University English requirements

What Duolingo score do you need for UConn?

UConn asks for a Duolingo English Test score of 110 for undergraduate admission and 110 for graduate admission. Graduate scores are valid for two years from the test date to the date you submit your application. Teaching assistants must show English proficiency under UConn's separate TA policy, even if the requirement was waived for admission.
  • Guide updated · 31 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

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

UConn Duolingo minimums by level

From UConn's international first-year admissions page and the Graduate School's admission requirements page.

Level or programmeDuolingo minimumNotes
Undergraduate (first year)110Conditional admission via UCAELI below this
Graduate School110Valid two years to application date

Validity, teaching assistants and the IELTS comparison

The Graduate School says TOEFL, IELTS, PTE and Duolingo scores are only valid for two years, counted from the original test date to the date you submit your UConn application. Self-reported or uploaded scores are unofficial, so ask Duolingo to send your score electronically to UConn. Even when English is waived for admission, teaching assistants must still prove English under UConn's English Proficiency Policy for TAs. Neither page sets Duolingo subscores.

For comparison, the same pages set IELTS at 6.5 at both levels. The Graduate School accepts IELTS Online but not the IELTS One Skill Retake.

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If your Duolingo score falls short

Undergraduates who are otherwise admissible but cannot meet the English requirement may be offered conditional admission and invited to study at the UConn American English Language Institute (UCAELI). They start their degree once they earn a UCAELI Proficiency Certificate. Graduate applicants can also ask UCAELI to send its Proficiency Certificate to the Graduate School as proof of English.

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

Frequently asked questions

What Duolingo score does UConn need?+

110 for undergraduate admission and 110 for the Graduate School.

How long is Duolingo valid for UConn grad school?+

Two years from the original test date to the date you submit your application.

Do UConn teaching assistants need extra English proof?+

Yes. TAs must meet UConn's English Proficiency Policy for TAs even if English was waived for admission.

Does UConn offer conditional admission?+

Undergraduates can be offered conditional admission with study at UCAELI.

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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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