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All statistics and data were last checked in October 2025. Rankings are based on Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026 data. For detailed and most updated information regarding admissions, please visit the school websites.
With Duolingo English Test acceptance at top-tier institutions growing, students seeking to enrol in undergraduate programmes can now simplify their application process. Below, we highlight some of the world’s most prestigious universities – based on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026 – accepting Duolingo English Test scores.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, United States
THE World University Rankings 2026 position: 2
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a private research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts, respected the world over for its academic output in the fields of science and technology.
Given MIT’s global standing, the university’s vibrant, diverse community is another significant pull factor, with international students making up 12 per cent of the learners enrolled in the university’s undergraduate programmes and 40 per cent of those studying graduate programmes. Those looking to join them can take the Duolingo English Test to verify their language proficiency, with MIT one of the thousands of top universities accepting the Duolingo English Test for non-native English speakers.
Quick facts:
- Established: 1861
- Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
- Duolingo English Test cutoff score: 120
- International student percentage: 33%
- Students per staff: 7.7
Princeton University, United States
THE World University Rankings 2026 position: 3
Princeton University is an Ivy League institution that is a top choice for international students seeking a world-class education. Princeton’s well-known hub for international students is the Davis International Center, which offers resources to help acclimate students to their new surroundings.
Should international students planning to study abroad at Princeton require proof of their English language proficiency, the good news is that the university’s graduate school is among the many institutions accepting the Duolingo English Test, with assessments taking no more than an hour and results available in just two days, making the process of proving one’s linguistic aptitude seamless.
Quick facts:
- Established: 1746
- Location: New Jersey, United States
- Duolingo English Test cutoff score: Not specified, 125 minimum suggested
- International student percentage: 23%
- Students per staff: 8.2
Harvard University, United States
THE World University Rankings 2026 position: =5
Harvard University is the oldest higher education institution in the United States and globally recognised as a symbol of academic excellence.
For international students, Harvard’s appeal is rooted in its diverse and vibrant global community, including over 6,000 international students from more than 140 countries in the 2024/25 academic year. Harvard’s acceptance of the Duolingo English Test means that learners have an inexpensive way of verifying their language skills as part of their application. Given how competitive entry to Harvard can be, its acceptance of the Duolingo English Test can streamline and simplify at least one part of the application process for international students.
Quick facts:
- Established: 1636
- Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
- Duolingo English Test cutoff score: Duolingo score is accepted but optional
- International student percentage: 27%
- Students per staff: 10.1
Stanford University, United States
THE World University Rankings 2026 position: =5
Stanford University is a first-rate private research institution in California, celebrated for its innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. With its global reputation and commitment to diversity, Stanford is particularly attractive to international students, with thousands enrolling at the institution every year.
International applicants will be pleased to find that Stanford is one of over 6,000 institutions accepting the Duolingo English Test, which is a study abroad English test that is accessible, convenient and affordable.
Quick facts:
- Established: 1885
- Location: Stanford, California, United States
- Duolingo English Test cutoff score: Not required
- International student percentage: 25%
- Students per staff: 5.9
California Institute of Technology, United States
THE World University Rankings 2026 position: 7
The California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is known for its exceptional strengths in science and engineering. It appeals to international students because of its highly selective, research-intensive environment and collaborative, interdisciplinary atmosphere.
Caltech’s appeal to international students is enhanced by its Duolingo English test acceptance, which represents a fast and flexible study abroad English test option for applicants. International students looking for an exceptional university accepting the Duolingo English Test are unlikely to find many with greater renown than Caltech.
Quick facts:
- Established: 1891
- Location: Pasadena, California, United States
- Duolingo English Test cutoff score: 130
- International student percentage: 33%
- Students per staff: 6.7
Imperial College London, United Kingdom
THE World University Rankings 2026 position: 8
Imperial College London is a prestigious UK university specialising in science, engineering, medicine and business, respected around the world for its research-intensive education and innovation-driven outlook.
Imperial’s appeal among international students stems from its global reputation, a highly diverse and multicultural campus and a central London location that provides access to global career opportunities. For international applicants, Imperial College London accepts a variety of study abroad English tests, including the Duolingo English Test, for some of its courses. This can serve as a significant advantage for students seeking a flexible and accessible English test for their application.
Quick facts:
- Established: 1907
- Location: London, United Kingdom
- Duolingo English Test cutoff score: 125 (detailed requirements here)
- International student percentage: 60%
- Students per staff: 12.1
University of California, Berkeley, United States
THE World University Rankings 2026 position: 9
With its long-standing traditions of innovation and social activism, the University of California, Berkeley, is a top-tier public research university renowned for its academic excellence and reputation as a global leader.
Its strengths lie in a wide range of fields, including STEM, humanities and social sciences. The university is a popular choice for learners looking to study abroad. A major advantage for international applicants is the university’s Duolingo English Test acceptance. This makes the Duolingo English Test a convenient and accessible test for many aspiring students who need to include proof of English language proficiency in their applications.
