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Duolingo Accepted Universities in Australia – Complete 2025 Guide

By Mrinal Mandal

Updated on Sep 02, 2025 | 4.05K+ views

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Over the past few years, Duolingo English Test (DET) has emerged as a convenient alternative to IELTS and TOEFL for international students. Known for its flexibility, affordability, and quick results, the test is now gaining wide recognition among global institutions, including top universities in Australia. 

With more than 150 Australian universities and colleges accepting Duolingo, students planning to pursue higher education have more options than ever. Institutions like University of Melbourne, UNSW Sydney and Monash University now consider DET scores for admission, reflecting a shift toward digital-first testing methods. 

This growing acceptance benefits students, especially from India, who seek a smooth admission process without traveling to test centers. Exploring Duolingo Accepted Universities in Australia helps applicants understand score requirements, eligibility, and the application process, ensuring they make informed decisions for their academic journey abroad. 

Top Duolingo Accepted Universities in Australia

Many Australian universities now recognize the Duolingo English Test (DET) as a valid proof of English proficiency. From globally ranked Go8 universities to flexible pathway colleges, DET scores between 85 and 115 are generally accepted, depending on the institution’s requirements. 

The table below provides a quick snapshot of universities in Australia that accept Duolingo, along with their minimum score expectations for 2025.

University Name

Type

Minimum DET Score

Macquarie University

Public

120

Deakin College

Private Pathway

100

Flinders University

Public

72

Australian National University (ANU)

Public (Go8)

110

Griffith University

Public

130

University of Queensland (UQ)

Public (Go8)

105

University of Sydney

Public (Go8)

79

Swinburne University of Technology

Public

80

Charles Darwin University

Public

94

Kaplan Business School

Private

100

Want to Know If Your Duolingo Score Is Eligible? Check the official DET requirements for top universities in Australia.
👉 View Duolingo Eligibility Criteria

Course-Wise Duolingo Requirements for Australia 2025

Duolingo English Test (DET) score requirements vary by university and course level in Australia. MBA and Nursing programs usually require higher scores compared to general UG and PG courses.

Here’s a list of universities in Australia and the minimum Duolingo scores required for undergraduate, postgraduate, MBA, and health-related courses in 2025.

University

Minimum Score for UG/PG

Minimum Score for MBA

Minimum Score for Nursing/Health

Macquarie University

95

105

100

Flinders University

90

100

100

Griffith University

95

105

105

University of Queensland (UQ)

100

110

110

University of New South Wales

105

110

110

NOTE: Score requirements may vary by program or intake. Always confirm with the university before applying.

Is Duolingo Accepted for Australian Visa?

The Duolingo English Test is not accepted by the Australian Department of Home Affairs for student visa (subclass 500) applications. Students planning to study in Australia should be aware of visa-approved English tests, even if their chosen university accepts Duolingo for admission.

Duolingo Test Validity for Australia Student Visa

  • The Duolingo English Test (DET) is not accepted for Subclass 500 student visa applications in Australia.
  • Visa applications require proof of English from approved testing bodies only.
  • DET can still be used for university admission, but not for visa processing.

Approved English Tests for Australian Student Visa

To apply for a student visa, you must submit results from one of the following tests:

  • IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System – Academic)
  • TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language – Internet-Based Test)
  • PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English – Academic)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) (now known as C1 Advanced)
  • OET (Occupational English Test) – Accepted only for healthcare-related programs

Why Duolingo Test Is Not Accepted for Visa Applications

  • The DET is an online, AI-proctored test without in-person supervision.
  • It does not meet the Department of Home Affairs’ test security and identity verification standards.
  • For immigration purposes, only center-based, high-security tests are recognized.

Study Abroad Preparation Course

What does the Course include:

  • 12 Weeks of Dedicated Coaching to Build a robust profile for Top 1% Universities
  • SOP & Personal Statements For Academic Writing
  • 25 hours of live online classes with mock tests for IELTS
  • Visa, University Application & Submission
  • Country-specific Support with Education loan Guidance
  • International Faculty Masterclass

Download these guides to read Offline

Duolingo Syllabus
Duolingo test pattern

Benefits of Duolingo Test for Australia

While not valid for visas, the Duolingo English Test offers several practical advantages for students applying to Australian universities, especially during the admission stage.

