Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
MCPHS Duolingo minimums by admission type
From the English proficiency table on MCPHS's international applicants page.
| Level or programme | Duolingo minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate admission | 115 | Listed with IELTS 6.5 and TOEFL iBT 79 |
| Bridge admission | 105 | Degree study alongside intensive English |
| CAPPS programmes; MS and PhD in Pharmaceutics, Pharmacology, Medicinal Chemistry | No Duolingo figure | Higher level: TOEFL 90 or equivalent |
How MCPHS handles Duolingo scores
MCPHS is test optional except for the English proficiency test, which depends on your native language and your school's language of instruction. The test can be waived for applicants with four years at a US high school, an IB or A level curriculum, or a US bachelor's degree.
A completion certificate from a partner ESL school can replace a test score. The page states no Duolingo validity period or subscore rule.
For comparison, the same table sets IELTS at 6.5 for undergraduate admission and 5.5 for Bridge.
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If your Duolingo score is below MCPHS's level
With 105 to 114 you can apply for Bridge admission. Conditional admission is open to students who have not yet taken a test or need more English; they move to full admission with a qualifying score or by reaching set levels at MCPHS's partner English schools.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your MCPHS programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What Duolingo score does MCPHS need?+
115 for direct undergraduate admission and 105 for Bridge admission.
What is the MCPHS Bridge program?+
An admission route that lets you begin your degree while taking intensive English classes.
What IELTS score matches at MCPHS?+
IELTS 6.5 for direct admission and 5.5 for Bridge.
Do MCPHS graduate programmes need more?+
CAPPS and the Pharmaceutics, Pharmacology and Medicinal Chemistry MS and PhD need TOEFL 90 or equivalent.
Keep reading
Related
- MCPHS University IELTS requirement
- Merrimack College Duolingo requirement
- Duolingo vs IELTS for universities
- Duolingo English Test score chart
- All 3989 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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