University English requirements

What Duolingo score do you need for MTSU?

Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) asks most international undergraduates for a Duolingo English Test score of 85. The Professional Pilot and Nursing programmes and all graduate study ask for 95. MTSU treats scores as valid for two years from the test date and accepts them only when sent directly by the testing agency.
  • Guide updated · 31 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026

MTSU Duolingo minimums by level

From MTSU's international undergraduate admission page and its international graduate students page.

Level or programmeDuolingo minimumNotes
Undergraduate, general85Listed with IELTS 5.5
Undergraduate, Professional Pilot or Nursing95Listed with IELTS 6.0
Graduate95Only F-1 students must submit, unless the programme specifies

How MTSU handles Duolingo scores

Both pages say test scores are valid for up to two years from the test date and that official scores must be sent directly to the international office by the testing agency. MTSU does not accept score reports sent by students.

If an organisation funds your study, MTSU asks you to check that the funder also accepts your chosen test.

For comparison, the undergraduate page sets IELTS at 5.5 (6.0 for Pilot and Nursing), and the graduate page asks IELTS 6.

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If your Duolingo score is below MTSU's level

Neither page sets a lower Duolingo band for conditional admission. Undergraduates can instead show an ELS Level 110 certificate (Level 112 for Pilot and Nursing), and graduate applicants an ELS Level 112 certificate.

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

Frequently asked questions

What Duolingo score does MTSU need?+

85 for most undergraduates, and 95 for Professional Pilot, Nursing and graduate study.

How long is a Duolingo score valid for MTSU?+

Up to two years from the test date.

Can I upload my own Duolingo report to MTSU?+

No. Official scores must come directly from the testing agency.

What IELTS score matches at MTSU?+

IELTS 5.5 for most undergraduates and 6 for graduate study.

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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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