Absolutely—a lot of universities in the USA, UK, and Canada now accept the Duolingo English Test (DET) as proof of English proficiency. Here’s a concise breakdown with key details and real-world feedback:
United States (USA)
- Many universities accept DET, including prestigious names:
- Harvard University, Yale, Stanford, NYU Stern, MIT, Cornell, University of Pennsylvania, UC Berkeley, George Mason, Arizona State, University of South Florida, Colorado State, and more EdvoyLeverage EduAECC Search.
- Some require specific minimum scores—for example, Harvard typically expects around 125, while universities like UC Berkeley or Duke might accept scores between 100–115 Leverage Edu+1.
- Visa-wise, DET is accepted for student visa applications to the USA through institutions recognizing the test Leverage Edu+1.
- However, a few elite institutions like Princeton or Amherst do not accept DET, and some others may only treat it as supplemental to TOEFL/IELTS Reddit+1.
A student shared:
“Duolingo English Test is accepted in almost schools except Princeton & University of Miami… your score will be out within 48 hours.” Reddit
United Kingdom (UK)
- Over 60 to 130+ UK universities now accept the DET, including:
- Imperial College London, University of Exeter, University of Liverpool, Aberdeen, Birmingham, Edinburgh, King’s College London, Manchester, Bristol, Sheffield, York, and many others Test CenterDuolingo Guidesbizzeducation.com.
- Minimum score requirements generally range between 105–130 depending on the university and program Duolingo Guidesbizzeducation.com.
- Important caveat: The UK government does not accept DET for student visas. If you need a visa, you’ll likely still need acceptable scores from tests like IELTS/TOEFL—even if the university accepts DET. bizzeducation.comBoost Education Service.
Canada
- DET is widely accepted by over 100 institutions, including top-tier ones such as:
- University of Toronto, McGill, University of British Columbia, University of Alberta, University of Waterloo, Western University, Dalhousie, Simon Fraser University, and more Yocket Study AbroadCollegedunia.
- Typical DET thresholds:
- Undergraduate: around 110
- Graduate programs: 120–125 CollegeduniaYocket Study Abroad.
- Overall, 416 Canadian institutions, including colleges and community schools, recognize DET Collegedunia.
Quick Summary Table
| Country | Acceptance | Score Range (Typical) | Visa Notes |
| USA | Many major universities, including Ivy Leagues and state schools | ~115–125+ depending on school | Accepted for visa if university accepts DET |
| UK | Over 60–130 institutions (e.g., Imperial, Liverpool, Edinburgh) | ~105–130 | Not accepted by UK Home Office for student visas |
| Canada | Widely accepted (100+ universities, colleges included) | Undergrad: ~110; Grad: ~120+ | Accepted by institutions for admission/visa |
What Students Say
- One student noted:
“Only Princeton & Amherst don’t accept DET… your score will be out within 48 hours.” Reddit
- Another mentioned:
“When I applied to McGill’s MSW program… I got the response: ‘Duolingo is accepted.’” Reddit
Final Take
Yes—Duolingo English Test is widely accepted in universities across the USA, UK, and Canada, but:
- Always check individual university and program requirements—some elite institutions may not accept it, or may require higher scores.
- For UK student visa purposes, you’ll likely need another accepted test (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL), even if your university accepts DET.
