Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, center-based testing is no longer accessible anywhere on the planet. As a result, an increasing number of academic institutions are putting in place online alternatives to the TOEFL and IELTS, such as Duolingo. Around 1,000 schools and institutions accept the Duolingo English Test, with many of them using it as their primary way of measuring English competence.
The minimum Duolingo test scores that the USA institutions demand vary. The purpose of this post is to identify USA’s leading institutions and to tell you what Duolingo test scores they require for admission.
- What Should You Know About Studying in the USA?
- What are the Requirements for Studying in the USA?
- What is the Minimum Duolingo Score for American Universities?
- Duolingo English Test Score Requirements for Major American Universities
- Where Do American Universities Stand According to QS World University Rankings in 2022?
- Which University Does Not Require Any English Proficiency Test in the US?
- What are the Top Courses in the United States Among International Students?
- 10 Scholarships and Financial Assistance to Study in the US
- Additional FAQs About Duolingo English Test Scores for Universities in the USA
What Should You Know About Studying in the USA?
The United States boasts one of the best university systems globally, with outstanding programs in almost every discipline. Excellent undergraduate degrees are available in conventional areas as well as professional sectors.
Graduate students have the opportunity to work directly with some of the most brilliant minds in their area in special research and educational initiatives. Degrees from the United States are regarded as among the best in the world.
- Real-world Job Experience: If you attend a US institution or college, you may be able to participate in one or more internships and network with top businesses. Many degree programs require you to do an internship or co-op to graduate, which may help you expand your network and open doors to new possibilities.
- Career Opportunities: In the United States, universities and colleges regularly offer career fairs and host career seminars with guest speakers from renowned organizations. These events put you in touch with industry professionals who can help you expand your professional network.
- High-end Facilities: Many universities and institutions in the United States feature cutting-edge research labs, manufacturing workshops, and other facilities that enable you to participate in revolutionary research and develop new products.
- Multicultural Immersion: The United States is home to individuals from all over the globe, each with its own distinct culture and customs. You will have the opportunity to live, work, and learn with a diverse group of individuals while studying in the United States, providing you with essential collaboration experience that employers appreciate in an increasingly globalized world.
- Study while Working: International students who want to work while studying in the United States must adhere to tight guidelines. When courses are in session, international students enrolled full-time and with valid F-1 status may work on campus for up to 20 hours per week and 40 hours per week when classes are not in session.
- Health Insurance: Students with an F1 visa are free from government-mandated health insurance obligations while studying in the US. Keeping this in mind, F1 visa holders and their families should follow their institution’s insurance policies. Some institutions will provide insurance for international students, while others will let them choose their plans regularly. Regardless of your school’s insurance requirements, getting insurance protects you from unexpected medical costs.
What are the Requirements for Studying in the USA?
Whether you need an F visa or an M visa depends on your course of study and the sort of school you want to attend. Students applying to vocational or other non-recognized universities must acquire M type Visa.
You must attend a university or college, a seminary conservatory, or another academic institution that includes a language training program to get an F type.
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The following are the general prerequisites for studying in the USA:
- A valid passport.
- Letters of admission from the targeted institution demonstrate significant social and financial links to their native country, compelling them to return.
- Financial and other papers, as well as convincing proof of money, to support the students’ application.
- Applicants must demonstrate their ability to cover academic fees and living expenses throughout their stay.
- Must submit documentaries such as English examinations (Duolingo English Test, IELTS, or TOEFL) or standard tests (SAT) to show academic preparation.
What is the Minimum Duolingo Score for American Universities?
Universities have different criteria for overseas students who want to study in the United States of America. Each university has its own set of standards, primarily based on the student’s course of study, academic records, and capacity to satisfy them.
As per Duolingo’s website, over 1500 institutions accept it for admission in the USA. These are some of the American institutions accepting the Duolingo English Test:
- Millikin University
- Lewis & Clark College
- St. Thomas University (Florida)
- University of Baltimore
- University of Houston – Clear Lake
- Harcum College
- Purdue University Northwest, Undergraduate Admissions
- Tusculum University Admissions
- Mid-America Christian University
- St. Ambrose University
- Goshen College
- Barry University Undergraduate Admissions
- University of the Pacific Undergraduate Admissions
- Lasell University
- Zaytuna College
- Seton Hill University
- Cardinal Stritch University
- Augustana College
- Lafayette College
- Missouri Southern State University
- Montana State University Billings
- Augsburg College
- Saginaw Valley State University
- Messiah University – Undergraduate and Graduate Admissions
- Morningside College
- University of Hawaii – Hilo
- Visible Music College
- The University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Kettering University Undergraduate Programs
- Central Christian College of Kansas
Duolingo English Test Score Requirements for Major American Universities
COVID-19 has forced certain Duolingo or TOEFL exam facilities to shut. You may use the Duolingo English Test to meet English language requirements at several American institutions and universities as an overseas student. These are the top 10 highly-recognized universities in the US that accept the DET and their minimum requirements:
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
While Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is most renowned for its engineering and physical science degrees, it also has excellent economics, political science, urban studies, linguistics, and philosophy programs. Undergraduate students can often conduct their original research since admission is so competitive.
