Duolingo Accepted Universities in USA
International students can show their language proficiency while applying in US universities by taking the widely accepted Duolingo English Test. Top US universities are accepting Duolingo English Tests for the 2026 admissions cycle.
There are currently more than 3,100 colleges and universities in the USA that accept Duolingo Test scores for international student applicants. Some esteemed universities, including Yale University, Cornell University, Harvard University, and MIT, are also included in the list.
With every passing year, the number of universities in the US accepting the DET Scores is increasing. This change is a reflection of how well the test assesses language proficiency. The general score ranges approved for study at the undergraduate (UG) and master's levels are given below:
| Level of Study | Minimum Duolingo Score Range |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 100 - 120 |
| Masters | 100 - 120 |
Note: While the universities list down the minimum scores to qualify for the language proficiency criteria, it is advisable to secure a higher score.
Top US Universities Accepting Duolingo Scores for International Students
The Duolingo scores are widely accepted by some renowned universities in the US giving opportunities to international students to pursue various fields, whether in engineering or the creative field of arts and humanities.
Here are the top US universities accepting duolingo scores for international students:
| University Name | Minimum Duolingo Score |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Admissions | |
| Harvard University, Cambridge | 120 |
| Yale University, New Haven | 120 |
| Columbia University, New York | 135 |
| University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia | 130 |
| Dartmouth College, Hanover | 135 |
| Graduate Admissions | |
| MIT, Cambridge | 120-125 |
| Columbia University, New York | 125-130 |
| Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh | 105 |
| New York University, New York | 125 |
| University of Illinois, Illinois | 135 |
Note: The minimum DET score required to qualify the language proficiency criteria at each university for different subjects will vary. Therefore, thoroughly read through the admission criteria for your desired course and programme at your desired institution to qualify for admissions.
Duolingo Accepted Universities in USA: 130+
Scoring a minimum of 130 or above in the Duolingo Test is considered excellent and competitive. This leads to higher chances of acceptance of international students into various universities. Here is the list of the Duolingo-accepted universities in the USA that require a minimum score of 130 and above.
| University Name | Minimum Duolingo Score |
|---|---|
| Columbia University, New York | 135 |
| University of Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh | 130+ |
| Brown University, Rhode Island | 130 |
| Cornell University, Ithaca | 130+ |
| Vanderbilt University, Nashville | 130 |
Secure your place at a top USA university using your Duolingo English Test score. AECC’s expert counsellors are ready to match you with the best programmes that align with your career goals and fit your specific budget.
US Universities Accepting Duolingo Scores of 120-130
Having a Duolingo score between 120-130 also opens the door to opportunities for students wishing to apply to top-ranking universities in the USA. Here is the list of the Duolingo Accepted Universities in the USA that requires Duolingo scores between 120-130.
| University Name | Minimum DET Score |
|---|---|
| Harvard University, Cambridge | 125+ |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge | 120-125+ |
| New York University New York | 125+ |
| University of Rochester, New York | 120 |
| University of Illinois, Illinois | 120 |
Related Blog: Duolingo English Test Preparation Tips
Universities Accepting Duolingo Scores of 110-120
Scoring a 110-120 in the Duolingo Test is considered to be moderate. Some of the top universities in the USA offer courses to students who have secured a Duolingo score of 110-120, which are as follows:
| University Name | Minimum DET Score |
|---|---|
| University of California - Berkeley, Berkeley | 115 |
| Rice University, Houston | 115 |
| Purdue University, Indiana | 110 |
| University of Missouri, Missouri | 110 |
| University of California - Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara | 115 |
Duolingo Test Score Requirements for US Universities
As an alternative to conventional English proficiency exams like the TOEFL iBT and IELTS Academic, Duolingo English Test scores have grown in popularity. Duolingo scores are now being accepted by a number of US universities for admissions purposes.
Here are the requirements for the Duolingo Test Score :
- For admission purposes, US universities typically require a Duolingo English Test (DET) score of 120 or higher.
- International applicants are generally advised to aim for a DET score of 110 or higher.
- A score of 100+ on the Duolingo English test is also accepted by many universities for different bachelor's and master's programmes.
- Retaking the exam should be decided upon after considering the particular language requirements of the universities you are interested in attending.
The acceptance of Duolingo by US colleges signifies an important shift in the evaluation of foreign students' language proficiency. Compared to more established tests like the TOEFL and IELTS, Duolingo's exam is gaining more recognition due to its accessibility, affordability, and dependability.
This means that applying to American universities will be easier and less expensive for international students. It also shows a more inclusive approach to accepting diverse talent into US higher education institutions, thereby expanding the scope of educational opportunities available.
Get the full details on the Duolingo English Test and how it opens doors to top USA universities. Partner with AECC’s expert counsellors today to turn your study abroad dreams into reality.