	Usually fast	Usually a few days	Usually a few days
Best for	Fast university applications	Broad recognition	Academic applications, especially North America
Main limitation	Not accepted by every programme	Less flexible and often more expensive	Test availability can vary

A Duolingo score around 110–120 is often considered close to the range many universities associate with IELTS 6.5–7.0, but score comparisons are only guidance. The university’s own requirement is what matters.

If you are still deciding between tests, compare BHE UNI’s pages on IELTS, TOEFL, PTE and Duolingo. Applicants who want to avoid IELTS should also check the guide on universities in Canada without IELTS.

Duolingo test for Canada study permit

Duolingo is mainly an admissions English test. It helps you meet the English requirement of a university or college if that institution accepts DET.

For a Canada study permit, IRCC assesses your full application, including your Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution, financial documents, identity documents and other supporting evidence. Duolingo alone does not approve or refuse a study permit.

Canada ended the Student Direct Stream and Nigeria Student Express on 8 November 2024. Applicants who previously would have used SDS now apply through the regular study permit process.

This matters because older articles may still discuss SDS and IELTS requirements in a way that no longer reflects the current process. For 2026 applicants, the better question is:

Does my Canadian university or college accept Duolingo for my chosen programme and issue a valid Letter of Acceptance?

If the answer is yes, DET can support your admission route. For immigration, you still need to meet all current IRCC study permit requirements.

Is Duolingo accepted in Canada for PR?

No. The Duolingo English Test is not normally accepted for Canadian Permanent Residency language proof.

For PR and many immigration pathways, applicants usually need an IRCC-approved immigration language test, such as IELTS General Training, CELPIP General, PTE Core or an approved French test. This is separate from university admission testing.

This distinction is important. Duolingo may help you get admission to a Canadian university or college, but it does not replace an immigration-approved test for PR.

If your long-term plan includes settlement after graduation, read BHE UNI’s guides on how to get PR in Canada after study and the best courses in Canada for PR.

How to check whether a Canadian university accepts Duolingo

Do not rely only on a list article. Requirements change, and some universities accept Duolingo only for selected programmes.

Use this process before applying:

1. Search the university name with “English language requirements”.
2. Open the official admissions page.
3. Look for “Duolingo English Test” or “DET”.
4. Check the overall score requirement.
5. Check whether subscores are required.
6. Confirm whether it applies to undergraduate, graduate or pathway admission.
7. Open your exact programme page.
8. If anything is unclear, email admissions.

When emailing admissions, mention your programme, intake, study level and current DET score. Ask whether Duolingo is accepted for direct admission and whether any subscore minimum applies.

A short confirmation from admissions is safer than relying on an old screenshot or third-party list.

How to send Duolingo scores to Canadian universities

After receiving your Duolingo English Test result, you can send your score from your Duolingo account to institutions that accept it.

Before sending your score, check that:

• your university accepts DET
• your programme accepts DET
• your score meets the minimum requirement
• your subscores meet the requirement, if applicable
• your name matches your passport and application documents
• the test date falls within the university’s validity period
• the score is sent before the deadline

Most universities treat English test results as valid for about two years, but policies vary. Always check the university’s current rule.

Should you choose Duolingo, IELTS or TOEFL for Canada?

Choose Duolingo if your target institutions clearly accept it and you need a fast, flexible English test. It can be useful if IELTS or TOEFL test centres are far away, expensive or unavailable before your application deadline.

Choose IELTS or TOEFL if:

• your dream university does not accept Duolingo
• your programme requires IELTS or TOEFL specifically
• you are applying to several countries and want broader recognition
• you need an immigration-approved test later
• your programme is professional, regulated or highly competitive

Many applicants use a mixed strategy. They take Duolingo first for speed and early applications, then take IELTS or TOEFL later if a specific university, scholarship or immigration route requires it.

That approach can work, but only if you plan your deadlines carefully.

How to prepare for the Duolingo English Test

The Duolingo English Test is shorter than IELTS or TOEFL, but it still needs preparation. The test moves quickly, and the adaptive format can feel unfamiliar if you have not practised.

Learn the test format first

Before studying grammar or vocabulary, understand the question types. You may need to:

• identify real English words
• listen and type what you hear
• complete missing words or letters
• describe an image
• answer spoken questions
• write short responses
• speak about a prompt

Many applicants lose marks because they are surprised by the format, not because their English is too weak.

Build academic English

Canadian universities want students who can manage lectures, assignments, discussions and written communication. Prepare with that goal in mind.

Read short academic articles. Listen to news, podcasts or lectures. Practise explaining your opinion clearly. Write short paragraphs with one main idea instead of memorising long templates.