Low cost:  Priced at approx. USD 59 (INR 4,940.48), it's cheaper than IELTS or TOEFL.

Quick results: Scores are available within 48 hours, speeding up the admission process.

Home-based convenience: The test is fully online and can be taken from anywhere.

Accepted by many universities: Over 50+ Australian institutions accept Duolingo scores for UG and PG courses

Useful for conditional offers: Some universities may issue conditional admissions based on Duolingo scores.

Find the best programs across Australian universities—from business to engineering and more.
👉 Browse Courses in Australia

How to Apply to Australian Universities with DET

Many Australian universities now accept the Duolingo English Test as part of their admission process. Here's how international students can apply using DET scores effectively and confidently.

  1. Check University Acceptance
    Visit the official website of your target university to confirm if they accept Duolingo for your course and level (UG/PG).
  2. Register for Duolingo Test
    Sign up at englishtest.duolingo.com, pay the fee (~USD 59; INR 4,940.48), and complete the test online at home.
  3. Receive and Review Scores
    Get your certified Duolingo scores within 48 hours. Ensure your score meets the minimum requirement of the university.
  4. Send Scores to Universities
    Use the Duolingo platform to send your official scores directly to selected Australian institutions.
  5. Complete Online University Application
    Fill out the university application form and upload required documents (academic transcripts, SOP, LORs, etc.).
  6. Wait for Admission Decision
    Universities may grant full or conditional offers. A conditional offer means you may need to submit a visa-approved test later for final enrolment.
  7. Prepare for Visa Application
    Since Duolingo is not accepted for visas, plan to take an approved English test (like IELTS or TOEFL) once your admission is secured.

How Can upGrad Help with Duolingo Admissions in Australia?

If you're applying to Duolingo accepted universities in Australia, upGrad can support you throughout the process, from test guidance to admission and visa preparation.

  • Personalised 1:1 Counselling
    Get expert advice on universities in Australia that accept Duolingo scores, based on your profile and goals.
  • SOP and Application Support
    upGrad helps you craft a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP) and ensures your application is complete and well-structured.
  • Shortlisting DET-Compatible Universities
    Receive curated lists of top Australian institutions that currently accept the Duolingo English Test for UG/PG programs.
  • Scholarship and Conditional Offer Guidance
    Get help in identifying scholarship options and understanding conditional admission policies related to Duolingo.
  • Visa Preparedness Planning
    Since Duolingo is not accepted for the visa, upGrad helps you plan when and how to take an approved English test post-admission.

Start Your Duolingo-Accepted Australia Application with upGrad . Get 1:1 support for university shortlisting, SOP writing, and post-admission visa planning.
👉 Talk to a Counsellor Now

Duolingo vs IELTS vs PTE – Which Is Best for Australia?

With several English proficiency tests available today, finding the right one depends on your goals, timelines, and preferred learning style.

Whether you're aiming for university admission, a visa application, or both, it's important to understand how each test compares.

The table below gives you a side-by-side view of Duolingo, IELTS, and PTE to help you decide with confidence.

Duolingo (DET) 

IELTS Academic 

PTE Academic 

Accepted by 50+ Australian universities  Accepted by all Australian universities  Accepted by all Australian universities 
Online from Home Test Format  Paper or computer based at the test center  Computer-based at the test center 
Student Visa Not Accepted  Student visa accepted by Australian Immigration  Student visa accepted by Australian Immigration 
Exam Duration: ~1 hour  Exam Duration: ~2 hours 45 minutes  Exam Duration: ~2 hours 
Result declared within 48 hours  Takes 3-5 days for result declaration  Takes 1-5 days for result declaration 
Fees: ₹5,160 (USD 59)  Fees: ₹21,460 (USD 245)  Fees: ₹19,270 (USD 220) 
Score: 10-160  Band: 1-9  Score: 10-90 
Retakes allowed are 2 times per 30 days  Unlimited Retakes (3-day gap)  Unlimited Retakes (5-day gap) 
Best for Quick admission to DET-accepting unis only  Best for Admission + Visa  Best for Admission + Visa 

Each test serves a different need—choose the one that best fits your timeline, purpose, and study goals in Australia.

