Dr Mohammad Shafiq
Did you know that more and more Canadian universities are now accepting Duolingo English Test scores? This can be a game-changer for international students dreaming of studying in Canada! Unlike traditional language tests, Duolingo is affordable, flexible, and can be taken from the comfort of your home. But which schools actually accept it, and what scores do you need to impress admissions?
In this article, we’ll explore the comprehensive list of Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada, covering everything from top-tier institutions to program-specific requirements. Whether you're exploring study options or planning to apply soon, get ready to gain valuable insights that could simplify your path to studying in Canada.
The Duolingo English Test (DET) is an online proficiency exam developed by the creators of the language-learning platform Duolingo. It is designed to assess an individual's English language skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
The DET offers a convenient, flexible, and cost-effective alternative to traditional English proficiency tests like TOEFL and IELTS, with its online format, adaptive testing, and quick results. However, its recognition and acceptance by institutions may vary compared to the more established tests. Here's a breakdown of the key differences and similarities between these popular English proficiency tests:
Here's a breakdown of the key differences and similarities between these popular English proficiency tests:
Feature |
Duolingo English Test (DET) |
IELTS |
TOEFL iBT |
Format |
Online, computer-based, adaptive (difficulty adjusts to your ability). Takes 1 hour. |
Offered in paper and computer-based formats, fixed-format across all sections. Takes 2.5-3 hours. |
Offered online and in test centres are adaptive reading and listening sections and fixed-format speaking and writing sections. Takes 2.5 hours. |
Cost |
$49 USD, send scores to 40 institutions for free.
|
$220-340 USD, depending on location and format, as well as additional fees for score reports. |
$215 USD (online), $250 USD (test centre), and additional fees for score reports.
|
Acceptance |
Accepted by over 4,795 institutions worldwide, primarily universities.
|
Accepted by over 3,400 institutions worldwide, similar scope to TOEFL.
|
Accepted by over 11,000 institutions worldwide, including universities, businesses, and government agencies.
|
Focus |
Tests all four English skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking) with a focus on real-world communication and integrated skills.
|
Similar structure to TOEFL with separate sections and an academic and general training format.
|
Separate sections for each skill, with a stronger emphasis on academic English.
|
Other key differences |
Shorter test duration, faster score turnaround (48 hours), video interview for speaking section.
|
Paper-based options are available, and a wider range of institutions globally accept them.
|
More widely accepted, separate speaking and writing tests, computer-based and paper-based options.
|
Also Read:
Recognition and acceptance of the Duolingo English Test (DET) by Canadian universities have grown steadily in recent years. Now you might have a question is Duolingo accepted in Canadian universities? Well, the good news is many universities across Canada have started accepting DET scores as part of their admissions requirements for international students.
As of this writing, more than 150 universities in Canada now accept the Duolingo English Test. Here is a top 10 list of universities accepting Duolingo in Canada.
Here are the top 10 Duolingo-accepted universities in Canada for the 2025 academic year, including their minimum Duolingo English Test (DET) score requirements:
Serial No. | University Name | Minimum DET Score Requirement |
---|---|---|
1 | University of Toronto | 120 |
2 | McGill University | 120-125 |
3 | University of British Columbia | 125 |
4 | University of Alberta | 120 |
5 | York University | 120-140 |
6 | Cape Breton University | 120 |
7 | University of Calgary | 125 |
8 | Concordia University | 120 |
9 | Algoma University | 110 |
10 | University of Windsor | 120 |
You can apply to numerous reputable Canadian universities that recognize Duolingo if your DET score exceeds 110. But if your score falls between 80 and 90, you can still get into some prestigious universities, with an IELTS score of 6.5 and a TOEFL score of 80. The following table shows the DET score requirements of the different universities.
University Name | DET Score Requirements (Minimum) |
---|---|
University of British Columbia | 120 |
Simon Fraser University | 125 |
University of Alberta | 120 |
Queen's University | 90 |
University of Calgary | 125 |
Western University | 100 |
University of Waterloo | 120 |
University of Saskatchewan | 110 |
McGill University | 115 |
Memorial University of Newfoundland | 115 |
University of Toronto | 120 |
University of Winnipeg | 120 |
University of Ottawa | 85 |
Ryerson University | 115 |
University of Montreal | 120 |
University of New Brunswick | 115 |
Dalhousie University | 115 |
Wilfrid Laurier University | 120 |
Université Laval | 115 |
Carleton University | 120 |
Concordia University | 120 |
York University | 115 |
McMaster University | 115 |
Cape Breton University | 115 |
Algoma University | 110 |
University of Windsor | 120 |
Mount Saint Vincent University | 105 |
Saint Mary's University | 105 |
Bishop's University | 110 |
University of Prince Edward Island | 110 |
Laurentian University | 105 |
Acadia University | 105 |
University of Guelph | 110 |
Ontario Tech University | 105 |
Brock University | 115 |
Lakehead University | 110 |
Thompson Rivers University | 110 |
Trent University | 110 |
Note: The minimum Duolingo English Test (DET) score requirements listed above are subject to change. Before applying, it's recommended that you verify specific score requirements and additional English proficiency criteria on the official websites of each university.
Reading Section
Writing Section
Listening Section
Speaking Section
Is Duolingo accepted in Canada universities?
Yes, Many universities across Canada accept the Duolingo test.
Can I still apply if I don't meet the minimum Duolingo score requirement?
No, you can’t apply if you don't meet the minimum Duolingo score requirement
How long are Duolingo test scores valid for?
Duolingo test scores valid for is generally valid for two years.
Is Duolingo valid for Canada study visa?
Yes, Duolingo is valid for a Canada study visa.
How much score is required in Duolingo for Canada?
A greater than 110 score is required in Duolingo for Canada.
The importance of the DET lies in its accessibility, convenience, and effectiveness as an alternative measure of English language proficiency, particularly in times when traditional testing options may be limited. The Duolingo accepted universities in Canada open up valuable opportunities for international students seeking admission to Canadian institutions.
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