University English requirements

What Duolingo score do you need for Seattle Pacific University?

Seattle Pacific University (SPU) asks undergraduate international applicants for a Duolingo English Test score of 105. The same page sets IELTS at 6.5 and PTE Academic at 56. Applicants below the minimum, or without a test, may be eligible for conditional admission, and SPU partners with ALPS Language School in Seattle for ESL.
  • Guide updated · 1 November 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 1 November 2026

Seattle Pacific Duolingo minimums by level

From SPU's undergraduate international students page.

Level or programmeDuolingo minimumNotes
Undergraduate (first-year and transfer)105Official results
Conditional admissionBelow 105 or no testConvert to full admission via ALPS level 5 or another listed option

How Seattle Pacific handles Duolingo scores

Applicants establish proficiency with official results from a listed test that meets the minimum. SPU does not offer ESL classes on campus.

The page gives no Duolingo validity period or subscore rule.

For comparison, the same page sets IELTS at 6.5.

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If your Duolingo score is below Seattle Pacific's level

Applicants whose score does not meet the minimum, or who have not taken a test, may be eligible for conditional admission; screening is requested by emailing SPU international admissions. Completing level 5 of the ESL programme at ALPS Language School qualifies you for full admission. SPU also issues conditional transfer admission letters to students at partner Washington community colleges.

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

Frequently asked questions

What Duolingo score does Seattle Pacific need?+

105 for undergraduate international applicants.

Does SPU offer conditional admission?+

Yes, for applicants below the minimum or without a test score.

Does Seattle Pacific have ESL classes?+

Not on campus. It partners with ALPS Language School, where level 5 meets the requirement.

What is SPU's IELTS equivalent?+

IELTS 6.5.

Keep reading

Related

Guide updated on 1 November 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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