Duolingo Accepted Universities in the USA: Universities, Eligibility Criteria and Best Tips

Students who take the Duolingo English Test can submit their scores to a wide range of universities across the United States. Growing acceptance of Duolingo scores has made the admission process more accessible for international applicants. It reduces dependence on high-cost language tests and removes the need for travel to test centres.

As more US universities recognise DET scores, students benefit from greater flexibility and a broader choice of institutions. This expanding acceptance opens new academic opportunities while maintaining required language standards. Reading further will help students understand which universities in the USA accept Duolingo scores and how this option can support their study abroad plans.

Top US News 2026 Ranked National Universities Accepting DET

Building on the growing acceptance of the Duolingo English Test in the United States, several nationally ranked universities now consider DET scores for admission. This shift reflects how institutions adapted their language requirements to remain accessible while maintaining academic standards. As a result, students applying to top-ranked US universities have more flexibility when demonstrating English proficiency.

Most nationally ranked universities accepting Duolingo typically expect scores between 95 and 120, with higher-ranked institutions often recommending stronger scores for competitive programs. The table below outlines US News 2026 ranked national universities that accept DET, along with their minimum or recommended score ranges. This information helps students align their Duolingo results with realistic admission expectations and plan applications more effectively.

US News 2026 Rank	University	Minimum / Recommended DET Score	Notes
1	Princeton University	130 (target)	No fixed minimum. Competitive applicants usually submit 130+.
2	Massachusetts Institute of Technology	120 overall	Required if English is not the primary language.
3	Harvard University	120–125	No strict minimum. Score varies by program.
4	Stanford University	130 (target)	Not mandatory. Recommended for non-English medium education.
4	Yale University	120 overall	Competitive applicants typically score 120+.
6	University of Chicago	130 (target)	Advised for applicants from non-English schools.
7	Duke University	130 overall	Recommended if prior education was not in English.
7	Johns Hopkins University	120 overall	Literacy 125 and Conversation 120 preferred.
7	Northwestern University	130 (target)	No official minimum published.
7	University of Pennsylvania	130 overall	Encouraged for strong consideration.
11	California Institute of Technology	130 overall	Required for non-native English speakers.
12	Cornell University	130 overall	Minimum score for consideration.
13	Brown University	130 overall	Expected minimum for applicants.
13	Dartmouth College	135 overall	Applicable to select graduate programs.
15	Columbia University	135 overall	Required for undergraduate and postgraduate study.
15	University of California, Berkeley	115 minimum	Some programs prefer 125+.

Explore: Learn About the Duolingo English Test

Cost of Studying at Top Duolingo-Accepting US Universities for International Undergraduates 

With an understanding of which top-ranked US universities accept the Duolingo English Test, the next important consideration for international students is the cost of studying at these institutions. Tuition and living expenses at nationally ranked universities in the United States remain high, particularly for international undergraduates who are not eligible for federal aid.

For the 2025–2026 academic year, the estimated cost of attendance at top Duolingo-accepting US universities generally ranges between USD 90,000 and USD 96,000 per year, covering tuition, housing, meals, books, personal expenses, and travel. Based on recent trends, costs for 2026–2027 admissions are expected to rise by approximately 3–6 percent, pushing total annual expenses closer to USD 93,000–100,000.

The table below provides a clearer breakdown of estimated costs at leading national universities that accept Duolingo scores. These figures focus on full-time undergraduate students living on campus and are intended to help applicants plan financially alongside their academic goals.