Due to the pandemic, MIT is accepting the Duolingo English Test as proof of English proficiency for non-native English speakers.
A minimum DET score of 120-125 is accepted to verify your English competence.
2. Harvard University (Extension School)
Harvard Extension School (HES) is a Cambridge, Massachusetts, extension school. It provides liberal arts and professional courses, academic certifications, undergraduate and graduate degrees, and a pre-medical program.
Currently, only the Harvard Univerity Extension School accepts Duolingo English Test scores with a minimum of 125 and should be no more than a year old and verifiable.
3. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is a world-renowned scientific and engineering research and education institution where exceptional professors and students seek answers to hard issues, uncover new knowledge, lead innovation, and shape the future.
Caltech has approved the Duolingo English Test as an acceptable test to verify a student’s English language competency as of June 2020. The minimum scores for admission for undergraduates are 105 and 120 for graduates.
4. University of Chicago
The University of Chicago is a Chicago-based private research university. Its primary campus is in Chicago’s Hyde Park area, founded in 1890. The University of Chicago is one of the world’s greatest institutions and one of the most selective in the United States.
At present, the University of Chicago is accepting Duolingo English Test score. To be considered for admission, an undergraduate candidate must score 90, and a graduate applicant must score 105.
5. University of Pennsylvania
Penn’s academic life is unrivaled, with students from 100 countries and every state in the United States. The University of Pennsylvania enrolls 10,000 undergraduate students and invites additional 10,000-plus students to its world-renowned graduate and professional schools, consistently rated among the top 10 institutions in the nation.
UPenn’s applicants should have a total DET score of 120 or above to be considered.
6. Yale University
In New Haven, Connecticut, Yale University is noted for its outstanding theatre and music departments, which extend outside the classroom via student groups such as the Yale Whiffenpoofs and the Yale Dramatic Association.
Due to the technology and structure of Duolingo, candidates may take the exam at any time and from any location with an internet connection. DET scores of at least 120 are required for Yale’s most competitive candidates.
7. Columbia University
Columbia University is one of the world’s most prestigious research institutions, as well as a unique and distinguished learning environment for undergraduate and graduate students in a variety of academic and professional specialties. DET scores of at least 120 are required of applicants.
8. Cornell University
Cornell University is a private Ivy League university. Cornell is a large institution that enables students to meet and connect with new people regularly. Because the campus is usually packed with students, all athletic events, clubs, and activities are pretty dynamic.
In place of the TOEFL or IELTS, Cornell University will accept the Duolingo English Test or DET scores from transfer candidates to meet submission criteria to assess English Language Proficiency. The minimum recommended score is 120.
9. The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is a top public university in the US for the sixth year in a row. UMich has been named the top public university in the United States for the sixth consecutive year by QS World University Rankings.
As a result of the pandemic, they will accept the Duolingo English Test for the time being. Applicants may take the Duolingo exam online and have their results forwarded immediately o the University of Michigan-Dearborn. A minimum of 105 points is necessary. Test results that are older than two years will not be accepted.
10. Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins University is well known for its pre-med program, with many graduates continuing on to medical school. In its 2019 post-graduate survey, JHU graduates were accepted into 80% of medical schools. But pupils have other interests.
To be admitted, you need a composite score of 120 or better, with 125 (Literacy), 120 (Conversation), 135 (Comprehension), and 105 (Production).
