University English requirements

What Duolingo score do you need for Fresno State?

Fresno State asks international undergraduates for a Duolingo English Test score of 100 and graduate applicants for 105, with some graduate programmes requiring 110. IELTS is 6.0 and 6.5 respectively. If you have no qualifying score, conditional admission through the American English Institute is open in selected programmes, and Duolingo is accepted there for placement.
  • Guide updated · 31 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

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

Fresno State Duolingo minimums by level

From Fresno State International Office pages for undergraduates, graduates and conditional admission.

Level or programmeDuolingo minimumNotes
Undergraduate100Official score; also email an unofficial report
Graduate105Some programmes require 110
Conditional admission (ESL plus degree)No minimumDuolingo accepted for AEI placement

How Fresno State handles Duolingo scores

Both application pages ask for official English proficiency results and an unofficial score report emailed with your other documents. Graduate applicants with a US bachelor's or master's degree do not need an English test.

Neither page states a Duolingo validity period or subscore rule.

For comparison, the undergraduate page sets IELTS at 6.0 or 5.5 in each section, and the graduate page sets IELTS at 6.5.

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If your Duolingo score is below Fresno State's level

Fresno State offers conditional admission (ESL plus undergraduate or ESL plus graduate) in selected degrees to students without a qualifying score. You receive a two-year language study I-20, study at the on-campus American English Institute, and move to an academic I-20 once you meet the requirements. A Duolingo report is accepted for placement with no minimum score. Graduate students must also meet any GRE or GMAT requirement.

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

Frequently asked questions

What Duolingo score does Fresno State need for undergraduates?+

100.

What Duolingo score does Fresno State need for graduate study?+

105, and some programmes require 110.

Can I apply to Fresno State without a qualifying Duolingo score?+

Yes, through conditional admission in selected programmes, studying first at the American English Institute.

What is Fresno State's IELTS equivalent?+

6.0 for undergraduates and 6.5 for graduate applicants.

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Related

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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