Study In Canada

Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada for International Students

8 min read
Blog Summary The Duolingo English Test (DET) has swiftly become a pivotal gateway for international students aiming to pursue higher education in Canada, particularly with its growing acceptance among over 150 Canadian universities. Marking a significant departure from traditional English language assessments, DET offers a blend of convenience, rapidity, and accessibility, aligning perfectly with the needs of today's global student community. With its online format, immediate results, and the broad recognition of Duolingo accepted universities in Canada, DET is reshaping the landscape of language proficiency requirements.

Statistics reveal a growing trend, with a significant number of students opting for the Duolingo English Test (DET) as their passport to Canadian education. This surge is indicative of a broader shift towards flexible and user-friendly language proficiency assessments. Canadian universities, renowned for their forward-thinking and student-centered policies, have responded positively to this change, ensuring that students from diverse linguistic backgrounds have the opportunity to pursue their dreams in Canada's vibrant academic landscape.

As we delve deeper into the specifics of Duolingo accepted universities in Canada, it's clear that this trend is more than just a temporary shift. It's a testament to Canada's commitment to fostering an inclusive and accessible educational environment, where every student, regardless of their geographical or linguistic background, can thrive.

Overview of Duolingo Test


Attribute

Details

Purpose

To evaluate the English language proficiency of candidates looking to study or immigrate to English-speaking countries.

Format

The test is entirely online, combining adaptive testing with a video interview and writing sample.

Components

- Reading - Writing - Listening - Speaking

Duration

Approximately 1 hour (45-60 minutes), including the setup process.

Scoring Range

10 to 160 points.

Score Validity

2 years from the test date.

Cost

Approximately $49 USD (may vary slightly based on the country).

Accessibility

Can be taken online from anywhere with a reliable internet connection.

Results

Available within 48 hours of test completion.

Security Measures

Uses a combination of test proctoring and AI to ensure test integrity.

Preparation

Official practice tests are available on the Duolingo English Test website.

Acceptance

Accepted by over 150 universities in Canada and many more globally for admissions.

Is the Duolingo Test Accepted in Canada?

The Duolingo English Test has rapidly gained acceptance as a credible and convenient measure of English language proficiency for international students aspiring to study in Canada. This modern, internet-based test offers a streamlined alternative to traditional English proficiency exams such as the TOEFL and IELTS. With its growing acceptance among Canadian universities, the DET is reshaping the landscape of language proficiency requirements for higher education in Canada.

Acceptance of Duolingo Test in Canadian Universities

As of recent updates, there are over 150 duolingo accepted universities in Canada now for admission purposes. This list includes a wide range of institutions, from top-tier universities such as the University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, and McGill University to other notable institutions like Simon Fraser University, University of Alberta, and Dalhousie University. The acceptance of DET scores demonstrates Canada's progressive approach to educational accessibility and its commitment to attracting a diverse international student body.

Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada minimum score of 75-120

The Duolingo English Test (DET) has been widely recognised by Canadian universities as a valid measure of English language proficiency for international students. This acceptance is part of a broader trend towards more flexible and accessible admissions processes. Below is a detailed overview of Duolingo accepted universities in Canada including their rankings and the minimum DET scores required for admission.

DET Canada University

QS Ranking 2024

Minimum DET Score

University of Toronto

21

120

University of Alberta

111

115-125

McGill University

30

120

McMaster University

=189

75-115

Simon Fraser University

318

125

Dalhousie University

298

115-120

Queen’s University

_

110-115

Concordia University

=387

105-120

University of Calgary

182

115-125

University of British Columbia

=34

120

University of Waterloo

112

120-125

University of Ottawa

=203

110-120

Cape Breton University

_

120

Algoma University

_

110

University of Regina

1001-1200

110+

University of Windsor

641-650

120

Explore more Canadian Universities with aecc Search 

Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada For Masters 2024

here is a list of some Canadian universities that accept Duolingo English Test (DET) for Master's programs in 2024:

  • University of Toronto
  • McGill University
  • University of Alberta
  • McMaster University
  • Simon Fraser University
  • Dalhousie University
  • Queen's University
  • Concordia University
  • Carleton University
  • University of Waterloo
  • Ontario Tech University
  • University of Calgary
  • University of Ottawa
  • University of British Columbia

Duolingo English Test Requirements for Canadian Universities

Here's a detailed look at the requirements associated with the Duolingo English Test for applicants to Canadian universities.

Minimum Score Requirements

The minimum DET score requirements vary across universities and programmes. However, a common benchmark is that a score above 110 is generally equated to an IELTS score of 6.5 and a TOEFL score of 80. Some universities may have higher requirements, especially for competitive programmes, while others may accept lower scores for certain courses or conditional admissions.

Documents Required for the Duolingo English Test

To ensure a smooth and secure testing experience, Duolingo has set specific requirements for test-takers. Here are the essential documents and preparations needed:

  • Government-Issued Photo ID: Test-takers must have a valid government-issued photo ID to verify their identity. This could be a passport, national ID card, or driver's license. The name on the ID must match the name used to register for the test.
  • Test Environment Requirements: A quiet, well-lit room is necessary to take the test without interruptions. The testing environment should be free from distractions and other people to comply with Duolingo's test integrity policies.

Technical Requirements:

  • A reliable computer with a front-facing camera, microphone, and speakers. Tablets and smartphones are not permitted.
  • A stable internet connection is crucial to prevent disconnections during the test.
  • The latest version of a supported web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge).
  • Test-takers must create a Duolingo account if they don't already have one. The account is used to register for the test, make payments, and receive results.

What is the Duolingo Exam Pattern?

