Duolingo Accepted Universities In UK: 2026 List & Scores

Duolingo accepted universities in UK are now far more common than most students realise, especially for non regulated courses at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. If you are asking, is Duolingo accepted in UK, the practical answer is yes, but always at course level rather than “the whole university”. That is why the smartest approach is to shortlist universities first, then confirm the Duolingo English Test requirement on your exact course page.

This guide covers how the Duolingo English Test accepted universities in UK policies work, typical minimum score ranges, universities in London, options for master’s applicants, and what to know about visa rules.

Quick answer: Is Duolingo English Test accepted in UK?

Yes. Many UK universities accept the Duolingo English Test (DET) as proof of English language ability for admission. However:

• Acceptance is usually programme specific, not universal across every course.
• Minimum scores can differ by department, subject, and level (UG, PG, and PhD).
• Some courses require minimum subscores in Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking.
• Some regulated routes (for example, many clinical programmes) may not accept DET at all.

So if you are searching do UK universities accept Duolingo English test, the right next step is to check your course page and the university’s English language requirements page.

What is a Duolingo test?

The Duolingo English Test is an online English proficiency exam taken from home. It assesses reading, writing, listening, and speaking, and produces:

• An overall score
• Individual subscores (or banded profiles, depending on how the university presents requirements)

Students often see DET listed alongside an IELTS Academic score and TOEFL iBT on university admissions pages, especially if you are exploring options for studying in the UK without IELTS.

How a Duolingo test is taken

DET is taken online using a computer with:

• A camera and microphone
• Stable internet
• A quiet, well lit room

Because the test is remotely proctored, your setup matters. A simple checklist helps you avoid cancellations or delays:

• Use a reliable laptop or desktop, not a shared device
• Keep your desk clear
• Ensure your ID matches your registration details
• Avoid background noise and interruptions

Why students choose Duolingo for UK applications

Most students choose DET for three reasons:

1. Easier access

You can book and take the exam from home without travelling to a test centre.

2. Faster results

Results are usually available within about two days, which helps when deadlines are close.

3. Cost planning

DET is often cheaper than traditional tests. The fee can change over time, so check the official Duolingo English Test site before purchase. If you are planning your budget for the year, it also helps to review UK scholarship options.

General acceptance of Duolingo English Test in the UK

A university may accept DET for many courses but exclude it for specific departments. This is why “Duolingo university list” pages can be helpful for discovery, but they are not a substitute for course level confirmation.

Use this simple three step check before you apply:

1. University English language requirements page
2. Your exact course page (UG or master’s requirements can differ)
3. Subscore rules (some courses require minimum subscores as well as an overall score)

If you want to reduce risk, aim a little above the published minimum, especially when subscores are listed.

Visa note: Is Duolingo enough for UK visa?

This is one of the most searched questions, and it needs careful wording.

• University admission rules decide whether your course accepts DET.
• Visa rules depend on your route and your sponsor’s process.

Some Student visa routes require a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider, while some degree level routes can meet English requirements through your university’s assessment and CAS process. Always follow the instructions given by your university when your CAS is issued, and check the latest GOV.UK guidance for your route.

Typical DET score ranges for UK universities

Exact requirements vary by course, but these ranges are a useful planning guide:

• Foundation and pathway: often around 85 to 100
• Undergraduate: commonly around 95 to 120
• Postgraduate and master’s: commonly around 110 to 130
• Highly selective courses: may ask for 120 to 140 with strong subscores

Top 10 Universities Accepting Duolingo English Test in the UK

1. University of Oxford

The University of Oxford is one of the world's most prestigious universities and the oldest in the English-speaking world. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various subjects.

The University of Oxford requires a DET score of 120 or higher for most undergraduate programs. However, some programs may have higher requirements. So, applicants should check with the specific program they are interested in to confirm the DET score requirements.

The application deadline for Oxford University varies based on the program. Usually, the deadline is October 15th of the year before admission. However, some programs may have earlier or later deadlines. You should check with the specific program you’re interested in to confirm the application deadline.

2. University of Cambridge

The University of Cambridge is known for its strong academic reputation and beautiful campus. It offers various undergraduate humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering undergraduate programs.

Cambridge requires a DET score of 130 for undergraduate admissions and 125 for graduate admissions. Some specific programs may have higher requirements.

The application deadline for Cambridge is October 15th of the year before admission. To apply for Cambridge, you must know each program's requirements and apply accordingly. For specific information, you can visit the university’s official website.

3. Imperial College London

Imperial College London is a leading university of science, engineering, and medicine in the UK. It is well-known for its innovative research and its distinguished alumni network. Imperial offers various undergraduate science, engineering, medicine, and business undergraduate programs. In the QS World University Ranking 2024, ICL is ranked 6th globally.

