University English requirements

What Duolingo score do you need for Virginia Commonwealth University?

Virginia Commonwealth University asks for a Duolingo English Test score of 105 for undergraduate admission and 110 for graduate admission. VCU says all test scores are valid for two years from the test date, and some graduate programmes require higher scores. Completing VCU's English Language Program is another way to meet the requirement.
  • Guide updated · 31 October 2026
  • 3 sections
  • IELTS

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

VCU Duolingo minimums by level

From VCU's undergraduate and graduate international admissions pages and the graduate bulletin.

Level or programmeDuolingo minimumNotes
Undergraduate105IELTS 6.0 on the same page
Graduate110Some programmes require higher scores

Validity and the IELTS comparison

Both admissions pages say all test scores are valid for two years from the test date. The graduate bulletin repeats the two-year rule for TOEFL, IELTS, PTE and Duolingo and tells applicants to check each programme's requirements for higher scores.

The pages do not give a Duolingo level for graduate assistantships, or a Duolingo-specific sending instruction.

Compared with IELTS: undergraduates need IELTS 6.0 or Duolingo 105, and graduate applicants IELTS 6.5 or Duolingo 110.

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If you fall short

Successful completion of VCU's English Language Program meets the requirement at both levels. The graduate page says some programmes are willing to review applications without test scores for potential conditional admission, though that review does not guarantee it. The bulletin adds that the Office of Admissions may require further study in the English Language Program before full-time enrolment.

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

Frequently asked questions

What Duolingo score does VCU need for undergraduates?+

A minimum of 105.

What Duolingo score does VCU need for graduate programmes?+

A minimum of 110, though some programmes require higher scores.

How long is a Duolingo score valid for VCU?+

Two years from the test date.

What IELTS score matches VCU's Duolingo levels?+

IELTS 6.0 for undergraduates and 6.5 for graduate study.

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.

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