Summary Table of the Top Universities and their Minimum DET Score
| University Ranking (in the USA) | Educational Institution Name | Minimum Duolingo English Test Score Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Harvard University | 125 |
| 2 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 120 to 125 |
| 2 | Columbia University | 120 |
| 5 | Yale University | 120 |
| 6 | University of Chicago | 105 |
| 8 | University of Pennsylvania | 120 |
| 9 | California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | 105 to 120 |
| 9 | Johns Hopkins University | 120 |
| 9 | Northwestern University | 85 to 90 |
| 9 | Duke University | 115 |
| 14 | Brown University | 120 |
| 17 | Cornell University | 120 |
| 20 | The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) | 120 |
| 22 | The University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 115 |
| 23 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | 105 |
| 25 | Carnegie Mellon University | 120 |
| 28 | New York University (NYU) | 125 |
| 34 | The University of California, San Diego (UCSD) | 110 |
| 42 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | 120 |
| 47 | The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | 125 |
Where Do American Universities Stand According to QS World University Rankings in 2022?
QS World University Rankings, established by TopUniversities.com, is one of the top worldwide rankings comparing the popularity and performance of institutions worldwide. The QS Rankings are produced every year and include rankings of institutions based on surveys, diversity, and much more. Below are the top universities in the US:
Yale University, NYU Stern School of Business, Cornell University’s Johnson School of Management, and The University of Illinois Urbana Campaign’s College of Business are approximately 300 institutions that accept the Duolingo English exam in the US.
We’ve listed here the top 20 US universities that accept the DET Scores:
| World Ranking | Top 20 Universities in the US Accepting DET Scores | Minimum Duolingo English Test Score Requirement |
| 1 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 120 to 125 |
| 5 | Harvard University | 125 |
| 6 | California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | 105 to 120 |
| 10 | University of Chicago | 105 |
| 13 | University of Pennsylvania | 120 |
| 14 | Yale University | 120 |
| 19 | Columbia University | 120 |
| 21 | Cornell University | 120 |
| 23 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | 105 |
| 25 | Johns Hopkins University | 120 |
| 30 | Northwestern University | 85 to 90 |
| 32 | The University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | 115 |
| 40 | The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) | 120 |
| 42 | New York University (NYU) | 125 |
| 48 | The University of California, San Diego (UCSD) | 110 |
| 50 | Duke University | 115 |
| 53 | Carnegie Mellon University | 120 |
| 60 | Brown University | 120 |
| 75 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | 120 |
| 82 | The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | 125 |
Which University Does Not Require Any English Proficiency Test in the US?
Many overseas students come from non-English speaking backgrounds and have little or no instruction in the language. Hence they do not qualify for these assessments. Because proof of proficiency score is required, many of these students struggle to get into an American institution. So the issue for overseas students is if an English Language Proficiency score is required for admission to any US institution.
Unfortunately, an English Language Proficiency exam is a barrier for many students since it is tough to pass for non-native English speakers. Many people are hesitant to take any of these proficiency tests several times since it might be rather pricey.
If you want to study in the United States without taking any English Language Proficiency exam, bear the following in mind:
- You will require a statement from your prior institution indicating that the graduate program you pursued was in English when enrolling for post-graduate studies.
- You must have English as one of your core subjects in high school to be eligible for undergraduate courses.
- Duolingo English Test (DET) or the likes might not be necessary if you graduated from a nation where English is the official language.
- If you do not have ELP results, the institution may require you to enroll in their own English language preparation program, the Intensive English Language Program (IELP). You will be taught the fundamentals of the language.
Entering the US is difficult. It’s much more complicated if you can’t accept overseas students who can’t offer proof of English proficiency. You may study in the US without taking an English Language Proficiency Test by:
1. Rice University
Rice University has a minimal English Language requirement if you graduate from an English-speaking country. However, if a student graduated from an institution where English is the primary language of instruction, evidence of English Language Proficiency is not required. The admitting department may seek a waiver of these exams if they believe the student has adequate English communication abilities to succeed in their program.
2. California State University
California State University (CSU), evidence of English Language Proficiency is not necessary for overseas students who have completed secondary or graduate studies in English. A few nations have likewise dropped the minimal English requirement for their students.
3. Drexel University
Drexel University has campuses in Philadelphia and California. The University offers two conditional admission programs: University Preparation Summer Program (UPREP) and Bridge Program for non-native English speakers.
4. State University of New York
The State University of New York system is based in Albany. International students must complete the Intensive English Language Program to be admitted (IELP).
5. University of Iowa
The University of Iowa is an Iowa City public research university. International students who do not fulfill the English proficiency criteria are admitted.
6. University of Arkansas
The University of Arkansas is an Arkansas public research university. While overseas students do not need evidence of English Language Proficiency, they must enroll in the Intensive English Language Program (IELP).
