Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
Villanova Duolingo minimums by programme
From the graduate studies international applicants page of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and the first-year applicants page.
| Level or programme | Duolingo minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate: Philosophy PhD, Theology PhD, Communication | 130 | Highest tier |
| Graduate: Computer Science, Higher Education Leadership, History, Political Science, Software Engineering, Theology MA/MMT/MTS | 120 | Middle tier |
| Graduate: all other arts and sciences programmes | 110 | Default |
| Undergraduate (first year) | No minimum stated | Duolingo English Test is an accepted test |
Validity, sending and the IELTS comparison
The graduate page says scores are valid from exams taken up to two years before the programme's application deadline, and official Duolingo scores should be sent electronically through the Duolingo platform. It refers to the online DET. The first-year page asks you to use the same email address for your test and your Villanova application so the result can be verified. Neither page sets Duolingo subscores or mentions teaching assistantships.
For comparison, the same graduate page asks for IELTS Academic 7.5 for the 130 programmes, 7 for the 120 programmes and 6.5 for all others.
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If your Duolingo score falls short
Neither page offers a conditional or pathway route. The graduate page says you do not need a test if you are a citizen of Australia, Canada, the UK, Ireland or New Zealand, or earned your previous degree in the US or one of those countries.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one on your Villanova programme page and in your offer letter, so check it there before you book a test.
Frequently asked questions
What Duolingo score does Villanova need for grad school?+
110 for most arts and sciences programmes, 120 for programmes such as Computer Science and History, and 130 for the Philosophy PhD, Theology PhD and Communication.
Does Villanova accept Duolingo for undergraduates?+
Yes, it is on the accepted list, but the first-year page read today gives no minimum score.
How long is Duolingo valid for Villanova grad school?+
The test must be taken no more than two years before the programme's application deadline.
How do I send Duolingo scores to Villanova?+
Electronically through the Duolingo platform, using the same email as your application for undergraduates.
Keep reading
Related
- Villanova University IELTS requirement
- Hofstra University Duolingo requirement
- How to send Duolingo English Test results
- Duolingo English Test score chart
- 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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