University English requirements

What Duolingo score do you need for Cal State Long Beach?

Cal State Long Beach asks for a Duolingo English Test score of 105 for undergraduate (bachelor's) admission and 115 for post-baccalaureate and graduate admission. Duolingo is not listed on the Cal State Apply application, so you choose the option for not adding standardized tests and then release your official Duolingo report to CSULB after applying.
  • Guide updated · 31 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026

CSULB Duolingo minimums by level

From CSULB's English language requirement page for international applicants.

Level or programmeDuolingo minimumNotes
Undergraduate (bachelor's)105Release report after applying
Post-baccalaureate115Includes graduate applicants
American Language Institute (alternative)Level 4 / Level 6Undergraduate / post-baccalaureate

Sending and the IELTS comparison

Because Duolingo is not on Cal State Apply, the page tells you to pick "I Am Not Adding Any Standardized Tests" on the application and then release your official Duolingo report to CSULB. The page does not state a validity period, set Duolingo subscores or mention teaching assistantships.

For comparison, the same page sets IELTS at 6.0 for bachelor's and 6.5 for post-baccalaureate study.

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If your Duolingo score falls short

Completing the American Language Institute at CSU Long Beach meets the requirement: Level 4 for undergraduates and Level 6 for post-baccalaureate applicants. Applicants educated in the listed English-speaking countries do not need a test.

Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your CSULB programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.

Frequently asked questions

What Duolingo score does Cal State Long Beach need?+

105 for bachelor's admission and 115 for post-baccalaureate study.

How do I add Duolingo on Cal State Apply for CSULB?+

You cannot. Choose the option for not adding standardized tests, then release your official Duolingo report to CSULB.

Is there an alternative to Duolingo at CSULB?+

Yes. Completing American Language Institute Level 4 (undergraduate) or Level 6 (post-baccalaureate).

What IELTS does CSULB accept instead?+

6.0 for bachelor's and 6.5 for post-baccalaureate.

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Guide updated on 31 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.

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