University English requirements

What Duolingo score do you need for McGill University?

McGill University accepts the Duolingo English Test for undergraduate admission with a score of 125 or better, rising to 130 for the B.Ed. (TESL) and B.Com. Results must come directly from Duolingo; you cannot upload them. McGill's graduate admissions page states that the Duolingo English Test is not accepted for admission to graduate programmes.
  • Guide updated · 1 November 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 1 November 2026

McGill Duolingo minimums

From McGill's undergraduate English proficiency page and the graduate proficiency page.

Level or programmeDuolingo minimumNotes
Undergraduate (most programmes)125Score of 125 or better
B.Ed. (TESL) and B.Com.130Higher programme level
Graduate programmesNot acceptedDET and PTE are not accepted for graduate admission

How McGill handles Duolingo results

When a test is required, results must come directly from the examining institution to McGill, and applicants cannot upload them. McGill strongly prefers to receive results electronically, and institutional versions of tests are not accepted. The undergraduate page does not state a separate subscore requirement for Duolingo.

For comparison, the same page sets IELTS Academic at 6.5 with component scores of 6.0 or better; McGill does not accept the IELTS One Skill Retake.

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If you fall short or are applying to graduate school

Graduate applicants need another accepted test such as IELTS or TOEFL, or one of the exemptions on the graduate page, for example a degree from a recognised institution where English is the language of instruction. Undergraduates can also meet the requirement through school qualifications McGill lists, such as A-Level English at grade C or better, or IB Group 1 English at 5 or better.

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

Frequently asked questions

What Duolingo score does McGill need?+

125 or better for most undergraduate programmes, and 130 for the B.Ed. (TESL) and B.Com.

Does McGill accept Duolingo for a master's or PhD?+

No. The graduate page says the Duolingo English Test is not accepted for graduate programmes.

Can I upload my Duolingo result to McGill?+

No. Results must come directly from the testing organisation.

What is McGill's IELTS equivalent?+

IELTS Academic 6.5 with each component at 6.0 or better.

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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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