Imperial College London requires a DET score of 120 for admissions in undergraduate programs and a DET score of 115 for postgraduate admissions. There may be some specific programs that require higher DET scores. You should check with the specific program to confirm the DET score requirements.

To apply to Imperial, you must submit an online application and provide all the necessary supporting documents, including your academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The application deadline at ICL varies depending on the program, but is typically in the fall or winter.

4. University College London

University College London, or UCL, is another leading university in London. It is known for its diverse student body and wide range of undergraduate programs, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and medicine.

University College London requires a DET score of 120 for undergraduate admissions and 115 for graduate admissions. However, the requirements can be different for some specific programs or courses. So, check the specific DET requirement for each program.

For most programs at the University of Cambridge, the deadline is January 15th of the year before admission. However, some program courses may have earlier or later deadlines.

5. University of Glasgow

The University of Glasgow, founded in 1451, is one of the UK's oldest and most prestigious universities, renowned for its research excellence and vibrant academic community. The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including Arts and Humanities, Science and Engineering, Social Sciences, Business and Management, and Medical, Veterinary, and Life Sciences. Students benefit from a rich academic environment supported by leading faculty and state-of-the-art facilities.

Admission to the University of Glasgow is competitive, with high academic standards for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Undergraduate applicants are typically required to have strong A-level results or equivalent qualifications, while postgraduate applicants need a relevant undergraduate degree with a solid academic record. Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency in English, with minimum scores required on tests such as IELTS (6.5 overall), TOEFL iBT (90 overall), or DET (115 overall). Specific programs may have higher score requirements, so applicants should verify with their chosen department.

Application deadlines at the University of Glasgow vary by program. The general deadline for undergraduate applications is January 15th, with an earlier deadline of October 15th for Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, and Dentistry. Postgraduate program deadlines differ significantly, and prospective students should check the specific dates for their intended courses. The university's historic campus, with modern facilities and a supportive community, provides a stimulating academic and personal growth environment, fostering a diverse and inclusive student body.

6. Queen’s University Belfast

Queen’s University Belfast, established in 1845, is a prestigious institution in Northern Ireland’s capital. As a member of the Russell Group, it offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields such as Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, Engineering and Physical Sciences, Medicine, Health and Life Sciences, and Business. Renowned for its research excellence, the university provides students access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant academic community.

Admission to Queen’s University Belfast is competitive. Undergraduate applicants typically need strong A-level results or equivalent qualifications, while postgraduate applicants must hold a relevant undergraduate degree with a solid academic record. Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English proficiency through tests such as IELTS, with a minimum overall score of 6.5. Some programs may have higher requirements, so applicants should check specific course details.

Application deadlines vary by program. The general deadline for undergraduate applications is January 25th, with an earlier deadline of October 15th for Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary Science. Postgraduate deadlines differ by course, so prospective students should check specific dates. Queen’s University Belfast offers historic and modern facilities, providing students with a rich cultural and academic environment.

7. University of Leeds

The University of Leeds is a leading public university in northern England. It is popular for its strong academic reputation and lively student life. Leeds offers numerous undergraduate and postgraduate programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering.

The University of Leeds accepts a DET score of 120 or higher for undergraduate programs. The required DET score varies for postgraduate programs.

Applications to the University of Leeds can be submitted online through the UCAS website. The deadline for undergraduate applications is usually January 15th, but the deadline for postgraduate applications varies depending on the program.

8. University of Southampton

The University of Southampton is a public research university in Southampton, Hampshire, England. It is one of the top universities in the UK, ranked among the top 100 universities in the world by several major ranking organisations.

The University of Southampton requires a DET score of 115 for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions. However, some specific programs might have higher DET requirements.

The application process for the University of Southampton varies depending on the program to which you are applying. However, most applications are made through the UCAS. The deadline for undergraduate applications is January 15th.

9. University of Birmingham

The University of Birmingham is another great public research university in Birmingham, England. It’s one of the largest universities in the United Kingdom, with over 33,000 students. The University of Birmingham is ranked 84th in the QS World University Rankings 2024.

Birmingham University accepts a DET score of 120 or higher for undergraduate admissions. The required DET score for postgraduate admissions generally varies depending on the program.

You can apply for admission to the University of Birmingham through UCAS. The deadline is usually January 15^th. On the other hand, the deadline for postgraduate applications varies based on the program.

10. University of Bristol

The University of Bristol is a public research university in Bristol, England. It is one of the oldest universities in the UK and is known for its research in medicine, engineering, and the arts and humanities.

