Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 1 November 2026
LBS Duolingo minimums
From the LBS MBA English information sheet and the Masters English information sheet, linked from the MBA and Masters in Management application pages.
| Level or programme | Duolingo minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| MBA | 135 | At least 125 in each component |
| MiM, Global MiM, MAM, MFA | 135 | At least 125 in each component |
How LBS handles Duolingo scores
Submit a score report with your application and make London Business School the score recipient so the school can verify it electronically. Only tests completed within 2 years of the programme start date in August count.
The application pages say other tests will not be accepted, and that your English is assessed throughout admissions: the Admissions Committee may ask you to take or retake a test.
For comparison, the same sheets ask for IELTS 7.0 with 6.5 in each component.
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If you have no test or a lower score
The Admissions Committee may waive the test. For the MBA you can request an exemption with at least 2 years of professional work in a majority English-speaking country, or a full-time degree taught entirely in English there and completed no more than 5 years before the start date. For the masters programmes the degree route applies, with a 2-year limit.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your LBS programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What Duolingo score does LBS require?+
135 overall with at least 125 in each component.
Is the requirement the same for the MBA and MiM?+
Yes. Both sheets list 135 with 125 in each component.
How old can my Duolingo test be?+
Completed within 2 years of the August programme start date.
Does LBS accept other English tests?+
Only IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge CPE, CAE, PTE Academic and Duolingo.
Can LBS waive the English test?+
At the Admissions Committee's discretion, if you meet the work or degree criteria on the sheet.
Keep reading
Related
- London Business School IELTS requirement
- Henley Business School Duolingo requirement
- Duolingo vs IELTS for universities
- How to send Duolingo English Test results
- All 4750 guides
Guide updated on 1 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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