Quick facts:
- Established: 1868
- Location: Berkeley, California, United States
- Duolingo English Test cutoff score: 115
- International student percentage: 25%
- Students per staff: 18.4
University of Pennsylvania, United States
THE World University Rankings 2026 position: 14
The University of Pennsylvania is a world-renowned Ivy League institution that attracts international students seeking a rigorous, interdisciplinary education and strong career outcomes. With globally recognised schools like Wharton, Penn Engineering and the College of Arts and Sciences, it offers exceptional academic breadth and research opportunities.
The university’s location in Philadelphia provides a vibrant, culturally rich environment for students from around the world. The University of Pennsylvania accepts the Duolingo English Test as part of its application process, offering a convenient and accessible way for non-native English speakers to demonstrate their language proficiency when applying to study in the United States.
Quick facts:
- Established: 1740
- Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
- Duolingo English Test cutoff score: Not specified
- International student percentage: 26%
- Students per staff: 6.6
Johns Hopkins University, United States
THE World University Rankings 2026 position: 16
Johns Hopkins University is globally respected for its leadership in research, medicine and public health, making it an ideal choice for international students pursuing innovation and discovery. With campuses across the US and abroad, the university’s international outlook is woven into its academic culture.
Students from around the world are drawn to Johns Hopkins’ emphasis on independent research and interdisciplinary study. The university’s acceptance of the Duolingo English Test provides a flexible and accessible option for international applicants to prove their English proficiency, further simplifying the admissions process for those seeking to join one of the world’s most prestigious research universities.
Quick facts:
- Established: 1876
- Location: Baltimore, Maryland, United States
- Duolingo English Test cutoff score: 120
- International student percentage: 34%
- Students per staff: 5.6
University of California, Los Angeles, United States
THE World University Rankings 2026 position: 18
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is a highly respected public research university known for its academic excellence and diverse student body. UCLA’s key strengths lie in its wide array of top-ranked undergraduate programmes and supportive environment.
It’s an attractive option for international students due to its location in the vibrant, global city of Los Angeles, where nearly half the population speaks a language other than English at home. Regarding the admissions process for international students, UCLA accepts the Duolingo English Test as a way for non-native English speakers to demonstrate their language skills, making the application process as accessible as possible for students worldwide seeking to study abroad.
Quick facts:
- Established: 1919
- Location: Los Angeles, United States
- Duolingo English Test cutoff score: 130
- International student percentage: 15%
- Students per staff: 9.8
Columbia University, United States
THE World University Rankings 2026 position: 20
Columbia University, located in the heart of New York City, offers international students a truly global education experience. As one of the world’s top Ivy League universities, Columbia combines rigorous academia with access to global business, media and cultural institutions.
The university’s diverse community and commitment to research excellence make it a magnet for students from every continent. Columbia accepts the Duolingo English Test as part of its admissions process, allowing international applicants to conveniently demonstrate English proficiency while applying to study in one of the world’s most dynamic academic and professional environments.
Quick facts:
- Established: 1754
- Location: New York City, New York, United States
- Duolingo English Test cutoff score: 135
- International student percentage: 42%
- Students per staff: 5.6
Carnegie Mellon University, United States
THE World University Rankings 2026 position: 24
Carnegie Mellon University is recognised globally for its excellence in computer science, engineering, robotics and the arts. International students are drawn to its innovative and interdisciplinary learning environment, which encourages creativity, collaboration and entrepreneurship.
With a strong focus on research and technology, Carnegie Mellon graduates are highly sought after by leading global employers. The university’s acceptance of the Duolingo English Test makes it easier for international applicants to demonstrate their English language proficiency, helping talented students from around the world access a world-class education and cutting-edge research opportunities in the heart of Pittsburgh.
Quick facts:
- Established: 1900
- Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
- Duolingo English Test cutoff score: 135
- International student percentage: 50%
- Students per staff: 13
University of Washington, United States
THE World University Rankings 2026 position: 25
The University of Washington in Seattle is one of the top public research universities in the world, known for its academic excellence and strong global engagement. International students are drawn to the university’s diverse community, innovative research culture and connections with major industries such as technology and healthcare.
Its Pacific Northwest location offers a welcoming and inclusive environment, complemented by world-class facilities and faculty. The university accepts the Duolingo English Test, providing a flexible and affordable way for non-native English speakers to demonstrate proficiency and join one of the United States’ most respected academic institutions.
Quick facts:
- Established: 1861
- Location: Seattle, Washington, United States
- Duolingo English Test cutoff score: 115
- International student percentage: 18%
- Students per staff: 9.5
Duke University, United States
THE World University Rankings 2026 position: 28
Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, offers a blend of academic excellence, innovative research and a welcoming campus culture that appeals to students from around the world. Known for its strong programmes in medicine, business, public policy and the sciences, Duke fosters collaboration and global awareness across disciplines.
Its beautiful campus and supportive community make it an ideal destination for international students. Duke accepts the Duolingo English Test as part of its admissions process, ensuring that non-native English speakers can easily and affordably demonstrate language proficiency while applying to study at this prestigious US institution.
Quick facts:
- Established: 1838
- Location: Durham, North Carolina, United States
- Duolingo English Test cutoff score: 130
- International student percentage: 25%
- Students per staff: 4.4
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