Did you know that the Duolingo English Test is now accepted at hundreds of universities across the USA? Gone are the days when students had to rely solely on traditional tests like TOEFL and IELTS for admissions. For international students, this shift brings a more accessible and affordable path to fulfilling English language requirements.
This article dives into the growing list of Duolingo Accepted Universities in USA, explaining why more institutions are embracing this test and what that means for aspiring students. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of which universities accept Duolingo, the benefits of choosing this test, and how it could ease your journey to studying in the USA.
Understanding the Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test (DET) is an online language proficiency exam used to evaluate a person's English language skills. It estimates the reading, writing, listening, and speaking abilities of a test-taker in real time.
This test is cost-effective, accessible from anywhere, and provides quick results within 48 hours. Many educational institutions accept it as a valid measure of English proficiency. The test offers a flexible and efficient way for individuals to showcase their language skills for academic, employment, or visa-related purposes.
Comparison with other English proficiency tests (IELTS, TOEFL)
The Duolingo English Test differs from other English proficiency tests, such as IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), in several ways:
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Feature
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Duolingo English Test (DET)
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IELTS
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TOEFL iBT
|
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Test format
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Online, adaptive
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Paper-based or computer-based
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Computer-based
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Duration
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Approx. 60 minutes
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2 hours 45 minutes
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4 hours (Reading: 60 min, Listening: 41 min, Speaking: 20 min, Writing: 50 min)
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Skills tested
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Reading, writing, listening, speaking
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Reading, writing, listening, speaking
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Reading, writing, listening, speaking
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Test components
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Multiple choice, open-ended writing, video interview
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Reading, writing, listening, speaking (including an independent speaking task)
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Reading, listening, speaking, writing (including an integrated writing task)
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Scoring
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Scale of 10-160 with sub-scores for each skill
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A band score of 0-9 for each skill and an overall band score
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The score of 0-30 for each skill and an overall score of 0-120
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Cost
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$49 USD
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$215 - $285 USD
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$230 - $250 USD
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Results turnaround
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2 days
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13 days
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6-8 days
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Accessibility
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Take from anywhere with a computer, camera, and microphone
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Requires travelling to a test centre
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Requires travelling to a test centre
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Validity
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2 years
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2 years
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2 years
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Focus
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Basic and real-world English communication
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Academic and general English proficiency
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Academic and general English proficiency
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Benefits of the Duolingo English Test (DET)
- Online and anytime: Complete the test from anywhere with a computer, microphone, and webcam. You don't have to go to an examination facility.
- Flexible scheduling: Schedule the test at your convenience 24/7.
- Fast results: Receive your results within two business days.
- Cost-effectiveness: Significantly cheaper than other major English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
- AI Scoring: The Duolingo English Test utilises artificial intelligence for scoring. This ensures the fairness and consistency of the review process.
- Global Recognition: Many educational institutions, employers, and immigration agencies worldwide recognise the Duolingo English Test as a valid measure of English language proficiency.
- Two-Year Validity: The test results are valid for two years, offering a reasonable timeframe for individuals to use their scores for various applications.
- Video interview: Demonstrates your spoken English fluency and ability to express yourself in real-time.
- Adaptive format: Personalised test experience as the difficulty adjusts based on your performance.
- Widely accepted: Over 4,000 universities and institutions worldwide accept the DET.
- Transparency: The official score report provides detailed sub-scores for each skill.
Is Duolingo Accepted in USA Universities?
Now, you might have a question about how many universities in the USA accept Duolingo? Yes, the good news is that over 1700 universities and institutions in the USA now accept the DET, and this number is steadily growing.
While not all universities accept the DET, it is particularly embraced by public universities, community colleges, and smaller private institutions. Some prestigious universities, such as Stanford, Yale, and MIT, also accept the DET, although they may require higher score thresholds.
Top 10 Duolingo Accepted Universities in the USA for 2026
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University Name
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Minimum Duolingo Score (Typical Range)
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Key Notes
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Harvard University
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125
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Accepted for master's programs at Harvard Medical School. Competitive applicants often score higher.
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Yale University
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120
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Most competitive applicants have DET scores of at least 120. Widely accepted for both undergraduate and graduate programs.
