Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
Michigan State Duolingo levels
From the undergraduate language requirements page and the Graduate School English language competency page. The graduate page says some programmes set minimums higher than the MSU standard.
| Level or programme | Duolingo minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate, regular admission | 110 | Most scores can be self-reported |
| Undergraduate, provisional admission | 95-105 | MSUELT on arrival |
| Graduate, regular admission | 110 | Some programmes ask for more |
| Graduate, provisional admission | 95-105 | English Language Center classes until the requirement is met |
Self-reporting, sending and IELTS comparison
Undergraduates can self-report most English test scores on the application. If you are admitted on self-reported scores, official scores must be sent before you enrol, and any score update must come directly from the testing agency. If a provisionally admitted student sends a new qualifying score before the semester begins, MSU updates the admission to regular.
IELTS comparison: both pages ask for IELTS 6.5 for regular admission (no subscore below 6.0 at graduate level) and 6.0 for provisional admission.
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Provisional admission explained
Provisionally admitted undergraduates take the MSUELT on arrival and are placed into full-time academic courses, a mix of academic and English courses, or full-time English at MSU's English Language Center. Provisionally admitted graduate students may not take a full academic course load until they meet the university's English requirement.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Michigan State programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What Duolingo score does Michigan State need?+
110 or higher for regular admission, for both undergraduates and graduate students.
Can I get into Michigan State with Duolingo 100?+
Scores of 95-105 can be considered for provisional admission, with the MSU English Language Test on arrival.
Can I self-report Duolingo to Michigan State?+
Undergraduates can self-report most scores; official scores are needed before you enrol if admitted.
Do some MSU graduate programmes need more than 110?+
Yes. The graduate page says some programmes set minimums higher than the MSU standard.
Keep reading
Related
- Michigan State University IELTS requirement
- Indiana University Duolingo requirement
- Duolingo vs IELTS for universities
- All 3605 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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