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5 June 2025

7 minutes read

Duolingo English Test for University Admissions: A Smart Choice for Indian Students

Dirghayu Kaushik
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Dirghayu Kaushik

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Founder & CEO

Dirghayu Kaushik is the co-founder and CEO of Ambitio. He started this platform because he’s been in your shoes—navigating confusing websites, second-guessing college choices, and trying to make sense of what actually matters in an application. A graduate of IIT BHU, Dirghayu combines personal experience with data-backed guidance to help students apply smarter. Whether it’s choosing the right course, building a standout profile, or writing essays that don’t feel forced, his mission is simple: to make getting into your dream university less overwhelming, and a little more honest.

15 August 2024

7 minutes read

Key Takeaways

  • Duolingo for university admission offers a flexible, affordable alternative to traditional tests like IELTS and TOEFL, with results in just 48 hours.
  • A score of 120 is competitive, and Duolingo scores are accepted by universities worldwide, making it perfect for Indian students.
  • Registering and taking the test is easy: complete it online, and get quick results to accelerate your application process.

The Duolingo English Test (DET) has emerged as a smart choice for Indian students aiming for university admissions. With over 3,000 universities worldwide accepting Duolingo scores, including top US institutions like Yale University, it’s fast becoming a preferred option.

Many students face barriers with traditional English proficiency exams, but the Duolingo test offers a flexible, affordable, and convenient online alternative. Whether you’re applying to universities that accept Duolingo or aiming for a top-tier institution, it’s time to take the Duolingo test.

What is Duolingo English Test?

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is an online language proficiency exam accepted by many universities worldwide, including top universities in the USA. With a flexible format and a score range of 10-160, the test is adaptive and can be taken online from anywhere.

Universities accepting Duolingo scores, including Ivy League schools, provide an accessible option for international students, especially Indian students. Duolingo for university admission offers a convenient alternative to traditional English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS, with results available within 48 hours.

How Indian Students Can Benefit from Duolingo for University Admission?

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is an excellent option for Indian students seeking university admission, offering several advantages over traditional English language proficiency exams.

duolingo for university admission

Here’s how Indian students can benefit from Duolingo for university admission:

Global Recognition and Acceptance

Duolingo is accepted by a growing number of universities worldwide, including top institutions in the USA, like Ivy League universities. With Duolingo accepted universities in the USA, Indian students can apply to a wider range of schools using their Duolingo test scores. Many US universities accept Duolingo scores, providing a convenient and affordable alternative to traditional exams like TOEFL or IELTS.

Flexibility and Convenience

The Duolingo test is an online exam that can be taken from anywhere at any time, offering unmatched flexibility for Indian students. This adaptive test is designed to assess English language proficiency in a 60-minute exam, which means students can take the test as many times as needed to achieve their desired score, making it much more convenient compared to other English proficiency tests.

Affordable and Accessible

Compared to other English language proficiency exams, Duolingo is more affordable and accessible, particularly for international students like Indians. The cost-effectiveness, combined with the ability to take the test online, eliminates the need for travel and test center expenses, making it an ideal choice for students looking to save on costs.

Quick Results and Ease of Use

Duolingo provides test results within 48 hours, which allows Indian students to quickly submit their scores to universities that accept the Duolingo test. This fast turnaround time ensures that students can keep their application process moving without long waits for results, an issue often faced with other proficiency exams.

Universities Have Started Accepting Duolingo Test Scores

In 2023, many universities and colleges worldwide, including those in the USA, have started accepting Duolingo English test scores. Universities accepting Duolingo test scores are offering an easy, flexible, and efficient way for Indian students to prove their English proficiency and move forward with their applications for undergraduate or graduate programs.

Which Countries Accept Duolingo scores?

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is accepted by universities and institutions in several countries, making it an excellent choice for Indian students applying for university admission.

Many countries recognize the Duolingo test as a valid English proficiency exam, providing a flexible and affordable alternative to traditional language tests like TOEFL and IELTS. Below is a list of countries that accept Duolingo scores for university admission.

CountryDetails
USAUSA accept Duolingo scores for admission in many top universities, including universities in the USA accepting Duolingo test scores in 2023. The Duolingo test is recognized by hundreds of US universities.
UKMany universities in the UK have started accepting Duolingo test scores, providing an online alternative to traditional English language tests.
CanadaCanadian universities are now increasingly accepting Duolingo English proficiency scores for admission.
AustraliaAustralian universities also accept Duolingo scores as proof of English proficiency for international students.
GermanyDuolingo scores are accepted by various institutions in Germany for international applicants.
New ZealandNew Zealand universities accept the Duolingo English test for international students applying to undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
SingaporeDuolingo is accepted by top universities in Singapore, offering a convenient option for Indian students.
IndiaDuolingo scores are now accepted by various universities in India, making it easier for students to prove English proficiency for local and international programs.

This table highlights how Duolingo is being accepted in multiple countries, providing Indian students with a global opportunity to apply to universities that accept Duolingo scores. The ability to take the test online and get results within 48 hours makes it a convenient and fast option for international students.

Which Universities Accept the Duolingo English test?

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is increasingly recognized by universities worldwide, offering Indian students a convenient and affordable way to prove their English proficiency. Many universities accept Duolingo scores as part of their admission process, including top institutions in the USA and beyond.

The online format of the test, which provides quick results, makes it a practical alternative to other English proficiency exams like TOEFL and IELTS. Below is a list of duolingo accepted universities, including the minimum score required for admission:

UniversityCountryMinimum Duolingo Score Required
Harvard UniversityUSA120
Yale UniversityUSA115
University of California, BerkeleyUSA110
Columbia UniversityUSA120
University of TorontoCanada115
University of MelbourneAustralia100
National University of SingaporeSingapore105
University of SydneyAustralia110
University of BerlinGermany105
University of AmsterdamNetherlands100
McGill UniversityCanada110
University of AucklandNew Zealand100
University of MichiganUSA115
University of ChicagoUSA120

Duolingo Test vs. IELTS/TOEFL: What’s the Best Option for Indian Students?