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Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
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120
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Accepted for undergraduate admissions. The recommended score for competitive applicants is 125 or higher.
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Stanford University
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Not specified (competitive applicants aim for 120+)
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Duolingo accepted; no specific minimum score stated, but competitive applicants typically score 120 or higher.
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Columbia University
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135
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Minimum score required for undergraduate admission. Graduate programs may vary.
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University of Pennsylvania
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120-130
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Applicants must designate Penn as a recipient when registering for the exam. Does not accept TOEFL MyBest scores.
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Cornell University
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130
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Minimum score for admissions consideration. Some programs may require higher scores.
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University of Chicago
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105-120
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Accepted; no specific minimum score stated. Competitive programs may expect higher scores.
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University of California, Berkeley
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115
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Minimum score required for admission. Competitive programs may expect higher scores15.
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Duke University
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125 (graduate), 130 (undergraduate)
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Graduate School generally seeks 125+, while undergraduate admissions recommend.
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Important Considerations for 2026 Applications:
- Competitive Scores: For top-tier universities (e.g., Ivy League schools), achieving a score above the minimum (e.g., 125+) strengthens your application.
- Program-Specific Requirements: Always check the specific requirements for your intended program. For example:
- Columbia University requires a minimum of 135 for undergraduate admission.
- Harvard Medical School accepts Duolingo for master's programs with a score of 125.
- Additional Requirements: Some universities may have sub-score requirements (e.g., Johns Hopkins prefers a score of 125 in Literacy, 120 in Conversation, 135 in Comprehension, and 105 in Production).
- Score Validity: Duolingo scores are typically valid for two years. Ensure your test date aligns with application deadlines.
- Alternative Tests: Most universities also accept TOEFL or IELTS. For example:
- Stanford requires a TOEFL 90 or an IELTS 7 for graduate admission.
- Duke University requires a TOEFL 90 or an IELTS 7 for graduate programs.
List of Duolingo Accepted Universities in the USA
Below is a table summarising some of the key universities that accept Duolingo scores, along with their typical minimum score requirements and notes:
|
University Name
|
Minimum Duolingo Score
|
Notes
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Harvard University
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125
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Accepted for master's programs at Harvard Medical School
|
|
Yale University
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120
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Most competitive applicants have scores of at least 120
|
|
Princeton University
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125
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Accepted for Ph.D. and MSE programs in Computer Science
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|
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
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120
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Accepted for undergraduate admissions
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|
Stanford University
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Not specified
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Duolingo accepted; no specific minimum score stated
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|
University of Pennsylvania
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120-130
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Applicants must designate Penn as a recipient when registering
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|
Columbia University
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135
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Minimum score necessary for admission
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|
Cornell University
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120-130
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Minimum score for admissions consideration
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|
Dartmouth College
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135
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Minimum for Guarini School graduate programs
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|
University of Chicago
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105-120
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Accepted; no specific minimum score stated
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|
University of California, Berkeley
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115
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Minimum score required for admission
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|
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
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130
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Competitive score expected for admission
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|
New York University (NYU)
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125
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Minimum for Tandon School of Engineering
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Northwestern University
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105
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Duolingo accepted
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Johns Hopkins University
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120
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Preferred sub-scores: Literacy-125, Conversation-120, Comprehension-135, Production-105
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Purdue University
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110
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Minimum for graduate admissions
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University of Washington
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105 (min), 125+ (recommended)
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Minimum 105; recommended 125 or higher
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University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
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115
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Not accepted for teaching assistantship eligibility
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Northeastern University
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105
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Accepted
|
|
Vanderbilt University
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130
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Minimum for most graduate programs
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|
Rice University
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115
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Some programs may have more stringent requirements
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|
University of Wisconsin-Madison
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120
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Accepted for graduate programs starting Spring 2025
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|
University of Maryland
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120