University	2025–2026 Total COA (USD)	Projected 2026–2027 COA (USD)	Key Cost Breakdown (2025–2026)	Notes on International Aid
Princeton University	USD 90,718	USD 94,624	Tuition USD 65,210; Housing & Food USD 20,910; Other USD 4,598	Full need met through grants. No loans.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	USD 89,340	~USD 92,000	Tuition USD 64,310; Housing USD 13,614; Food USD 7,650; Other USD 3,766	Need-blind. Full need met.
Harvard University	USD 90,426–95,426	~USD 93,500–98,500	Tuition USD 59,320; Housing USD 13,532; Food USD 8,598; Other USD 8,000	Need-blind. Grants available up to full COA.
Stanford University	USD 92,892	~USD 96,600	Tuition USD 64,890; Housing & Food ~USD 20,000; Other USD 8,002	Full need met for eligible students.
Yale University	USD 90,550	~USD 93,900	Tuition USD 67,250; Housing & Food USD 19,180; Other USD 4,120	Need-blind. Full demonstrated need met.
University of Chicago	~USD 90,000	~USD 93,000	Tuition USD 65,619; Housing & Food USD 20,289; Other USD 4,092	Need-based aid available. Competitive.
Duke University	USD 92,042	~USD 95,000	Tuition USD 70,265; Housing & Food USD 18,200; Other USD 3,577	Need-aware. Partial aid for internationals.
Johns Hopkins University	USD 91,830	~USD 95,000	Tuition USD 66,670; Housing USD 12,450; Food USD 7,900; Other USD 4,810	Need-aware. Select internationals receive full aid.
Northwestern University	USD 92,564	~USD 95,600	Tuition USD 69,375; Housing & Food USD 20,000; Other USD 3,189	Need-based aid. No loans for eligible students.
University of Pennsylvania	USD 95,612	~USD 98,600	Tuition USD 68,686; Housing & Food USD 19,000; Other USD 7,926	Need-blind. Strong aid support for internationals.

Explore: Duolingo Writing Exam Pattern

Top Duolingo-Accepting US Universities Requiring Minimum DET Scores of 120 or Above

As acceptance of the Duolingo English Test (DET) continues to expand, several top-ranked universities in the United States now set minimum DET score requirements of 120 or higher for 2026 admissions. These thresholds are designed to ensure that international students possess the level of academic English needed for rigorous coursework. Requirements typically apply to non-native English speakers and may vary by program, with competitive fields such as STEM, business, and engineering often expecting higher scores.

In addition to overall scores, some universities also review DET subscores, Literacy, Comprehension, Conversation, and Production, to assess balanced language ability. Since policies can differ across departments and may change annually, students are advised to confirm score requirements directly on official university admissions pages.

The table below presents a curated list of US News & World Report 2026 ranked national universities that require or strongly recommend DET scores of 120 or above, along with guidance on competitiveness.

US News 2026 Rank	University	Minimum / Recommended DET Score	Important Note
1	Princeton University	120 minimum	Target 130+ for stronger competitiveness.
2	Massachusetts Institute of Technology	120 overall	Required for non-native English speakers.
3	Harvard University	125 overall	Program-specific. Higher for graduate schools.
4	Stanford University	120–130 recommended	Not mandatory, but advised for non-English instruction backgrounds.
5	Yale University	120 overall	Competitive applicants usually exceed minimum.
6	California Institute of Technology	130 overall	All subscores generally expected at 120+.
7	Duke University	120–130 overall	Higher scores preferred for engineering and science programs.
7	Johns Hopkins University	120 overall	Literacy 125 and Conversation 120 often reviewed.
7	University of Pennsylvania	120–130 overall	Wharton and competitive majors favour 130+.
9	Northwestern University	120–125 recommended	Department-specific expectations apply.
10	Columbia University	135 overall	High requirement due to selectivity.
11	Cornell University	120 minimum	Higher scores preferred for engineering and ILR.
12	University of Chicago	120–130 recommended	Not compulsory but advised if prior education not in English.
13	Brown University	120 overall	Subscores reviewed for balance.
14	Dartmouth College	120–135 overall	135 required for select graduate programs.
16	Carnegie Mellon University	135 overall	Subscores generally expected above 110.
17	University of California, Los Angeles	130 overall	Primarily for graduate programs.
20	University of Southern California	120 overall	Some programs require 125+.
24	New York University	125 overall	Higher for engineering and technical schools.
28	Boston University	130 overall	Higher expectations for business and communication programs.

Top US Universities Accepting Duolingo English Test (DET) Scores of 100–115 for 2026 Admissions

Alongside highly selective institutions that require DET scores of 120 or above, a large number of well-ranked US universities accept Duolingo English Test scores between 100 and 115. As of December 2025, this score range is commonly accepted by mid-tier private universities and public research institutions, particularly for non-STEM programs, humanities, social sciences, and pathway or conditional admissions supported by ESL courses.

