University English requirements

What Duolingo score do you need for UW-Madison?

The University of Wisconsin-Madison Graduate School requires a Duolingo English Test score of 125. For in-person programmes, a score of 115 to 124 may still lead to admission with programme approval, but you then take an English assessment test on arrival. Undergraduate admissions accepts 115 or higher and asks you to send the score with subscores.
  • Guide updated · 31 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS
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Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026

UW-Madison Duolingo minimums by level

From the Graduate School requirements for admission and the undergraduate international admissions page.

Level or programmeDuolingo minimumNotes
Graduate School125
Graduate, in-person programmes with approval115-124ESLAT on arrival; any recommended ESL course in the first semester
Undergraduate (first-year)115Send with subscores

Validity and sending

Graduate scores are valid if they are less than two years from the first day of your enrolment term, and UW-Madison does not combine scores from several tests. Send Duolingo electronically to "University of Wisconsin - Madison - Graduate Admissions".

Undergraduates should choose the "Undergraduate" search category and then "University of Wisconsin-Madison". The page warns not to send to offices listed under "Other", because admissions cannot retrieve those scores.

IELTS comparison: the Graduate School asks for IELTS 7.0 (6.5 in the ESLAT range), and undergraduate admissions accepts 6.5.

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If your score is lower

The 115-124 graduate route applies only to in-person programmes, under certain circumstances and with programme approval, and you must pass any ESL course recommended after the ESLAT in your first semester. The undergraduate page does not publish a conditional Duolingo range.

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

Frequently asked questions

What Duolingo score does UW-Madison Graduate School need?+

125. Scores of 115-124 may be accepted for in-person programmes with approval and an ESLAT on arrival.

What Duolingo score do UW-Madison undergraduates need?+

115 or higher, sent with subscores.

How long is Duolingo valid for UW-Madison graduate admission?+

Less than two years from the first day of your enrolment term.

Where do I send Duolingo for UW-Madison undergraduate admission?+

Choose the Undergraduate category and select University of Wisconsin-Madison, not an office under Other.

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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.

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