Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
RISD Duolingo minimums by level
From RISD's first-year international applicants page, its graduate application page and its graduate international applicants page.
| Level or programme | Duolingo minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First-year undergraduate | 120 | Applies to all ESL applicants, including US citizens |
| Graduate | 120 | Same requirement for international and domestic applicants |
How RISD handles Duolingo scores
Applicants submit results from one of three tests: TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo. RISD calls English proficiency a prerequisite for acceptance.
RISD says it may take up to four days for it to receive Duolingo results, against about three weeks for TOEFL or IELTS scores sent by the test agency. Neither page states a Duolingo validity period or subscore rule.
For comparison, the first-year page and the graduate application page both set IELTS at 7.
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If your Duolingo score is below RISD's level
Neither page describes conditional admission. First-year applicants can instead meet the requirement with an SAT Reading and Writing score of 600 or an ACT score of 25 on both English and Reading. Waivers are possible for applicants educated in English, and graduate waivers are granted sparingly.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your RISD programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What Duolingo score does RISD need?+
120, for both undergraduate and graduate applicants.
What IELTS score does RISD require?+
IELTS 7.
How long does RISD take to receive Duolingo results?+
RISD says it may take up to four days.
Do US citizens need an English test for RISD?+
Yes, if English is their second language.
Keep reading
Related
- RISD IELTS requirement
- Pratt Institute Duolingo requirement
- SAIC Duolingo requirement
- How to send Duolingo English Test results
- 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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