Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
UMBC Duolingo minimums by level
From UMBC's first-year international page, the Graduate School's international applicants page and the Data Science international applicants page.
| Level or programme | Duolingo minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (first-year) | 115 | Listed as a recommended level |
| Graduate School | 115 | Accepted by most programmes; some set higher |
| Data Science (graduate) | 120 | Scores must be less than two years old |
Graduate rules and the IELTS comparison
The Graduate School page says Duolingo is accepted by most, not all, graduate programmes, and that minimum scores vary by programme, so check your programme page. The undergraduate page asks for test results to be submitted electronically to UMBC.
The pages read do not give a Duolingo level for teaching assistantships.
Compared with IELTS: UMBC lists IELTS 6.5 alongside Duolingo 115 for undergraduates and for the Graduate School. The Data Science page asks for IELTS with no section below 6.5, or Duolingo 120.
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If you fall short
The Graduate School page says applicants who are otherwise qualified but need to improve their English may find the English Language Institute works best for them. The pages do not describe a set conditional admission score.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your UMBC programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What Duolingo score does UMBC need for undergraduates?+
UMBC recommends 115 for first-year international applicants.
Does the UMBC Graduate School accept Duolingo?+
Most graduate programmes accept it. The Graduate School minimum is 115, and some programmes set a higher score.
What Duolingo score does UMBC Data Science need?+
A minimum of 120, with scores less than two years old.
What IELTS score matches UMBC's Duolingo level?+
IELTS 6.5 for undergraduate and Graduate School admission.
Keep reading
Related
- UMBC IELTS requirement
- Virginia Commonwealth University Duolingo requirement
- Duolingo score chart and IELTS equivalents
- How to send Duolingo English Test results
- All 3605 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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