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Duolingo English Test (DET) has gained popularity and global recognition across many universities for international students for abroad study applications. It is taken as a modern and convenient alternative to traditional English proficiency exams like IELTS and TOEFL. Duolingo English Test was created in 2016, and it was designed to make English language tests more accessible, affordable, and efficient for students worldwide.
The DET is entirely online, so it makes users and students take access and exams from the comfort of their homes. Many universities around the world have accepted the Duolingo test score for international admission.
The DET assesses four essential English language skills:
The UK remains a top destination among every country despite the rise of various challenges in the education market among the international students, such as cost and competitive admission. Many universities in the UK have accepted the Duolingo English Proficiency Test scores for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate programs. In 2025, Duolingo’s latest update shows that more than 130 universities in the UK have accepted the Duolingo test.
The Duolingo Test got its recognition after the COVID-19 pandemic, as people were restricted for traditional center tests. Since then, universities around the world recognized the test and continued to expand due to its accessibility and convenience among the various groups of people. The UK has become one of those countries that accepts the Duolingo English Test for admission to their top-ranked prestigious universities.
Students need to acquire DET scores ranging from 105 to 130 for UK universities; this factor may depend upon the institution and courses that the students have chosen. As some of the competitive programs may demand higher scores in DET. Always verify the required scores according to the university and the program from the university’s official website.
Learn about the Duolingo English Test
Duolingo English Test offers various advantages for students who are planning to study in the UK and getting admission to UK universities with Duolingo English Test:
Users can take the DET exam online from anywhere. Students only need to have their gadget and good internet with them, which saves the additional cost of travelling to centers.
Traditional English tests like IELTS and TOEFL cost around $200-$250, while the DET test is much cheaper, which is just $65 USD.
Duolingo provides students with quick results within 48 hours, while other traditional tests like IELTS, TOEFL, etc. take up to 2 weeks to release their result.
Students can give the test at their preferred time without having to wait for specific dates or slots. This makes it ideal even for last-minute applications.
Duolingo has stated that it’s English proficiency test is accepted and recognized by more than 5,500 institutions worldwide, including the top universities in the UK. This makes admission to universities around the world easy for students.
The DET combines reading, writing, speaking, and listening in an interactive and engaging format. Its adaptive nature makes it less stressful compared to fixed-format tests.
Many top universities in the UK accept Duolingo test scores for admission. Here is the list of the top 10 universities in the UK that accept admission under Duolingo, along with the minimum score required:
University | Minimum DET Score Required |
---|---|
Southampton Solent University | 115/100 |
University of the West London | 120/95 |
York St John | 105/95 |
University of the West of England - Bristol | 105/100 |
University College Birmingham | 110/100 |
Note: For recent updates in score requirements, make sure you check the university’s website, as they may vary by course and duration that you are applying for.
UK Student Visa for International Students
The UK hosts top universities in the world with advanced education systems, making it the top destination among international students. Students are now allowed to apply to UK universities for various programs under the Duolingo English Test (DET). DET is being accepted by many universities in the UK.
DET is flexible, affordable, and efficient, making it easy for international students to meet English language proficiency. With growing acceptance among the top universities in the UK, DET is a practical option for many students.
However, the UK government doesn't take Duolingo as an official test; it is better to look for all the requirements of the university before application. Consult Bizz Education for more information and details on every application process. Here we will guide you with the knowledge on the DET accepting university and provide visa application under DET after you get CAS letter from your desired university under your chosen program. Make your dream of studying in the UK come true with Bizz Education.