University English requirements

What Duolingo score do you need for the University of Hawaii at Hilo?

The University of Hawaii at Hilo admits undergraduates directly into a degree programme with a Duolingo English Test score of 90, provided the academic requirements are met. Graduate admission needs 100. Undergraduates below 90, or without a test, may be admitted first to the English Language Institute.
  • Guide updated · 1 November 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

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

UH Hilo Duolingo minimums by level

From UH Hilo's international undergraduate instructions and the catalogue's graduate admission policies.

Level or programmeDuolingo minimumNotes
Undergraduate, direct admission90Academic requirements must also be met
Graduate100Bachelor's from an English-speaking institution is exempt

How UH Hilo handles Duolingo scores

Undergraduates submit an official copy of their Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, Eiken, SAT or ACT result to the Admissions Office. Once on campus, non-native speakers of English take the English Language Placement Assessment and Writing Placement Assessment unless their scores or transfer credit exempt them.

Neither page states a Duolingo validity period or a teaching assistantship rule.

For comparison, the same pages set IELTS at 5.5 for direct undergraduate admission and 6.0 for graduate study.

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If your Duolingo score is below UH Hilo's level

Undergraduates who meet the academic requirements but have no test result, or a score below 90, may be admitted first to the English Language Institute to prepare for degree study.

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

Frequently asked questions

What Duolingo score does UH Hilo need?+

90 for direct undergraduate admission and 100 for graduate study.

Can I go to UH Hilo with a Duolingo score below 90?+

Undergraduates who meet academic requirements may be admitted first to the English Language Institute.

What is UH Hilo's IELTS equivalent?+

IELTS 5.5 for undergraduates and 6.0 for graduate study.

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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