7. University of Dayton
The University of Dayton is a private Roman Catholic National Research University. Those who do not fulfill the university’s language requirement must enroll in the Intensive English Language Program (IELP).
8. University of Delaware
The University of Delaware is a state-run institution. The institution admits overseas students who meet all other criteria except English competence but only to specific graduate programs. Otherwise, conditional admission is granted depending on English proficiency (ELI-CAP)
9. University of New Orleans (UNO)
The University of New Orleans is a public research university in New Orleans, Louisiana. International students are conditionally admitted upon completing the Intensive English Language Program (IELP).
*However, evidence of English Language Proficiency results is required for university entrance and a student visa. Aspiring students should take these language examinations to assist them to get a student visa.
What are the Top Courses in the United States Among International Students?
The United States is one of the most popular educational tourism destinations globally. Students may choose from various courses and specialties ranging from Accounting to Zoology, based on their interests and abilities.
Students can enroll in any of these programs and study at some of the world’s greatest institutions.
Here are some of the most popular courses in the United States. Here is a selection to consider following your Duolingo English Test:
1. MBA
The USA is, without a doubt, one of the most popular locations for MBA students. And rightfully so: an MBA in the USA may be lucrative, both in terms of study and post-graduation professional opportunities. Studying in America also provides an excellent cultural experience.
Where to Study MBA in the United States:
- NYU Stern School of Business
- UCLA – Anderson School
- University of Florida – Warrington College of Business Administration
- Boston University (BU) Questrom School of Business
- Columbia Business School (CBS), Columbia University
2. Engineering
STEM fields, including engineering, are the top courses in the USA for Indian students. International engineering students are second in number only to business students. Like business schools, the US has the most engineering universities in the top 10 QS rankings.
MIT is the world’s most sought-after engineering institution, consistently topping the rankings.
Further, MS, a research-oriented master’s degree given by most US colleges, is the finest program to study in the USA and the most looked for by Indian students. Of course, engineering is one of the top paid careers in the USA and globally, with civil and mechanical engineering earning the most.
Where to Study Engineering in the United States:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- The University of California, Berkeley (UCB)
- Harvard University
- Georgia Institute of Technology
3. Information and Communications Technology
After business and engineering, math and computer science are the best disciplines to study in the USA for Indian students, giving the highest paid employment in the USA.
STEM courses and jobs account for 30% of international students studying in the USA.
Top US universities for Mathematics and Computer Science include MIT, Stanford, and Harvard. Looking at US institutions also allows you to explore the country’s research prospects.
Where to Study Information and Communications Technology in the United States:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- Carnegie Mellon University
- The University of California, Berkeley (UCB)
- Harvard university
4. Social Sciences
Subjects like Economics are among the greatest courses to study in America for Indian students.
Anthropology, journalism, international relations, economics, and other areas are included within the social sciences and humanities, in addition to engineering and MBA since research opportunities are plentiful in the US.
It is also true that, unlike many nations, career opportunities are readily accessible in these fields, according to Kent D Thomas, Assistant Vice President for International Programs at Missouri State University.
Where to Study Social Sciences in the United States:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- The gettinginMoreUniversity of California, Berkeley (UCB)
- Harvard university
- Princeton University
5. Physical and Life Sciences
Biology and Medicine are among the most popular physical and biological sciences courses in the USA. In fact, more students are leaving conventional disciplines to enroll in hybrid courses.
They are both physicians. But I want to keep in touch with healthcare through technology.
Where to Study Physical and Life Sciences:
- Harvard University
- Standford University
- John Hopkins University
- The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- Yale University
10 Scholarships and Financial Assistance to Study in the US
We’ve also compiled a list of scholarships and financial assistance to help you out. These Scholarships will cover most of your expenditures. Apply for entirely supported scholarships to study at world-renowned institutions such as Yale University, Harvard University, Clark University, Boise State University, Berea College, etc.
1. Fulbright Scholarships USA
Fulbright Grants are fully paid overseas student scholarships. These scholarships are exclusively available for masters and doctoral programs. Full tuition, a living stipend, full housing, flights, and health insurance are all covered by the Fulbright Foreign Student Program.
2. Stanford University Scholarships
For overseas students, the Stanford University Award is a fully financed scholarship. This grant is available for Masters and Doctoral programs. This scholarship covers full tuition, travel, living, and educational expenses.
3. Yale University Scholarships USA
For overseas students, the Yale University Award is a fully financed scholarship. This grant is available for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students. The average Yale need-based scholarship is over $50,000, and it may range from a few hundred dollars to over $70,000 each year.
