Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 1 November 2026
SOAS Duolingo minimums
From SOAS's English language requirements page, for undergraduate and postgraduate on-campus applicants.
| Level or programme | Duolingo minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Direct entry | 120 | 110 in Speaking, Writing, Reading and Listening subscores |
| With 4-week pre-sessional English | 110 | 110 in Writing, 100 in other subscores |
| With 8-week pre-sessional English | 100 | 100 in subscores |
SOAS's Duolingo rules
SOAS continues to accept Duolingo among its online tests for September 2027 entry, with two-year validity from 1 September 2025, and considers these results alongside other evidence such as references, your CV or personal statement. Research degrees use the Doctoral School's English requirements, and Foundation Year applicants have their own page.
For comparison, the same page sets direct entry at IELTS Academic, IELTS for UKVI or IELTS Online 6.5 with 6.0 in all subscores.
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If your Duolingo score is short
If you do not fully meet your course's requirement, SOAS may offer a 4-week or 8-week Pre-sessional English course in the summer before the academic year. Its IFCELS pages cover pathway, in-sessional and foundation options.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your SOAS programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
Does SOAS accept the Duolingo English Test?+
Yes, as an online test for September 2027 entry.
What Duolingo score does SOAS need?+
120 with 110 in each SWRL subscore for direct entry.
Can I enter SOAS with a lower Duolingo score?+
Yes, with a pre-sessional course: 110 (110 in Writing) with 4 weeks or 100 with 8 weeks.
How long is Duolingo valid for SOAS?+
SOAS gives two-year validity from 1 September 2025 for September 2027 entry.
Keep reading
Related
- SOAS IELTS requirement
- Goldsmiths Duolingo requirement
- Royal Holloway Duolingo requirement
- IELTS for the UK: scores by university and visa
- All 4750 guides
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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