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Scores between 115 and 119 may require the English Bridge Program
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Arizona State University
|
95
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Acceptance rate 90%
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California State University, Northridge
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95
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Acceptance rate 68%
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Kent State University
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100
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Acceptance rate 88%
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University of Michigan
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115-120
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Prestigious public research institution
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Boston University
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130
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Private research university
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Duke University
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115-130
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Recommended minimum of 130 for undergraduate admissions
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Carnegie Mellon University
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105-135
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Varies by program (e.g., 105 for Chemistry, 120 for others)
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Ohio State University
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120
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Accepted for graduate admissions
|
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University of Texas at Arlington
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100
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Accepted
|
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University of Connecticut
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100
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Accepted
|
|
University of Arizona
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105 (undergraduate), 100 (graduate)
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Engineering, Business, Health Science
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|
University of Colorado Boulder
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100
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Environmental Studies, Aerospace Engineering, Psychology
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Michigan State University (MSU)
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105
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Journalism, Business, Computer Science
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|
University of South California (USC)
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120
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Business, Computer Science, Media Studies
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|
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
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120-125
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Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science
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|
Florida International University
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105
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Public university in Miami
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|
Temple University
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90-110
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CAP is eligible for scores 90-95
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|
University of Houston
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105
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Public university in Texas
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|
Indiana University Bloomington
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115
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Public university
|
|
Washington University in St. Louis
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115
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Private university
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|
Amherst College
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120
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Liberal arts college
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Williams College
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125
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Liberal arts college
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Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI)
|
115
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AI, Biotechnology, Civil Engineering
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Key Points to Note:
- Score Variability: The minimum score requirements can differ significantly between universities and even within programs at the same university. For example:
- Carnegie Mellon requires 105 for Chemistry but 120 for other programs.
- Some universities, like the University of Maryland, may offer conditional admission or require additional English courses if scores are slightly below the minimum.
- Competitive Scores: For highly competitive universities (e.g., Ivy League schools), achieving a score above 120 is often necessary to strengthen your application.
- Graduate vs. Undergraduate: Graduate programs typically have higher score requirements than undergraduate programs. For instance:
- The University of Arizona requires 105 for undergraduates but 100 for graduates.
- Additional Requirements: Some universities may have sub-score requirements (e.g., Johns Hopkins) or may not accept Duolingo for specific purposes, such as teaching assistantships (e.g., University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign).
- Validity and Acceptance: Duolingo scores are generally valid for two years and are accepted by over 5,500 universities worldwide, including many in the USA 16. They are also recognised for U.S. student visa applications (F-1 visa) as long as the university accepts them.
How to Verify and Send Your Scores:
- Check Official Sources: Always verify the latest requirements directly on the university's official website or through Duolingo's institution portal (https://englishtest.duolingo.com/institutions).
- Send Scores Electronically: After taking the test, you can send your scores to universities directly from your Duolingo account. This process is usually fast (within 48 hours) and allows you to share results with an unlimited number of institutions at no extra cost.
Duolingo Test Preparation
Tips and Strategies
- Understand the Test Format: Familiarise yourself with the test structure, sections, and types of questions. The Duolingo English Test consists of speaking, writing, listening, and reading sections that assess various language skills.
- Create a Study Schedule: Dedicate regular study sessions to each test section. Put more time in the areas where you lack confidence.
- Practice Regularly: Language proficiency requires constant practice. Set aside time each day for language practice using various resources.
- Develop Vocabulary: Regularly learn new words and phrases to expand your vocabulary. Use flashcards, language apps, or online resources to reinforce vocabulary acquisition.
- Stay Calm and Focused: On test day, keep calm and concentrate. Manage your time wisely and read instructions carefully to avoid unnecessary mistakes.
Recommended Study Materials and Resources
- Duolingo English Test Official Website: Access practice tests, sample questions, and other resources directly from the official Duolingo English Test website.
- Language Learning Apps: Use apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or Rosetta Stone to practice grammar, vocabulary, and language skills interactively.
- Textbooks and Workbooks: Use English language textbooks and workbooks covering grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension exercises.
- Online Courses: To supplement your study materials, enrol in online English courses offered by platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or Khan Academy.
- English Language Websites: Explore websites like BBC Learning English, ESL Gold, or EnglishClub for grammar lessons, vocabulary exercises, and practice tests.
Things that Need Practice
- Review and Analyse Mistakes: After completing practice tests or exercises, review your mistakes to understand why you got them wrong and learn from them.
