UK Universities Accepting Duolingo English Test 2025 [Updated List]

As the global landscape of education continues to evolve, international students are carefully weighing their options for higher education. Despite challenges like rising costs and competitive admissions, the UK remains a top destination alongside the United States, Canada and Australia. Combined, these four countries are often referred to as the “Big 4” for study abroad. Known for academic excellence, innovation and a welcoming environment, the UK offers students a gateway to world-class education. In fact, the country is seeing record-breaking interest with over 605,000 international students enrolled during the 2022–2023 academic year, a testament to its enduring appeal.

Exam	Duolingo English Test
Conducted By	Duolingo
Conducted For	English Proficiency for higher studies
Duration	45 minutes
Cost	$59
Result	Within 24-48 hours

What Makes the UK Stand Out for Higher Education?

World-Class Universities:

• The UK is home to some of the world’s best academic institutions. According to the QS World University Rankings 2024, four of the top ten universities globally are in the UK, including the prestigious University of Oxford and University of Cambridge.
• These institutions consistently attract students worldwide with their rich academic heritage and cutting-edge research opportunities.

Diverse Academic Programmes:

• The UK offers a vast array of programs across engineering, science, art and design, business, management, law and finance.
• Whether students aim to pursue STEM fields or creative industries, UK universities provide rigorous and globally respected education tailored to a wide range of career aspirations.

Faster Degree Completion:

• Most undergraduate courses can be completed in just three years, while master’s programs often take only one year compared to two years in many other countries.
• This helps students reduce both tuition fees and living expenses while entering the workforce sooner.

Work Opportunities for International Students:

• International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
• This flexibility not only helps with financial management but also provides valuable work experience.
• This is particularly advantageous in cities like London where living costs can exceed £20,000 per year.

Post-Study Work Visa:

• The UK’s Graduate Route Visa enables international graduates to stay and work in the UK for two years after completing their degree (three years for doctoral graduates).
• This program has seen remarkable uptake among Indian students who made up nearly half of all Graduate Route extensions by mid-2024 with 67,529 Indian nationals benefiting.

Top Duolingo English Test Accepted Universities in the UK 2025

110 universities in the UK, and thousands more worldwide, accept the Duolingo English Test for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions.

• University of York
• University of Aberdeen
• Buckinghamshire New University
• University of the West of England
• University of Exeter
• University of Leicester
• Bath Spa University
• Devon County Council
• Bangor University
• Northumbria University
• York St John University
• Hult International Business School Inc
• Anglia Ruskin University
• Farnborough College of Technology
• Hertfordshire International College
• Northern College of Acupuncture
• University of Bristol
• LAPT Academy
• Newcastle University
• University of the West of England
• Bangor University

What is the Duolingo English Test?

Duolingo, like other English proficiency exams, evaluates applicants based on four criteria: reading, writing, listening and speaking. Earlier many universities do not use to accept Duolingo English proficiency exam scores.  However, with the pandemic causing global disruption and everything changing to digital means, several universities have begun exploring alternatives to traditional English proficiency examinations. Because the exam centres were closed, IELTS and TOEFL could not be administered. As a result, the number of educational institutions in countries like the UK, USA, Canada and more accepting Duolingo results is increasing at an alarming rate. Now, any person with a camera, microphone, speakers, and reliable internet can take the test from the comfort of their home. 

Rising Costs and the Duolingo English Test as a Solution

The financial aspect of studying in the UK is a critical factor. On average, undergraduate tuition fees range from £11,400 to £38,000 per year with medical programs costing even more. Living expenses add another £15,000–£20,000 annually for students in London.

For Indian students, proving English language proficiency is an essential step in the application process but traditional tests like IELTS and TOEFL can add substantial costs and logistical barriers. The Duolingo English Test (DET) offers a more affordable, accessible and flexible way for students to prove their English proficiency:

• Lower Cost: At less than INR ₹5500, the DET is a fraction of the cost of traditional tests like IELTS and TOEFL.
• Convenience: Students can take the test online at home eliminating travel requirements.
• Speed: Results are available within 48 hours making it ideal for students facing tight application deadlines.
• Unlimited Score Submissions: DET scores can be sent to an unlimited number of institutions at no additional cost.
• Short Duration: The one-hour test ensures a stress-free experience.

Top UK Universities Accepting DET for Postgraduate Admissions 2025

• University of Southampton
• University of Leeds
• University of Liverpool
• University of East Anglia
• Anglia Ruskin University

So that was all about the Duolingo accepted universities in the UK. Hope the blog has answered your queries regarding the topic.

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