Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 1 November 2026
UC Duolingo minimums by level
From UC's minimum English language test results page.
| Level or programme | Duolingo minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (except teaching) | 105 | No individual band below 95 |
| Postgraduate | 120 | No individual band below 105 |
| Certificate in Foundation Studies or Diploma in University Studies (UCIC) | 95 | No band below 80 |
| Teaching qualifications | Not listed | The teaching table does not include Duolingo |
How UC handles Duolingo scores
You must reach the standard in one sitting within two years of the expected study start date, and some departments ask for higher results. Upload your test results when you apply in myUC.
UC's English language proficiency page says that once you receive your Duolingo results you need to share them with UC so they can be viewed.
For comparison, the requirements page asks for IELTS Academic 6.0 with 5.5 in each skill for undergraduate study and 6.5 with 6.0 in each for postgraduate.
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If your Duolingo score is below the minimum
The UCIC-taught Certificate in Foundation Studies and Diploma in University Studies accept Duolingo 95 with no band below 80. Completing the Pre-masters One Semester (CertArts) at UCIC also meets the English requirement for most UC master's programmes.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your UC programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What Duolingo score does the University of Canterbury need?+
105 with no band below 95 for undergraduate study.
What is UC's postgraduate Duolingo minimum?+
120 with no band below 105.
Can I use Duolingo for a UC teaching qualification?+
The teaching qualification table does not list Duolingo.
How old can my Duolingo result be?+
It must be within two years of your expected start date, from one sitting.
What is UC's IELTS equivalent?+
IELTS Academic 6.0 (5.5) undergraduate, 6.5 (6.0) postgraduate.
Keep reading
Related
- University of Canterbury IELTS requirement
- Massey University Duolingo requirement
- Duolingo vs IELTS for universities
- IELTS for New Zealand: scores by university
- 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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