A DET score of 100–115 roughly corresponds to IELTS 5.5–6.0 or TOEFL 65–80, making it a practical option for students who meet academic requirements but are still strengthening English proficiency. While more than 1,000 US institutions fall within this range, the list below highlights higher-ranked national universities based on US News & World Report 2026 rankings, where minimum score requirements are publicly confirmed. Students should note that competitive programs such as engineering, nursing, or business may require higher overall scores or stronger subscores.

US News 2026 Rank	University	Minimum DET Score	Notes
15	University of California, Berkeley	115	Accepted mainly for humanities and social sciences. Higher scores required for STEM.
15	University of California, Los Angeles	115	Conditional admission possible. ESL pathways available.
17	Rice University	115	Holistic admissions. Competitive but flexible for strong profiles.
21	Washington University in St. Louis	115	Subscore balance reviewed for most programs.
53	Northeastern University	105	Co-op focused. Undergrad 105, graduate programs often prefer 110+.
60	Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute	115	STEM-focused. Conditional options available.
67	Michigan State University	105	Business and communication programs commonly accept 105+.
73	Indiana University Bloomington	115	ESL support available. Strong in media and social sciences.
91	University of Alabama	100	Affordable option. Higher scores needed for selective majors.
98	University of Colorado Boulder	100	Pathway programs available. Popular for environmental studies.
103	Temple University	110	Business programs may require 115.
106	University of Arizona	100–105	Graduate programs often accept 100.
115	Iowa State University	100	Strong research focus. Engineering may need higher subscores.
115	University of Utah	105	Higher requirements for nursing and health sciences.
115	University of South Carolina	110	Business and hospitality programs widely accept DET.
121	University of Vermont	110	Strong liberal arts and environmental programs.
127	University of Oklahoma	110	Energy and atmospheric sciences focus.
132	University of Kentucky	115	Higher thresholds for veterinary and selective programs.
133	University of Houston	105	Urban campus. Popular for engineering and business.

Minimum Duolingo English Test (DET) Score for US Student Visas (F-1/M-1) in 2026

As of December 2025, there is no minimum Duolingo English Test (DET) score required by the US government for issuing F-1 (academic) or M-1 (vocational) student visas. US visa authorities, including the United States Department of State and USCIS, do not mandate any specific English language test or score for visa approval. English proficiency is not a standalone visa requirement and is instead assessed through university admission decisions.

In practice, English language ability becomes relevant only through the institution you apply to, not through the visa itself.

Also Read: Duolingo English Test Last-Minute Preparation Tips

How English Proficiency Fits Into the US Student Visa Process

To apply for an F-1 or M-1 visa, students must first secure admission to an SEVP-certified US institution. Once admitted, the university issues Form I-20, which is mandatory for the visa application. Universities set their own English proficiency criteria, and many now accept DET scores for 2026 admissions.

Minimum DET requirements typically range between 105 and 135, depending on the institution and program. Many universities also review DET subscores, Literacy, Comprehension, Conversation, and Production, to ensure balanced language ability.

Visa Application and Interview Process

After receiving the I-20, students complete Form DS-160 and attend a visa interview at a US embassy or consulate. During the interview, officers may review academic documents, including English test results, to assess overall study preparedness. However, a visa cannot be refused solely due to a low DET score if the issuing university has already approved the student and issued the I-20.

DET Policy Status for 2026

There are no policy changes for 2026 regarding DET requirements for US student visas. No federal minimum scores have been introduced. Duolingo English Test scores remain valid for two years from the test date.

DET Scores Based on University Admission Standards

Although DET scores are not visa-specific, students should aim to meet or exceed their university’s minimum to ensure admission and smooth I-20 processing. To better understand let us delve into the table given below for the list of categories of Universities for Duolingo English Test, example universities and score ranges.

Category of Universities for DET	Example Universities	Typical DET Score Range	Notes
Elite Institutions	Harvard, MIT, Stanford	120–135	Highly competitive. Scores above minimum strengthen applications.
High-Ranking Public Universities	UC Berkeley, UCLA	115–130	Program-specific variation. ESL pathways may be offered.
Mid-Tier and Accessible Universities	Northeastern, Arizona State	95–110	Conditional or pathway admissions common.

Also Read: Duolingo English Test: Is 100 a Good Score in Duolingo for Universities?