- Practice Speaking Aloud: Speak English aloud to improve your pronunciation, fluency, and confidence. Play it back to yourself once you have recorded your speech to see where you might improve.
- Improve Listening Skills: Listen to English podcasts or converse with native speakers to improve your listening comprehension skills.
How to Take the Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test (DET) involves several steps, including registration, understanding the test format, and ensuring minimum technical requirements. Here's a detailed guide on how to take the Duolingo English Test:
Registration Process for the Duolingo English Test
- Create an Account: Visit the official Duolingo English Test website and create an account using your email address or sign in with an existing Duolingo account.
- Schedule the Test: After creating an account, schedule your test session by selecting a date and time that is convenient for you. The test can be taken online at any time, as it is available 24/7.
- Pay the Fee: Pay the test fee using a credit/debit card, or one of the other accepted payment methods. The fee may vary depending on your location and any promotional offers available during registration.
- Check Confirmation: Once you've successfully registered and paid for the test, you'll receive a confirmation email with details about your test session, including the date, time, and instructions for accessing the test.
Test Format and Structure
The Duolingo English Test is an online proficiency exam designed to assess English language skills for academic and professional purposes. The Duolingo English Test mainly consists of four main sections:
- Speaking: In this section, you'll be prompted to respond to various spoken prompts, such as describing images, expressing opinions, or answering questions.
- Writing: You'll need to write responses to prompts or essays within a given time frame. This section evaluates your writing skills, including grammar, vocabulary, and coherence.
- Listening: You'll listen to recordings of conversations, lectures, or interviews and answer questions based on the audio content. This section assesses your listening comprehension skills.
- Reading: You'll read passages on different topics and answer comprehension questions to demonstrate your understanding of the text. This section evaluates reading comprehension, vocabulary, and inference skills.
Each section of the test is adaptive, meaning the difficulty level adjusts based on your responses, ensuring a personalised assessment experience.
Also Read:
Technical Requirements for Taking the Test
Before taking the Duolingo English Test, ensure that you meet the following technical requirements:
- Device: You can test on a desktop computer, laptop, or tablet with a stable internet connection.
- Browser: Use a supported web browser, such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, or Microsoft Edge, with the latest version installed.
- Operating System: The test is compatible with Windows, macOS, and some Linux distributions.
- Camera and Microphone: Ensure your device has a functioning camera and microphone for the speaking section, as you'll need to record your responses.
- System Requirements: Your device should meet Duolingo's minimum system requirements to ensure smooth performance during the test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do universities in the USA accept Duolingo?
Yes, over 1,700 universities in the USA accept the Duolingo English Test (DET) as an alternative to traditional exams like TOEFL and IELTS. The increasing acceptance provides a more accessible option for international students seeking admission.
How long is the Duolingo English Test score valid?
The DET score remains valid for two years from the test date, giving students a flexible window to apply to multiple universities.
Is the Duolingo exam accepted in the USA for visa applications?
Duolingo acceptance varies for U.S. visa applications. Some programs may require TOEFL or IELTS, so verifying the specific visa category and institution is essential.
How many universities in the USA accept the Duolingo English Test?
More than 1,700 U.S. universities now accept Duolingo, reflecting its growing popularity and recognition in American higher education.
What is the Duolingo English Test scoring system?
The DET scores range from 10 to 160 in 5-point increments, measuring overall English proficiency, including literacy, comprehension, and communication skills.
How long would it take me to finish the Duolingo test, and can I retake it?
The Duolingo test takes about one hour to complete. You can retake it as many times as you like, though there’s a 30-day limit of two attempts.
Which is better: IELTS or Duolingo?
Both tests are valuable, but IELTS has a longer track record in academic admissions. Duolingo is faster, more affordable, and more convenient, making it an ideal choice for students seeking a flexible learning option.
Conclusion
Now that we've identified the Duolingo Accepted Universities in USA, it's evident that the Duolingo English Test provides a convenient and accessible option for international students. These universities recognise the importance of offering accessible pathways for international students to showcase their English proficiency. The significant benefits of using Duolingo as an English proficiency assessment for studying in the USA are noteworthy.