When it comes to proving English language proficiency, Indian students often face a dilemma between traditional tests like IELTS and TOEFL and the increasingly popular Duolingo English Test (DET).

While IELTS and TOEFL have been the gold standard for years, the Duolingo test offers an accessible, convenient, and cost-effective alternative that is accepted by many universities in the USA and beyond. Let’s compare Duolingo English Test vs TOEFL vs IELTS to help Indian students make an informed decision.

FeatureDuolingo English TestIELTSTOEFL
Test FormatOnline test, adaptive, 60-minute durationPaper-based or computer-basedComputer-based or paper-based
Test ScoreScore range of 10-160, score of 120 is considered strongScore range of 0-9 (band score)Score range of 0-120
Acceptance by UniversitiesAccepted by Duolingo accepted universities in USA, and globally, including US universities accepting Duolingo test scoresAccepted by most universities worldwideAccepted by most universities worldwide
CostAffordable, generally cheaper than IELTS or TOEFLExpensive, around $250Expensive, around $200-$250
FlexibilityTake the Duolingo English test from home, can be retaken anytimeRequires a testing center; limited availabilityRequires a testing center; limited availability
Test Duration60-minute online test, faster results within 48 hoursAround 2-3 hoursAround 3-4 hours
Universities Accepting ScoresUniversities in USA accepting Duolingo, colleges that accept DuolingoThousands of universities worldwideThousands of universities worldwide
Test ResultsQuick results (within 48 hours)Results in 13 daysResults in 6-10 days
LocationTest online anywhere, flexible timingRequires physical presenceRequires physical presence

Key Differences:

  1. Test Flexibility: The Duolingo test allows Indian students to take the test online from the comfort of their home, offering much more flexibility compared to IELTS and TOEFL, which require physical attendance at designated test centers.
  2. Cost and Accessibility: With the growing acceptance of Duolingo for university admission, including many universities in the USA, the test has become a highly affordable and accessible option for students who want to avoid the high costs and logistical challenges of traditional tests like IELTS and TOEFL.
  3. Convenience: The Duolingo test duration is only 60 minutes, and results are available within 48 hours, making it a time-efficient and convenient choice for busy students.

Overall, for Indian students seeking a quicker, more affordable, and convenient option, the Duolingo English proficiency exam offers a strong alternative to IELTS and TOEFL, with many universities accepting Duolingo test scores globally.

What a good Duolingo English test scores?

A good Duolingo English test score typically ranges from 100-120, with scores of 120 being highly competitive for admission to top universities in the USA. Many US universities that accept Duolingo test scores require a minimum score around 100-110 for undergraduate and graduate programs.

The Duolingo test is an online exam, offering flexibility and accessibility for Indian students. With the increasing acceptance of Duolingo by universities in the US and globally, a strong score enhances your admission chances.

How to Register and take the Duolingo exam?

Registering and taking the Duolingo English Test is a straightforward process that can be completed entirely online. It offers flexibility for Indian students and others, allowing them to take the test from the comfort of their home.

duolingo for university admission

Here’s how to register and take the Duolingo exam:

  1. Create a Duolingo Account
    Visit the official Duolingo website and sign up for an account using your email address.
  2. Choose the Duolingo English Test
    After logging in, select the option for the Duolingo English Test from your dashboard.
  3. Pay for the Test
    Pay the test fee (typically around $49), which can be done securely online.
  4. Schedule Your Test
    You can take the test at any time that’s convenient for you, as the test is available online.
  5. Set Up the Test Environment
    Ensure you have a quiet space with a computer, camera, microphone, and a stable internet connection to meet the computer-based English competency test requirements.
  6. Take the Test
    The 60-minute online test includes speaking, writing, reading, and listening sections. Complete the test in one sitting.
  7. Receive Your Results
    Results are typically available within 48 hours, which you can send directly to the universities that accept DET scores.

Conclusion

Duolingo for university admission offers Indian students a flexible, affordable, and accessible way to prove their English language proficiency. With universities worldwide accepting Duolingo test scores, it’s an excellent alternative to traditional exams like IELTS and TOEFL.

If you’re an aspiring student aiming for a smooth, stress-free application process, Ambitio is here to help. As a leading study abroad consultancy, we specialize in profile building and personalized guidance, ensuring your application stands out.

Join Ambitio today, and let’s turn your study abroad dreams into reality with expert mentorship and tailored strategies!

FAQs

Is the Duolingo English Test accepted by all universities in the USA?

No, not all universities in the USA accept the Duolingo English Test. It is essential to check the specific requirements of each university.

How long is the Duolingo English Test valid?

The Duolingo English Test scores are valid for two years from the date of the test.

Can I take the Duolingo English Test from home?

Yes, the Duolingo English Test can be taken online from anywhere in the world, provided you have a stable internet connection and a quiet space to take the test.

What is the minimum Duolingo English Test score required for university admission?

The minimum Duolingo English Test score required for university admission varies by institution. Most universities require a minimum score of 120, but it is essential to check the specific requirements of each university.

How does the Duolingo English Test compare to other English proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL?

The Duolingo English Test is an online test that assesses your English language skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. It is more accessible, affordable, and offers quicker results compared to other tests like IELTS and TOEFL. However, not all universities accept Duolingo scores, so it’s essential to check the specific requirements of each institution.

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