University English requirements

What Duolingo score do you need for Pacific Lutheran University?

Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) asks international undergraduate applicants for a Duolingo English Test score of 115 to meet its general English proficiency requirement. The same page sets IELTS at 6.5, TOEFL at 4.0 and PTE at 56. College English courses, SAT or ACT English scores, and some school diplomas can also satisfy the requirement.
  • Guide updated · 31 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

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

Pacific Lutheran Duolingo minimums

From PLU's international admission apply page.

Level or programmeDuolingo minimumNotes
Undergraduate (first-year and transfer)115General English proficiency requirement

How Pacific Lutheran handles Duolingo scores

Duolingo is one of several ways to meet PLU's general English proficiency requirement. The page gives no Duolingo validity period, subscore rule or sending instructions.

For comparison, the same apply page sets IELTS at 6.5.

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If your Duolingo score is below Pacific Lutheran's level

Other listed routes include one college-level English class with a B or better (two on a quarter system), SAT English 500, ACT English 21, a pre-approved non-PLU ESL programme at CEFR B2, or a secondary diploma from a listed English-speaking country.

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

Frequently asked questions

What Duolingo score does Pacific Lutheran need?+

115.

What IELTS score does PLU ask for?+

6.5.

Can an ESL programme replace the test at PLU?+

Yes, completion of a pre-approved non-PLU ESL programme at CEFR B2 level.

Can the SAT meet PLU's English requirement?+

Yes, SAT English 500 or ACT English 21.

Keep reading

Related

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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