The Duolingo English Test (DET) has become a leading choice for students from India pursuing international education. It offers a faster, more flexible, and significantly more cost-effective alternative to traditional assessments like IELTS and TOEFL.
Planning to study abroad? We have detailed how and when you can leverage the Duolingo English Test throughout your university application journey.
Always refer to official government immigration portals for the most current and accurate visa regulations!
What is the Duolingo English Test and why is it growing in popularity?
For a deep dive into mastering the exam, explore our comprehensive guide here! Below, we break down everything you need to know about this increasingly popular English proficiency exam.
The Duolingo English Test is a convenient, at-home assessment that lasts approximately one hour. The exam uses adaptive technology to adjust question difficulty based on your real-time performance. With results delivered in under 48 hours and no scheduling required, it is a perfect fit for students managing busy academic and professional schedules.
We have compared the Duolingo English Test, IELTS, and TOEFL so you can evaluate the pros and cons of each format at a glance:
Duolingo English Test | IELTS | TOEFL |
No advance booking or appointment needed | Requires pre-booked appointments on specific dates set by authorized testing centers (British Council typically allows bookings 2–3 days before registration closes). | Appointments must be scheduled in advance according to official testing body availability. TOEFL iBT allows booking 24 hours after registration. |
Exam duration: 1 hour | Tests require at least 2 hours, excluding travel time to the testing center. | |
Costs: 6,551 INR (single test) or 11,045 INR (two tests)* | 18,000 INR (18,250 INR for IELTS on Computer for UKVI)* | 18,000 INR* |
Results available in 48 hours | Results available in 1–2 days | Results available in 4–8 days |
* Prices listed are accurate as of April 2026. Always confirm current costs on official provider websites before booking.
Before you commit, it is helpful to compare all remote English proficiency options; check out our detailed guide on available options.
In short, the Duolingo English Test is gaining traction among Indian students due to its accessibility and cost-efficiency. While the fast turnaround helps meet application deadlines, always verify if your target country or institution mandates a different testing standard.
Where the Duolingo English Test is accepted, and the visa rules for students from India
While many universities now recognize the Duolingo English Test for admissions, it is crucial to distinguish between university requirements and immigration visa requirements. A score acceptable for university entry may not always suffice for visa approval.
Below, we outline university acceptance and visa considerations for popular destinations among Indian students.
* Information in this section is valid as of April 2026 and is subject to change.
United Kingdom
University acceptance: moderate to high (rapidly growing) | Visa requirements for Indian students |
Many universities accept Duolingo English Test scores typically ranging from 100 to 130. Since recognition is continuously expanding, verify the current policy with your specific institution before applying. Prominent UK universities accepting the DET include Imperial College London, the University of Southampton, the University of Liverpool, and the University of York. | For UK student visas, if your chosen institution confirms the DET as valid proof of proficiency for your degree program, it is generally sufficient for visa purposes. While a Secure English Language Test (SELT) is mandated for specific visa categories, it is not a universal requirement for the majority of standard student visas. To secure your UK student visa, ensure you hold an official acceptance letter and can provide proof of financial stability. Always consult the official UK government website for the most accurate visa documentation requirements. |
United States
University acceptance: high | Visa requirements for Indian students |
| The United States has one of the highest acceptance rates of the Duolingo English Test, with thousands of institutes accepting it. Typical score requirements range between 95 and 120 for most programmes, with more competitive universities asking for higher scores. Graduate programs also largely accept the Duolingo English Test for their admissions process. | For student visas in the USA, there is no fixed requirement for an English-language test. As long as your intended institution has provided you with an acceptance letter, that’s the key to your F-1 visa. Sometimes, visa officers still like to double-check your English, so be prepared for questions at the entry interview stage to demonstrate your ability to communicate. |
Canada
University acceptance: high | Visa requirements for Indian students |
| Canadian universities are increasingly accepting the Duolingo English Test, though it’s not yet universal. Typical required scores range from 105 to 125. 90% of Canada’s top universities accept the Duolingo English Test for undergraduate admission, and nearly half of English-taught graduate programs accept the Duolingo English Test. | Canada now accepts the Duolingo English Test as valid proof of English proficiency for their standard study permit. This means that you can use it for both university admissions and your visa application! |
Australia
University acceptance: limited to moderate | Visa requirements for Indian students |
| Australia has been slower to accept the Duolingo English Test compared to other study abroad destinations popular with students from India. Typical score requirements fall between 100 and 200. Some universities accept it for undergraduate programmes while others it’s only accepted for foundation degrees. | Australia currently does not accept at-home English language assessments for student visa applications; therefore, the Duolingo English Test is not a valid option for your Australian visa. There are specific exceptions for mandatory testing if you meet certain eligibility criteria. |
Ireland
University acceptance: high | Visa requirements for Indian students |
Ireland is emerging as a top destination for Indian students, with 15 out of 18 universities now accepting the Duolingo English Test. Accepted scores generally range from 100 to 200. Ireland’s appeal is bolstered by its high-quality English-taught programs and a booming career landscape in technology, pharmaceuticals, and business. | Ireland has relaxed its student visa rules to welcome international students. As part of this, the Duolingo English Test is accepted as valid proof of English proficiency. This means Indian students can often use the same test result for both admission and their visa, making the process simpler. |
Europe (Netherlands, Germany, and others)
University acceptance: varies (growing in some countries) | Visa requirements for Indian students |
| Across Europe, acceptance of Duolingo English Test differs widely. Some universities in the Netherlands and Germany accept it. Typical scores, where accepted, range between 100 and 125. | In many European countries, student visa decisions for students from India rely on proof of admission from a recognised higher education provider. If the university confirms that the student meets English language requirements, embassies may accept this as sufficient. |
Studying in India at foreign universities (TNE)
Transnational Education (TNE) is gaining momentum, allowing Indian students to access global curricula without leaving home. As India becomes a major hub for international education, foreign universities are increasingly establishing local campuses.
These branch campuses offer students the opportunity to earn joint degrees from prestigious institutions. With several universities announcing new campuses in 2025, TNE is becoming a highly viable alternative to studying abroad.
For example, Deakin University and the University of Wollongong have launched facilities in Gujarat’s GIFT City, highlighting the growing feasibility of international education within India.
GEDU Global Education also continues to expand its presence, having recently opened its largest campus in Gujarat.
Do they accept Duolingo English Test?
In most TNE cases, yes. Since many TNE providers in India are partnered with UK institutions, the Duolingo English Test is generally accepted as a valid demonstration of English proficiency for admissions.
As TNE aims to enhance global educational accessibility, the Duolingo English Test aligns perfectly with this mission and is likely to maintain broad acceptance.
Always remember that admissions policies are program-specific; verify the latest requirements directly through the university’s official guidelines.
Is the Duolingo English Test accepted by universities in India?
While a select few Indian institutions accept the Duolingo English Test, it is not a standard requirement for local domestic admissions.
International students applying to Indian universities will typically need to rely on traditional IELTS or TOEFL scores, unless their prior education was conducted entirely in English.
So, is Duolingo English Test right for you?
The Duolingo English Test provides an efficient, budget-friendly, and accessible pathway to proving your language skills for international study. It significantly reduces the administrative burden compared to traditional testing methods.
However, because it is not universally accepted, always cross-reference government and university requirements to ensure you have the correct documentation for your applications.