The Duolingo English Test is an adaptive test that evaluates a candidate's ability to read, write, speak, and listen in English. The test is conducted online, allowing candidates to take it from the comfort of their homes. It's designed to be convenient and accessible, requiring only a computer with a camera, microphone, speakers, and a reliable internet connection.

Exam Pattern Details

Duration: The test takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes to complete.

Format: The DET is entirely computer-based and adaptive, meaning the difficulty level of the questions adjusts based on the test taker's responses.

Sections: The test comprises various types of questions that assess reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. It includes a graded section and an ungraded interview.

Graded Section: This part evaluates language proficiency through a variety of question types, including:

Reading and Listening Comprehension: Test takers answer questions based on written texts and audio clips.

Production: Candidates are asked to speak or write in response to prompts.

Literacy: This involves completing sentences and choosing correct words or phrases.

Ungraded Video Interview: After completing the graded section, test takers record open-ended responses to two questions. This part is not scored but is sent to institutions along with the test score to provide a fuller picture of the candidate's English proficiency and communication skills.

Duolingo Scores Break-up 

Unlike traditional English proficiency tests, DET provides a unique and flexible testing experience, with scores ranging from 10 to 160. This range is divided into different proficiency levels, reflecting a candidate's ability in the English language. Here's a detailed breakdown of how Duolingo scores are evaluated and what they signify:

Score Range and Proficiency Levels

10-55 (Basic): Scores within this range indicate basic comprehension and communication skills in English. Candidates can understand very simple English phrases and sentences, can communicate in familiar situations, but have limited ability in complex language use.

60-85 (Intermediate): This score range signifies intermediate proficiency. Candidates can understand and communicate on a wide range of topics in English, including reading simple texts, engaging in conversations on familiar subjects, and writing straightforward information.

90-115 (Upper-Intermediate): Scores in this bracket reflect upper-intermediate English skills. Candidates can effectively understand and engage with complex texts, participate in detailed discussions, and express ideas with some degree of fluency and spontaneity.

125-160 (Advanced): This highest score range demonstrates advanced proficiency in English. Candidates can easily understand virtually everything heard or read, can summarise information from different spoken and written sources, and can express themselves fluently and precisely even on complex topics.

Components Evaluated

The Duolingo English Test assesses various aspects of language proficiency, including:

Literacy: Evaluates reading and writing skills through a variety of tasks such as completing missing letters in words, writing short answers to questions, and other activities that test the ability to understand written text and express thoughts in writing.

Comprehension: Focuses on listening and reading comprehension. Candidates are tested on their ability to understand spoken and written English through questions based on audio clips, written texts, and video clips.

Conversation: Assesses speaking skills. Candidates are required to speak on various topics, and their ability to communicate effectively in English is evaluated. This includes pronunciation, fluency, and the ability to construct coherent responses.

Production: Tests the ability to produce spoken and written English. This involves tasks that require candidates to write about a given topic or speak on a prompt for a certain duration, assessing their ability to generate and organise ideas in English.

Score Validity and Acceptance

DET scores are valid for two years from the test date, and the test can be retaken multiple times, with a maximum of two attempts allowed within a 30-day period. The flexibility and quick turnaround of results (within 48 hours) make DET an attractive option for students applying to universities.

Benefits of Taking the Duolingo Test 

The Duolingo English Test (DET) has emerged as a popular and innovative option for demonstrating English language proficiency, especially for students aiming to study in Canada. This test offers several benefits over traditional English proficiency exams like TOEFL and IELTS, making it an attractive choice for international students. Here are the detailed benefits of taking the Duolingo test:

1. Convenience and Accessibility

One of the most significant advantages of the Duolingo test is its convenience. Candidates can take the test from the comfort of their own homes or any location with a stable internet connection. This eliminates the need to travel to a test centre, which can be particularly beneficial in regions where access to traditional test centres is limited or during circumstances that prevent physical attendance, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

2. Quick Results

The Duolingo test provides results within 48 hours of test completion, a much faster turnaround than traditional tests that can take several days to weeks. This rapid feedback is invaluable for students working on tight application deadlines, allowing them to quickly make decisions or meet the necessary requirements for their applications.

3. Affordability

Compared to other English proficiency tests, the Duolingo test is more affordable, with a fee significantly lower than that of TOEFL or IELTS. This cost-effectiveness is a crucial factor for many students, especially those managing tight budgets for their study abroad plans.

4. Equitable Evaluation

The Duolingo test uses advanced AI technology to ensure a fair and consistent evaluation of a candidate's English proficiency. This technology minimises human bias, providing an equitable testing environment for all test-takers regardless of their background.

5. Broad Acceptance

Over 150 universities in Canada now accept the Duolingo English Test, showcasing its growing recognition and acceptance. This broad acceptance across various institutions offers students a wide range of options for their higher education pursuits in Canada.

6. Flexibility

The Duolingo test does not require scheduling an appointment, offering unparalleled flexibility to test-takers. Students can take the test at any time that suits them, making it easier to fit into busy schedules or to retake the test if needed.

7. Practicality

The Duolingo test is designed to assess real-world language proficiency, evaluating candidates' ability to read, write, speak, and listen in English. This practical approach ensures that the test accurately reflects a student's ability to use English in academic and everyday contexts.

8. Multiple Attempts

Candidates can retake the Duolingo test multiple times to improve their scores, with only a short waiting period between attempts. This feature allows students to strive for their best possible score without long delays.

Read More:

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Duolingo valid for Canada student visa?

Yes, many Canadian universities accept Duolingo scores for admissions, which can be used to support your student visa application.