Conclusion

In summary, the list of Duolingo Accepted Universities in Australia is steadily expanding, providing international students a faster, budget-friendly route to admissions. With top institutions now recognizing the test, it stands as a strong alternative to traditional exams. By understanding requirements and preparing strategically, students can confidently plan their studies in Australia. 

FAQs

Is Duolingo accepted for the Australian student visa?

No. For visas, Australia accepts only specific tests taken at secure test centers (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE, C1 Advanced, etc.). Remote/at-home tests aren’t accepted, and Duolingo isn’t on the approved visa list. Universities may still use DET for admissions. 

If universities accept Duolingo, how do I verify program-level requirements?

Always check the official program page and the university’s English-language entry section; acceptance can differ by faculty or course and change over time. Cross-verify with Duolingo’s “Accepting institutions” search, then confirm on the university site before applying. 

How widely is Duolingo accepted across Australian institutions in 2025?

DET acceptance for admissions has grown and many Australian universities & colleges list Duolingo with minimum scores for UG/PG entry. Independent roundups put the number at dozens of institutions nationwide, but policies vary and are updated periodically, so always verify before applying. 

What DET scores do Australian universities typically ask for (UG/PG)?

Typical published ranges cluster around 95–120 overall, with competitive programs sometimes asking 110–120+ and subscores (Literacy/Production) at set thresholds. Exact cut-offs differ by institution and course, so rely on the program page rather than general lists. 

Are Group of Eight (Go8) universities open to Duolingo?

Some Go8 universities list DET for certain pathways or programs; others prefer IELTS/PTE/TOEFL. Policies are nuanced and can shift, so confirm course-specific guidance on each Go8 site rather than assuming universal DET acceptance. 

If I use Duolingo for admission, will I still meet visa English requirements?

Not necessarily. Admission acceptance does not equate with visa acceptance. You may gain an offer with DET but still need an approved test (e.g., IELTS, PTE, TOEFL iBT at a test centre) for your student (subclass 500) visa application. Plan for both stages. 

How fast can I send Duolingo scores to Australian universities?

DET results typically arrive quickly (often within 48 hours) and can be sent digitally to institutions listed by Duolingo at no extra cost. Use your DET account’s “send results” feature and ensure the university recognises DET for your target course. 

Do Australian universities set Duolingo sub-score minimums?

Many do. Besides an overall score (e.g., 105/115), schools may require minimum Literacy or Production sub-scores. These thresholds differ by program (e.g., Health, Education) and may be higher than general entry. Check the course page carefully. 

Can Duolingo be used for pathway/foundation or ELICOS instead of direct entry?

Yes, some universities/colleges accept DET for foundation or pathway entry or to place you into ELICOS/Academic English first. After meeting pathway requirements, you progress to the degree without re-testing in some cases. Details are institution-specific. 

Is Duolingo easier than IELTS for Australian admissions?

“Easier” is subjective. DET is shorter, cheaper and at-home with rapid results. IELTS/PTE on the other hand are longer, center-based and universally recognized for visas. Choose based on your target university and the need to satisfy both admission and visa requirements. 

What’s the safest strategy if I’m applying with Duolingo in 2025?

Apply with DET only if your target course accepts it and also book an approved visa test (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL iBT at a centre). This dual path protects timelines and avoids last-minute visa hurdles if the course accepts DET but the visa doesn’t. 

Important Resources For PTE/SAT/ACT Exam

PTE Examination Eligibility Criteria

There are no specific PTE exam eligibility criteria set by Pearson VUE – the organizers of the test./

PTE Eligibility

PTE Academic Syllabus

PTE syllabus includes various sections such as Speaking and Writing, Reading, and Listening./

PTE Syllabus

PTE Exam Pattern

The PTE exam pattern is designed to test whether candidates can study at international institutions that have English as the main language for instructions./

PTE Exam Pattern

Mrinal Mandal

Study Abroad Expert |1181 articles published

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