Practise speaking clearly

Speaking is often uncomfortable because applicants are not used to answering questions on camera. Practise for 10 minutes a day. Record yourself answering simple questions such as:

• Why do you want to study in Canada?
• What subject do you want to study and why?
• Describe a challenge you solved.
• Do you prefer online learning or classroom learning?

Listen again. Notice where you pause too much, repeat words or lose grammar. Then answer the same question again with more control.

Improve short writing

Duolingo writing tasks are not long essays, but they still require clear expression. Practise writing 80–120 words on common topics such as education, technology, travel, work, culture and student life.

After writing, check whether your answer is direct, grammatically clean and easy to understand.

A simple 30-day Duolingo study plan

If your English is already around intermediate level, 30 days of focused practice can help you improve your score.

Days	Focus
1–3	Learn the format and take a practice test
4–10	Improve reading and listening accuracy
11–17	Practise speaking and writing under time limits
18–23	Take mock tests and review mistakes
24–27	Focus on weak question types
28–29	Prepare your ID, room and test setup
30	Take the test calmly

If your current English level is below B2, give yourself more time. A rushed test often leads to retakes, missed deadlines and unnecessary stress.

Common mistakes to avoid

Assuming every Canadian university accepts Duolingo

Many do, but not all. Even where DET is accepted, some programmes may require IELTS, TOEFL or higher scores.

Looking only at the overall score

Some universities require both an overall score and minimum subscores. A 120 overall score may still be a problem if one subscore is too low.

Confusing admission with immigration

Duolingo can help with university or college admission. It is not the same as an IRCC-approved language test for PR.

Trusting old SDS information

Student Direct Stream information before November 2024 may no longer apply because SDS has ended. Use current study permit guidance.

Applying with the lowest possible score

A low score may open some routes, but it can limit your choices. If you are aiming for stronger universities, competitive programmes or scholarships in Canada, a higher English score is usually worth the effort.

Frequently asked questions

Is Duolingo accepted in Canada in 2026?

Yes. Duolingo is accepted in Canada by many universities, colleges and pathway providers for admission in 2026. Acceptance depends on the institution, programme and study level.

Does Canada accept Duolingo English Test?

Many Canadian institutions accept the Duolingo English Test for admission. However, Duolingo is not used as a general immigration language test for PR.

What is the minimum Duolingo score for Canada?

The minimum Duolingo score for Canada is usually between 105 and 125 for universities. Some colleges and pathway programmes may accept scores around 95–105, while competitive programmes may require 120 or higher.

Is 105 Duolingo accepted in Canada?

Yes, 105 may be accepted by some Canadian colleges, pathway programmes and selected universities. It is not enough for every institution, and it may be weak for master’s or competitive programmes.

Which Canadian universities accept Duolingo English Test?

Canadian universities accepting Duolingo English Test include many well-known institutions, such as University of Alberta, University of Calgary, York University, Simon Fraser University, Concordia University, University of Manitoba, University of Saskatchewan, University of Guelph, Carleton University and others. Exact requirements vary by programme.

Is Duolingo accepted for master’s in Canada?

Yes, some Canadian universities accept Duolingo for master’s programmes. Graduate requirements are usually stricter, and many applicants should target 120–125 or higher.

Is Duolingo accepted for Canada study permit?

Duolingo is not a direct study permit language test. It can support your admission if your Canadian institution accepts DET and issues a Letter of Acceptance. Your study permit application is then assessed under IRCC rules.

Is Duolingo accepted in Canada for PR?

No. Duolingo is not normally accepted for Canadian PR language proof. PR applicants usually need an IRCC-approved immigration language test.

Can I study in Canada without IELTS using Duolingo?

Yes, if your chosen institution accepts the Duolingo English Test for your programme. Always confirm the official English requirement before applying.

Do Duolingo accepted colleges in Canada have lower score requirements?

Some colleges and pathway providers may have lower DET requirements than universities. Scores around 95–110 are common in many college contexts, but each institution sets its own rule.

Conclusion

Duolingo accepted universities in Canada give international applicants a faster and more flexible way to meet English language requirements. The test is widely recognised for admissions, and many Canadian universities and colleges now list it alongside IELTS, TOEFL and other English tests.

The safest strategy is to start with your programme, not the test. Check whether the institution accepts the Duolingo English Test for your exact course, compare your score with the official requirement, and aim higher than the minimum where possible.

For many undergraduate applicants, 110–115 may be enough. For stronger universities, master’s degrees and competitive programmes, 120–125 is a better target.

Duolingo can make the application process easier, but it should be used carefully. Check official requirements, avoid outdated visa advice, understand the difference between admission and immigration, and compare broader Canada study options for international students before you apply.