Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
Colorado State Duolingo minimums by level
From CSU's undergraduate English language proficiency page and the Graduate School's English proficiency page. The undergraduate page names TOEFL, IELTS Academic and the Duolingo English Test (DET) as the preferred proof of English.
| Level or programme | Duolingo minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate direct admission | 110 | Clear admission minimum |
| Graduate School | 120 | Your department may set a higher score |
| Graduate programme taught in your native language | Waived | Per the Graduate School page |
Validity, sending and the IELTS comparison
The Graduate School page says official scores must come directly from the testing agency, must have been taken within two years before admission, and that photocopies are not accepted. Neither page sets Duolingo subscores. The Graduate School does not accept IELTS General Training, the IELTS Indicator or iTEP. Neither page says anything about teaching assistantships.
For comparison, the same pages set IELTS Academic at 6.0 for undergraduate direct admission and 6.5 for graduate admission, with the Graduate School accepting the IELTS One Skill Retake.
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If your Duolingo score falls short
The undergraduate page says you will be considered for conditional admission if you meet CSU's academic standards but have not sent a qualifying TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo score. Conditionally admitted students enrol in CSU's Intensive English Program until they finish the Academic English Program or reach the required score. Finishing the IEP also counts as proof of English. The graduate page lists no conditional route.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Colorado State programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What Duolingo score does Colorado State need for undergraduates?+
110 for direct undergraduate admission, per CSU's international admissions page.
What Duolingo score does the CSU Graduate School need?+
120. Your department may ask for more.
How old can my Duolingo result be for CSU graduate admission?+
Official scores must be from within two years before admission and sent directly by the testing agency.
Can I get conditional admission to CSU without a Duolingo score?+
Undergraduates who meet the academic standards can be considered for conditional admission and study in the Intensive English Program first.
Keep reading
Related
- Colorado State University IELTS requirement
- CU Boulder Duolingo requirement
- Duolingo vs IELTS for universities
- Duolingo English Test score chart
- All 3605 guides
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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