The University of Bristol requires a DET score of 115 for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions.

Applications to Bristol can be submitted online through the UCAS website. The deadline for undergraduate applications is January 15th, and the deadline for postgraduate applications varies by program.

Duolingo Accepted Universities in UK for 2026: Minimum Score Requirements

Many UK universities now accept the Duolingo English Test for admissions. Below is a list of universities and their minimum accepted scores for 2026. Program-specific requirements may vary.

DET bands (verified)

University	DET requirement (overall + subscores)
Imperial College London	Standard: 115 overall, ≥105 each integrated subscore. Higher: 125 overall, ≥115 each integrated subscore.
University of Southampton	Band A–E (B2): 120 overall (subs vary by band). Band F–I (C1): 130 overall. Subscores shown per band (e.g., Band F reading 120, writing 130, etc.).
University of Reading	125 overall with ≥100 in each individual subscore (Speaking/Reading/Writing/Listening).
University of Surrey	IELTS 6.5 equiv: 120 overall, ≥110 each (or Reading/Speaking/Listening ≥100, Writing ≥110 for some bands). IELTS 7.0 equiv: 130 overall, ≥120 each. IELTS 7.5 equiv: 140 overall, ≥130 each.
University of Liverpool	125 overall; typical minima noted on course pages (e.g., Eng. Lit. 125 overall; S/R/W ≥105, L ≥100).
University of Warwick	DET accepted; only tests with individual R/W/S/L subscores. For (incoming exchange) guidance: 120 overall, ≥110 each. Degree programme minima can vary by department.
Royal Holloway, University of London	DET accepted; example (study abroad/exchange): 120 overall, no subscore <100. Degree-entry bands vary by subject.

DET accepted (band varies by programme; check your course)

• Abertay University – see English language requirements on course pages.
• Anglia Ruskin University – DET commonly accepted; bands vary by faculty.
• Arden University – DET accepted (programme-specific).
• Aston University – DET listed among accepted tests depending on course.
• Bangor University – DET accepted; programme bands apply.
• Bath Spa University – DET accepted; check course page.
• Bournemouth University – DET accepted in place of IELTS on many UG/PG courses.
• Cardiff University – DET appears in limited contexts (e.g., certain routes); verify on course page.
• Coventry University – DET accepted; banding by faculty.
• Cranfield University – DET accepted on many master’s courses; programme pages list scores.
• De Montfort University – DET accepted; check departmental pages.
• Durham University – DET accepted for some programmes; verify your course.
• Edge Hill University – DET accepted; programme pages list specifics.
• Goldsmiths, University of London – DET accepted; banded by department.
• Keele University – DET accepted; check course.
• Leeds Beckett University – DET accepted; programme bands.
• Leeds Trinity University – DET accepted; confirm course.
• Liverpool John Moores University – DET accepted; course pages hold bands.
• London Metropolitan University – DET accepted; verify per course.
• London South Bank University – DET accepted; programme-level bands.
• Middlesex University – DET accepted; course pages list scores.
• Newcastle University – DET accepted; departmental bands.
• Northumbria University – DET accepted; check course.
• Northeastern University, London – DET accepted; programme pages list details.
• Oxford Brookes University – DET accepted; check course.
• Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh – DET accepted; course pages list scores.
• Queen Mary University of London – DET accepted; banded by school/department.
• Queen’s University Belfast – DET accepted; programme bands.
• Regent’s University London – DET accepted; confirm programme.
• Sheffield Hallam University – DET accepted; course pages list bands.
• Solent University – DET accepted; course pages list bands.
• SOAS University of London – DET accepted; departmental bands.
• St Mary’s University, Twickenham – DET accepted; check programme.
• Swansea University – DET accepted; departmental bands.
• Ulster University – DET accepted; course-specific.
• University College Birmingham – DET accepted; programme pages.
• University College London – DET accepted on some programmes; check departmental page.
• University for the Creative Arts – DET accepted; programme-specific.
• University of Aberdeen – DET accepted; programme pages.
• University of Bath – DET accepted; typical bands around 120–130 overall depending on course; confirm on page.
• University of Bedfordshire – DET accepted; departmental bands.
• University of Birmingham – DET accepted in some contexts; confirm on your course page.
• University of Bolton – DET accepted; check course.
• University of Bradford – DET accepted; programme bands.
• University of Brighton – DET accepted; course pages.
• University of Bristol – DET accepted for some programmes; check programme.
• University of Chester – DET accepted; confirm course.
• University of Derby – DET accepted; programme pages.
• University of East Anglia – DET accepted; equivalency depends on profile; see UEA equivalencies.
• University of Exeter – DET accepted but mapped to profiles (B1/B2 etc.); check the profile for your programme.
• University of Greenwich – DET accepted; course pages.
• University of Hertfordshire – DET accepted; bands vary.
• University of Huddersfield – DET accepted; confirm on course.
• University of Hull – DET accepted; course pages.
• University of Kent – DET accepted; banded by school.
• University of Leeds – DET acceptance depends on context; many degree pages route to IELTS bands; DET appears for some short-term/summer routes (e.g., LISS 95 overall). Degree programmes: check department.
• University of Leicester – DET accepted; departmental bands.
• University of Lincoln – DET accepted; course pages.
• University of Plymouth – DET accepted; programme pages (UPIC pathway has its own).
• University of Portsmouth – DET accepted with credibility interview noted on country pages; degree-level band shown on course pages.
• University of Roehampton – DET accepted; bands by programme.
• University of Salford – DET accepted; programme pages.
• University of Strathclyde – DET accepted; check course.
• University of Sussex – DET accepted; programme pages.
• University of the West of England – DET accepted; course pages.
• University of West London – DET accepted; course pages.
• University of Westminster – DET accepted; course/college bands.
• University of York – DET accepted (HYMS excluded); scores vary by department; see 2026/27 English-tests page.
• York St John University – DET accepted; confirm on course.

