University English requirements

What Duolingo score do you need for the University of Denver?

The University of Denver asks undergraduate applicants for a Duolingo English Test total of 115 or higher, with no Literacy or Comprehension subscore below 105 and no Conversation or Production subscore below 115. The graduate bulletin sets 115 as the minimum the university accepts, though programmes may set their own figure. Undergraduate scores are valid for two years.
  • Guide updated · 1 November 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 1 November 2026

University of Denver Duolingo minimums by level

From DU's undergraduate English proficiency page and the graduate bulletin's English proficiency policy.

Level or programmeDuolingo minimumNotes
Undergraduate115Literacy and Comprehension 105+, Conversation and Production 115+
Graduate (university minimum)115Individual programmes may set their own requirement
Graduate teaching assistantsSee GTA policyMust meet the Required Tests for GTA Eligibility policy

How the University of Denver handles Duolingo scores

For undergraduates, every score and subscore requirement must be met in a single test. DU does not superscore or accept superscores such as TOEFL MyBest. Test scores are valid for two years from the testing date.

The graduate bulletin requires official scores from all graduate applicants whose native language is not English, regardless of citizenship. It notes that graduate teaching assistants must meet a separate GTA eligibility policy, which the English proficiency page does not reproduce.

For comparison, the undergraduate page sets IELTS at 6.5 with no band below 5.5, and the graduate bulletin sets IELTS at 6.5.

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If your Duolingo score is below Denver's level

Neither page describes conditional admission or an English pathway. Undergraduates may instead qualify for an exemption, for example with an SAT EBRW score of 600 or an ACT English score of 25, though DU says exemptions are not guaranteed.

Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your University of Denver 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 Denver need?+

115 for undergraduates, with subscores, and 115 as the graduate minimum.

Does DU superscore Duolingo results?+

No. Undergraduate score and subscore requirements must be met in a single test.

How long is a Duolingo score valid for DU?+

Two years from the testing date, per the undergraduate page.

What is DU's IELTS equivalent?+

IELTS 6.5, with no band below 5.5 for undergraduates.

Keep reading

Related

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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