Duolingo English Test is one of the popular English proficiency tests for working or studying in English-speaking countries. More than 6000 universities in the world accept the score of the Duolingo Test. Check the list of Duolingo Accepted Universities in USA, that you should know.
Over 3,100 US universities accept the Duolingo English Test for undergraduate and graduate admissions. The DET costs USD 70, takes 1 hour to complete online from home, delivers verified results within 48 hours, and includes free unlimited score reporting to institutions.
- Top Tier / Ivy League Requirement: 125 to 135+ (e.g., Columbia, Yale, NYU, CMU).
- Mid-Tier / High-Ranked Public Universities: 105 to 120 (e.g., ASU, UIUC, UT Arlington).
- Minimum Baseline / Pathway Programs: 90 to 100 (e.g., Kent State, CSU Northridge).
- Affordable: DET costs around USD 70. It is much cheaper than IELTS or TOEFL.
This article gives you the full list of Duolingo-accepting universities in USA. Whether you want an Ivy League school or a public university, you will find the right option here.
- Why Choose Duolingo Over IELTS or TOEFL in 2027?
- Top Ivy League US Universities Accepting Duolingo Scores (2027)
- US Universities Accepting Duolingo Scores Between 90 and 100
- FAQs Related to Duolingo Accepted Universities in USA
Why Choose Duolingo Over IELTS or TOEFL in 2027?
For the 2026 admission cycle, the Duolingo English Test (DET) has become the most strategic choice for "last-minute" applicants and budget-conscious students. Unlike traditional exams that require center visits, the DET is designed for the digital-first student. Do not worry, some of the top universities in the world accept Duolingo scores.
| Feature | Duolingo (DET) | IELTS Academic | TOEFL iBT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost (2026) | USD 70 (Approx. INR 6,500) | USD 215+ (Approx. INR 19,000) | USD 200+ (Approx. INR 18,000) |
| Duration | 1 Hour | 2 Hours 45 Mins | Under 2 Hours |
| Results | 48 Hours | 3 to 5 Days (Computer) | 4 to 8 Days |
| Score Sends | Unlimited (Free) | First 5 Free | First 4 Free |
Top Ivy League US Universities Accepting Duolingo Scores (2027)
For the 2026-2027 academic year, an increasing number of Tier-1 research institutions and Ivy League schools have integrated the Duolingo English Test (DET) into their formal admission requirements. These universities recognize the DET as a rigorous assessment of English proficiency, comparable to the IELTS or TOEFL iBT.
The following table categorizes prestigious US institutions that accept Duolingo scores for international undergraduate and graduate applications:
| Private & Ivy League Leaders | Top Public Research Universities | Leading Tech & State Institutions |
|---|---|---|
| New York University (NYU) | UC Berkeley | University of Southern California (USC) |
| Columbia University | University of Illinois (UIUC) | Arizona State University (ASU) |
| University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) | UC Los Angeles (UCLA) | Purdue University |
| Boston University | UC San Diego | Penn State University |
| Cornell University | University of Michigan | University of Texas at Austin |
| Carnegie Mellon University | University of Washington | UC Davis |
| Northeastern University | UC Irvine | Texas A&M University |
| Rutgers University | Ohio State University | University of Wisconsin-Madison |
US Universities Accepting Duolingo Scores Between 90 and 100
A Duolingo English Test score between 90 and 100 can help you get admission to many universities in the USA. While some highly competitive universities ask for a score of 120 or higher, several recognised US universities accept students with scores in this range.
If your Duolingo score is between 90 and 100, you can still apply for undergraduate programs, pathway courses, and selected degree programs. Some universities in USA may also offer additional English language support after admission.
The table below lists some US universities that accept Duolingo scores between 90 and 100 for admission in 2026.
| University | Minimum Duolingo Score | Program Level |
|---|---|---|
| University of Arizona | 100 | Undergraduate |
| Kent State University | 100 | Undergraduate |
| University of Oklahoma | 100 | Undergraduate |
| Arizona State University (ASU) | 95 | Undergraduate / Pathway |
| California State University, Northridge | 95 | Undergraduate |
Remember that admission requirements may vary by course. Always check the latest Duolingo score requirements on the university's official website before applying.
Apart from these Universities, you can check the detailed list of 3100+ Duolingo-accepted universities in USA on the official website. The comments section below allows candidates to contact us as well.
FAQs Related to Duolingo Accepted Universities in USA
Commonly asked questions
Every single day. It is available 365 days a year. Anytime. But you have a limit. You can buy only three tests in 30 days. If you fail, you must wait. Don't waste attempts.
Place your phone on your side (left or right). Slightly behind you. Do not place it directly in front or to side where it cannot see the screen. It must be in Landscape mode (horizontal).
Yes! After room scan you may be asked to perform an ear scan. You will need to keep your phone camera close to you. This proves you are not wearing wireless earbuds.
Duolingo English Test is available almost everywhere in the world. It is an online English proficiency test. You can take it from nearly any country. All you need is a reliable computer setup with internet.
Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum VitaeComments
(4)
M
2 years ago
M
3 years ago
A
3 years ago
R
3 years ago
Raj Vimal is an education writer and editor with over 8 years of experience. He helps Indian students find the right universities, visas, and courses abroad. Currently, he leads content strategies at InfoEdge India
Read Full Bio