Skip to content 
080-69029978
Whatsapp Us
The Duolingo English Test (DET) has become an increasingly popular alternative to IELTS for Indian students applying to UK universities. It is affordable, fully online, and delivers results quickly. Many UK universities now accept DET for admissions, although acceptance varies by institution and course.
However, there is one important distinction to understand: acceptance by a university does not automatically mean the test is accepted for UK immigration purposes. The UK Student visa has separate English language rules, and in some cases a Secure English Language Test (SELT) may still be required.
Get Free Counselling on WhatsApp
Start ChatIf you’re planning to study in Britain, explore our complete guide to studying in the UK for information on admissions, Student visas, scholarships, accommodation, and graduate careers.
What Is the Duolingo English Test?
The Duolingo English Test is an online English proficiency exam that assesses:
Ready To Study Abroad?
- Reading
- Writing
- Listening
- Speaking
Key advantages include:
- Fully online from home
- Approximately 1 hour to complete
- Results usually available within 48 hours
- Lower cost than many traditional English tests
- Accepted by thousands of universities worldwide
Do UK Universities Accept DET?
Yes. A growing number of UK universities accept the Duolingo English Test for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions.
Examples of universities that have accepted DET for certain programmes include:
- University of Birmingham
- University of Glasgow
- University of Exeter
- University of Leicester
- University of Sussex
- University of Essex
- Coventry University
- Birmingham City University
- Northumbria University
- University of Westminster
Acceptance policies change regularly, and some universities accept DET only for selected courses or entry routes. Always verify the current English language requirements on the official university website before applying.
Typical Duolingo Score Requirements
Most UK universities that accept DET typically ask for scores in the following range:
| Course Level | Typical DET Score |
| Undergraduate | 105–120 |
| Postgraduate (Master’s) | 110–125 |
| Highly Competitive Courses | 120–130+ |
Some programmes may also specify minimum scores in individual skill areas.
Duolingo vs IELTS
| Feature | Duolingo English Test | IELTS Academic |
| Test Format | Online from home | Test centre or approved online formats |
| Test Duration | About 1 hour | About 2 hours 45 minutes |
| Results | Around 48 hours | Usually 2–13 days depending on format |
| Cost | Generally lower | Generally higher |
| University Acceptance | Many UK universities | Nearly all UK universities |
Important UK Student Visa Consideration
This is the point many applicants misunderstand.
While many universities accept DET for admission, the Duolingo English Test is not an approved UKVI Secure English Language Test (SELT). If your visa route or your institution requires a SELT, you will need to take an approved test such as IELTS for UKVI, PTE Academic UKVI, or another Home Office-approved SELT.
For many degree-level courses at recognised UK universities, the institution can assess your English language ability itself and record this on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). Whether DET is sufficient therefore depends on both the university’s policy and your visa circumstances.
Should You Choose DET?
The Duolingo English Test may be a good option if:
- Your chosen university officially accepts DET.
- You want a lower-cost English test.
- You need fast results.
- You are comfortable taking an online assessment.
If you’re applying to several universities—or are unsure whether a SELT will be needed for your visa—taking IELTS for UKVI or PTE Academic UKVI can provide broader acceptance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Duolingo accepted by UK universities?
Yes. Many UK universities accept the Duolingo English Test for admissions, but acceptance varies by institution and programme. Always confirm the latest requirements directly with your chosen university.
What DET score do UK universities usually require?
Most universities typically require a score between 110 and 125 for postgraduate programmes, although requirements differ by course and institution.
Is Duolingo accepted for a UK Student visa?
Not as a UKVI-approved SELT. Where a Secure English Language Test is required for your immigration application, you must use one of the approved SELT providers listed by the UK Home Office.
Is Duolingo easier than IELTS?
The tests use different formats and scoring systems, so neither is universally easier. The best choice depends on your strengths and the requirements of your chosen university.
Final Thoughts
The Duolingo English Test offers Indian students a convenient, affordable, and fast way to demonstrate English proficiency for admission to many UK universities. However, because acceptance policies differ between institutions—and DET is not a UKVI-approved SELT—you should always confirm both the university’s admission requirements and the English language requirements for your Student visa before deciding which test to take.
For expert guidance on UK university admissions, scholarships, Student visas, accommodation, and application planning, explore our comprehensive guide to study in UK for international students. It provides step-by-step support for every stage of your UK education journey.
