Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
University of Iowa Duolingo minimums by level
From Graduate Admissions' English proficiency requirements page and Undergraduate Admissions' English proficiency requirements page.
| Level or programme | Duolingo minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate admission | 120 | EPE required on arrival for all Duolingo admits |
| Undergraduate admission | Not listed | The page lists TOEFL, IELTS and Cambridge options, not Duolingo |
The EPE, sending and the IELTS comparison
The graduate page says to send Duolingo results through the Duolingo English Test. It states that all students admitted with Duolingo or PTE scores must take the EPE when they arrive. Only a TOEFL score of 100 (or 5.0 on the 2026 scale) or an IELTS of 8.0 avoids the EPE, so a Duolingo applicant cannot test out of it in advance. The page sets no Duolingo subscores, states no validity period and does not mention teaching assistantships. It notes that requirements vary by programme.
For comparison, the same graduate page asks for IELTS 7 overall with no band below 6.
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If your Duolingo score falls short
The graduate page gives no conditional or pathway route for applicants below 120. The undergraduate page explains that students who are placed into ESL courses can test out of them through the EPE on arrival. If your score is close, check whether your programme sets its own minimum before you apply.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Iowa programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
Does the University of Iowa accept Duolingo?+
Yes for graduate admission, at 120 or above. The undergraduate English page read today does not list Duolingo.
Do I have to take the EPE if I use Duolingo at Iowa?+
Yes. All students admitted with Duolingo or PTE scores must take the English Placement Evaluation on arrival.
How do I send Duolingo results to the University of Iowa?+
Graduate Admissions says to send them through the Duolingo English Test.
Can Iowa programmes ask for more than Duolingo 120?+
The page says English proficiency requirements vary by programme, so check yours.
Keep reading
Related
- University of Iowa IELTS requirement
- University of Nebraska–Lincoln Duolingo requirement
- Duolingo vs IELTS for universities
- IELTS for the USA: scores by university
- 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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