4. University of New Haven Scholarship
International students may apply for the University of New Haven Award, a fully financed scholarship. This award is exclusively available for master’s degree programs. This scholarship will give a chance for hands-on learning and employment for the duration of their graduate study, as well as 75 percent tuition aid and hourly pay.
5. University of Memphis Scholarships
The University of Memphis Grant is a fully financed scholarship for overseas students. This grant is available to students pursuing undergraduate and master’s degrees. The scholarship amounts fluctuate and cover the cost difference between foreign and domestic tuition rates for non-Tennessee residents.
6. University of Minnesota Fellowship
The University of Minnesota Fellowship is a fully supported grant for international students. This grant is for master’s degree study. This scholarship covers the total cost of tuition and living costs, travel, and health insurance.
7. AAUW International Fellowship Program
The AAUW Fellowship Program is an all-expenses-paid award. The American Association of University Women in the United States offers this award. International students from any country in the globe are welcome to apply. Only graduate and postgraduate studies in any field provided by the institution are eligible for this award. The AAUW Fellowship Program pays $18,000 to $30,000 each year and is renewable if met academic conditions.
8. ACI Foundation Scholarship
The ACI Foundation Scholarship is a fully financed scholarship or fellowship for overseas students. This award is available for undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and postdoctoral studies. This scholarship grants a stipend of $10,000 to USD 15,000 for tuition, housing, books, and supplies in the United States.
9. Onsi Sawiris Scholarship
International students may apply for the Onsi Sawiris Scholarship, a fully financed undergraduate and master’s scholarship. This scholarship includes complete tuition, a stipend, travel expenses, and health insurance.
10. Rotary Peace Fellowship Program
International students may apply for Rotary Peace Fellowships, fully financed scholarships. These scholarships are exclusively available for masters and doctoral programs. Tuition, fees, housing and board, round-trip transportation, and all internship and field-study costs are entirely covered by the Rotary Peace Fellowships Program.
Additional FAQs About Duolingo English Test Scores for Universities in the USA
Can I Apply for A Study Visa in The USA Using the Duolingo English Test?
Many schools are now adopting Duolingo online exams as an alternative to IELTS and TOEFL due to the epidemic since these examinations are not available in many regions.
With this, more than 1,000 new programs have begun to accept the Duolingo English Test since the worldwide pandemic began, with more than 2,000 universities now adopting it as part of their admissions process, with 70% of them headquartered in the United States. Stanford University in California, Washington University in St. Louis, Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania, Vanderbilt University in Tennessee, and New York University accept the exam.
What is the Minimum Duolingo English Test Score for American Universities?
Yes. Various universities will continue accepting the Duolingo English Test score for applicants desiring to show English language competency for undergraduate admissions due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic reducing testing possibilities for students.
Please note that the Duolingo English Test scores are valid for two years.
You may submit your scores to educational institutions directly from the results page, and there is no limit on how many scores reports you can send. You have the option of sending the score report to as many institutions as you choose. However, some universities require results that are not older than a year.
Will American Universities Accept the Duolingo English Test Scores for 2022 Intakes?
Yes. Various universities will continue accepting the Duolingo English Test score for applicants desiring to show English language competency for undergraduate admissions due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic reducing testing possibilities for students.
Please note that the Duolingo English Test scores are valid for two years. You may submit your scores to educational institutions directly from the results page, and there is no limit on how many scores reports you can send.
You have the option of sending the score report to as many institutions as you choose. However, some universities require results that are not older than a year.
Why Do US Universities Require Proof of English Competency?
All universities in the US are using English as a means of communication. Hence, they require student candidates to submit proof of English competency. A language test is used to assess a person’s language knowledge and skill and distinguish that person’s ability from that of others. Achievement, proficiency, or aptitude are all examples of such skills.
Therefore, taking an English test, such as Duolingo English Test, may help you determine your English proficiency. It may also be a beneficial or required method of demonstrating your English proficiency for job, education, or citizenship in certain countries.
Additional Reading: Duolingo English Test Scoring
- Duolingo English Test Scoring Guide
- Duolingo English Test Scores for the Top Universities in Australia
- Duolingo English Test Scores for the Top Universities in the UK
- Duolingo English Test Scores for the Top Universities in New Zealand
- Duolingo English Test Scores for the Top Universities in Canada
- Does Harvard Accept Duolingo English Test?
