Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 3 November 2026
HKUST Duolingo minimum
From HKUST's University English Language Admissions Requirement for undergraduate programmes. The document lists the Duolingo English Test (DET) with an overall score only.
| Level or programme | Duolingo minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate programmes | 125 overall | No subscore minimum stated |
How HKUST treats Duolingo and other tests
The document says English is the language of instruction at HKUST and that all applicants must demonstrate competence in English before admission. Duolingo is one of the listed ways to do this for undergraduates. The document does not set a validity period or a sending method for Duolingo results.
For comparison, the same document asks for IELTS Academic 6.0 overall, TOEFL iBT 80 in one sitting (4.5 from 21 January 2026) or PTE Academic 64 with no sub-score below 60.
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If your Duolingo score is below 125
The undergraduate list also accepts school English results, for example IB English B Higher Level grade 4, IGCSE English Language grade 4 or C, AP English Language and Composition 4, and Class 12 English at 80% on the All India Senior School Certificate or Indian School Certificate. If you hold one of these, a Duolingo score is not needed.
The document covers undergraduate entry only. Postgraduate applicants should check the HKUST graduate school requirements for their programme.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your HKUST programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What Duolingo score does HKUST need?+
An overall score of 125 for undergraduate admission.
Does HKUST set Duolingo subscore minimums?+
No subscore minimum is printed in the undergraduate requirement.
What is the HKUST IELTS equivalent?+
IELTS Academic 6.0 overall for undergraduates.
Can school English grades replace Duolingo at HKUST?+
Yes. IB, IGCSE, AP, Indian Class 12 English and other listed results also meet the requirement.
Keep reading
Related
- HKUST IELTS requirement
- HKUST TOEFL requirement
- HKUST PTE requirement
- Duolingo vs IELTS for universities
- All 5566 guides
Guide updated on 3 November 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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