Notes

• “DET accepted; band varies” means the university does accept Duolingo, but there isn’t a single, universal score; it depends on the department/band/profile. Use the linked English-requirements pages or your exact course page to pull the score.
• Professional/regulated programmes (Medicine, Nursing, etc.) often do not accept DET or require higher bands.

 

How to prepare for the Duolingo English Test

Understand the structure

DET is computer-adaptive. The difficulty adjusts based on your answers. The test measures reading, writing, listening, and speaking, and it is designed to be completed in about an hour.

Build a preparation routine (that actually works)

• Practise daily, even if it is only 20 minutes
• Train typing speed for writing tasks
• Record yourself speaking and listen back for clarity and pace
• Focus on vocabulary used in academic topics (education, society, environment, technology)
• Use timed practice so you do not panic on test day

Test-day checklist

• Use a quiet room with good lighting
• Close background apps and notifications
• Test your microphone and camera in advance
• Keep your ID ready and make sure the name matches your application documents

Common mistakes students make with Duolingo for UK admissions

1. Assuming acceptance is university-wide

Many UK universities apply DET rules by faculty or department.

2. Ignoring subscores

Some courses reject an application if one subscore is below the minimum, even if the overall score is fine.

3. Mixing up admission rules with visa rules

A university may accept DET for admission while still requiring additional English steps later, depending on route and CAS guidance.

4. Applying with a score that will expire before enrolment

Plan around intake start dates and CAS timelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Duolingo English Test accepted in UK?

Yes, Duolingo English Test accepted in UK is a real pathway for many universities. Acceptance is usually course specific, so always confirm at programme level.

How many universities accept Duolingo English Test in UK?

As of February 2026, more than 100 UK universities accept the Duolingo English Test as proof of English language proficiency for international students. The number changes as universities update their policies, so the safest practice is to check course pages at each university.

Is Duolingo enough for UK visa?

Admission acceptance and visa English evidence are separate. Some Student visa routes require a Secure English Language Test from an approved provider. Some routes can meet English requirements through sponsor assessment at degree level. Follow your university CAS guidance and GOV.UK rules for your route.

Which university accepts the Duolingo test in Central London?

Several universities in Central London accept the Duolingo test, including Imperial College London, King's College London, University College London, Birkbeck, University of London, Queen Mary University of London, and City University of London.

Is 115 a good score in Duolingo?

115 score on the Duolingo test is considered the upper-intermediate level of English proficiency. It is equivalent to an IELTS score of 6.5. So, it’s a good score.

What is the lowest score on Duolingo?

The lowest Duolingo English Test score is 10. It is considered to be a beginner level of English proficiency.

Does Cambridge accept Duolingo English Test?

Acceptance and score requirements can vary by programme and route. Always check the official programme requirement page.

Does UCAS accept Duolingo English Test?

UCAS is the undergraduate application platform, but English evidence is decided by the university and the course. If your chosen university accepts DET for your course, you can use it as part of meeting the English language condition.

Conclusion

The safest way to shortlist Duolingo accepted Universities in the UK is to treat Duolingo acceptance as course-specific, not university-wide. Start with the English requirements page, confirm details on your exact programme page, and check whether subscores are required.

If you want support with course checks and score planning, BHE UNI can help you match each programme to its English requirement profile and build a clean timeline for Duolingo Accepted Universities In UK without guesswork.