Duolingo English Test (DET) Eligibility Criteria for Studying in the USA (2026 Admissions)

The Duolingo English Test (DET) is an online, adaptive English proficiency exam accepted by more than 3,300 universities and colleges in the United States for undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs starting in fall 2026. The test evaluates reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills within 45–60 minutes, with results typically available within 48 hours.

As of December 2025, no major policy updates have been announced for 2026. Eligibility criteria remain simple and inclusive, focusing on accessibility rather than strict academic prerequisites. Below are the key eligibility requirements relevant to international students planning to study in the USA under F-1 or M-1 visas.

1. General Eligibility

There are no academic prerequisites for taking the DET. Candidates are not required to meet minimum education levels, GPA thresholds, or prior English coursework requirements. Any individual seeking to demonstrate English proficiency for US university admission may take the test, regardless of current academic status.

For US study purposes, the DET is valid only if the admitting institution accepts it for admission and Form I-20 issuance. Universities typically set minimum overall score requirements ranging from 95 to 135, depending on the program and level of study.

2. Age Requirements

There is no fixed age limit for taking the Duolingo English Test. Candidates of all ages are eligible.

Applicants under 13 years of age must submit written consent from a parent or legal guardian before taking the test. This requirement ensures compliance with online proctoring standards.

3. Identification (ID) Requirements

A valid government-issued photo ID is mandatory for test registration and verification during the exam.

Accepted ID documents include:

• Passport
• National identity card
• Driver’s license

The name on the ID must exactly match the registration details. Any mismatch may result in test invalidation. Students applying for US visas are strongly advised to use the same passport for both DET registration and visa documentation to avoid discrepancies during the embassy interview.

4. Technical and Test-Taking Requirements

Since the DET is remotely proctored using AI and webcam monitoring, candidates must meet specific technical and environmental conditions. In order to avoid any hassle for future delve below for the required categories fo technical setup and its requirements. 

Category of Technical Setup	Technical Requirements
Device	Desktop or laptop only. Tablets and mobile phones are not permitted.
Camera & Audio	Functional camera, microphone, and speakers (built-in or external).
Internet	Stable broadband connection. Minimum 2 Mbps upload and download speed.
Browser	Latest desktop version of Google Chrome.
Environment	Quiet, private, well-lit room with no interruptions or additional people.
Software	Duolingo test application or extension installed. Device should be fully charged or plugged in.

Important Notes:

The test is adaptive, meaning question difficulty adjusts based on performance. A system check and practice section are included before the exam begins.

Accessibility accommodations such as extended testing time are available for candidates with disabilities. Requests must be submitted through Duolingo support at least two weeks in advance.

5. Score Validity, Retakes, and Policies

Score validity, retakes, and related policies explain how long Duolingo English Test scores remain usable, how frequently candidates may retake the exam, and whether any rule changes impact 2026 admissions. Awareness of these guidelines helps students plan test dates, manage costs, and align application timelines effectively, particularly when applying to US universities and preparing visa documentation.

• Duolingo English Test scores are valid for two years from the test date. Scores submitted for fall 2026 admissions remain valid until 2028.
• Candidates may attempt the test multiple times, with a mandatory 21-day gap between attempts. All test attempts are visible to institutions.
• Each test attempt costs USD 59, payable via credit or debit card. The fee is non-refundable.
• No changes have been announced for 2026 regarding eligibility, score validity, or retake rules. The Duolingo English Test continues to be accepted by SEVP-certified institutions for academic admissions.

Careful planning plays an important role in using the Duolingo English Test effectively for studying in the United States. Students should confirm individual university requirements before booking the test, as competitive institutions often expect scores of 120 or higher. Although DET scores are not directly evaluated during the F-1 visa decision, they are essential for meeting admission criteria and obtaining the Form I-20, so carrying the score report to the visa interview is advisable. Consistent preparation using free practice resources available on Duolingo’s official platform can also help improve performance, especially since many universities assess balanced subscores across Literacy, Comprehension, Conversation, and Production.

FAQs

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For more insightful information on the Duolingo English Test follow Leverage Edu for regular updates. Students can also connect with Leverage Edu’s study abroad experts at 1800-57-2000 to strengthen test scores, refine applications, and improve chances of securing admission to a preferred university.