University English requirements

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

The University of Houston sets a Duolingo English Test minimum of 105 for both undergraduate and graduate admission, with IELTS at 6.5 overall on the same pages. Undergraduate DET scores expire two full years after the test date, and graduate scores are generally valid for two years and must be valid when you apply.
  • Guide updated · 31 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026

University of Houston Duolingo minimums by level

From UH's undergraduate English language requirements page and the Graduate School's English proficiency page.

Level or programmeDuolingo minimumNotes
Undergraduate105Expires two full years after the test date
Graduate (university minimum)105Some programmes require more

UH's Duolingo rules

Undergraduate test scores must be sent directly from the testing agency, and Duolingo should send the score report to Undergraduate Admissions.

Graduate scores must be valid and reportable when you submit the application and are generally valid for two years from the test date. Some graduate programmes require scores above the university minimum, so check the programme website. Neither page sets Duolingo subscores.

For comparison, the undergraduate page sets IELTS at 6.5 and TOEFL iBT at 4.0, and the graduate page sets IELTS Academic at 6.5 overall and PTE at 53.

Know your target? Check where you stand

Take a free AI-scored IELTS mock and see your score per skill before you book the real test. Free account, no card.

Take a free mock →

Practise before you book: free IELTS mock test, IELTS reading practice, IELTS listening practice and IELTS speaking predictions.

If your Duolingo score is below 105

Graduate applicants can instead complete Level 6 of the Intensive English Program at UH's Language and Culture Center. Transfer applicants may have the requirement waived through qualifying college-level courses.

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

A minimum of 105 for both undergraduate and graduate admission.

How long is a Duolingo score valid at UH?+

Two years from the test date. Graduate scores must be valid when you submit the application.

Where do I send Duolingo scores for UH undergraduate admission?+

Have Duolingo send the score report to Undergraduate Admissions.

Is there an alternative to Duolingo for UH graduate school?+

Completing Level 6 of the Intensive English Program at the Language and Culture Center.

Keep reading

Related

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.

© 2026 BandLadder. Written and checked by the BandLadder team. You may quote or cite this page with credit to BandLadder and a link to it; republishing it in full needs our written permission. Content use policy