Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
University of Cincinnati Duolingo minimums
From the international first-year requirements page and the graduate admission requirements page. The first-year table lists Duolingo by college; the College of Nursing row shows no Duolingo score.
| Level or programme | Duolingo minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First-year, most colleges (A&S, CECH, CEAS, Lindner, DAAP, Medicine, Allied Health, Blue Ash, Clermont) | 100 | 100 Production and 100 Conversation |
| First-year, College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) | 100 | 80 Production and 80 Conversation |
| First-year, College of Nursing | Not listed | Table shows SAT and ACT only |
| Graduate (university minimum) | 110 | Some programmes ask for more |
Validity and sending
The first-year page only accepts English test scores that are valid up to two years before the start of the term you apply for. Request that Duolingo send your score report electronically from your Duolingo English Test account to the University of Cincinnati.
For graduate admission, UC only accepts official scores sent directly from the testing agency, preferably electronically.
IELTS comparison: the first-year table asks IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.0 Writing and Speaking for most colleges, and the graduate page asks 6.5 overall.
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If your score is lower
For graduate applicants, completing Level 112 of intensive English at an ELS Language Center is listed as a way to meet the requirement. The first-year section links to a separate conditional admission page.
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 Cincinnati need for first-years?+
100 overall with 100 in Production and Conversation for most colleges; CCM asks 80 in those subscores.
What Duolingo score does UC graduate school need?+
At least 110, with higher minimums in some programmes.
Does the College of Nursing list a Duolingo score?+
No. Its row in the first-year table shows no Duolingo minimum.
How recent must my Duolingo score be for UC first-year admission?+
Valid up to two years before the start of the term you apply for.
Keep reading
Related
- University of Cincinnati IELTS requirement
- Ohio State University Duolingo requirement
- Duolingo English Test score chart
- 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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