Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
NMSU Duolingo minimums by level
From NMSU's international admissions page and the Graduate School's English proficiency page.
| Level or programme | Duolingo minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (freshman and transfer) | 95 | IELTS 6.0 on the same page |
| Graduate (full) | 105 | Doctoral students must meet this level |
| Master's with placement test | 95 to 104 | English Language Placement Test before coursework |
Graduate rules and the IELTS comparison
The Graduate School page says master's students admitted with Duolingo 95 to 104, IELTS 6.0 or the matching TOEFL range must take the English Language Placement Test. If the results fall short, they may have to take additional academic English classes. Doctoral applicants must meet the full minimum.
Neither page gives a Duolingo validity period, a sending instruction or a teaching assistant level.
Compared with IELTS: undergraduates need IELTS 6.0 or Duolingo 95, and graduate applicants IELTS 6.5 or Duolingo 105.
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If you fall short
The placement-test route above is the main option for master's applicants just below 105. Undergraduates may have the test waived after two full years at a US high school, or after 24 semester credits at a US college with a 2.0 GPA, per the admissions page.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your NMSU programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What Duolingo score does NMSU need for undergraduates?+
95 for first-time freshmen and transfer students.
What Duolingo score does the NMSU Graduate School need?+
105.
Can I start an NMSU master's with Duolingo 100?+
Yes, master's students with 95 to 104 can be admitted but must take the English Language Placement Test before coursework.
What IELTS score matches NMSU's Duolingo levels?+
IELTS 6.0 for undergraduates and 6.5 for graduate study.
Keep reading
Related
- New Mexico State University IELTS requirement
- University of Nebraska Omaha Duolingo requirement
- Duolingo score chart and IELTS equivalents
- IELTS for the USA: scores by university
- 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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