Does Stanford Accept the Duolingo English Test?
Yes, Stanford University accepts the Duolingo English Test as proof of English proficiency, but only for undergraduate applicants, and the recommended score is typically around 125 or higher. However, although Stanford University states that submitting English proficiency test scores is optional, international students whose first language is not English—including ESL/EFL applicants—are still strongly encouraged to submit official proof of English proficiency.
This article provides clear and accurate information about Stanford’s position on the Duolingo English Test for both undergraduate and graduate applicants.
Stanford's Official Position on English Proficiency Testing
Undergraduate Applicants
Stanford University takes a flexible and student-friendly approach to English proficiency testing for undergraduate admission. According to the official admissions statement:
“No, we do not require any English proficiency exams. If you would like to send us one, you are welcome to self-report your scores from any English proficiency exam. While these exams are useful in helping us determine applicants’ English proficiency, you may feel your fluency will be clear in other aspects of your application. ”
The university explicitly states that applicants are welcome to self-report scores from any English proficiency exam if they choose to do so. This includes the Duolingo English Test, TOEFL, IELTS, or any other recognized English assessment.
Key points about Stanford's undergraduate English testing policy:
l All exams accepted: You can self-report scores from any English proficiency exam, including Duolingo
l Important prerequisite: Fluency in English is a prerequisite for admission to Stanford, regardless of whether you submit test scores
While Stanford does not specify minimum scores for any English proficiency exam, applicants who choose to submit Duolingo English Test scores should aim for at least 125, with 130 or higher being more competitive. For humanities majors, the required scores may be even higher.
A score of 125 roughly corresponds to TOEFL 95-99 or IELTS 6.5, while 130 aligns with TOEFL 100+ and IELTS 7.0+—the benchmark scores that demonstrate strong English proficiency.
To better understand what these scores mean, you can learn more about What is Duolingo English Test Score?
If you want to assess your current Duolingo English Test level before taking the official exam, you can take a full-length practice test at DETPractice to get familiar with the test format and difficulty level.
Graduate Applicants
Graduate programs have different requirements. Stanford's Graduate Admissions requires TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic scores (minimum TOEFL iBT: 100; IELTS Academic: 7.0) unless applicants meet specific exemption criteria. The Duolingo English Test is not explicitly listed among accepted exams for graduate programs.
Who Should Submit English Proficiency Scores?
For undergraduate applicants, submitting English proficiency test scores is generally recommended if:
1. Your native language is not English
2. The primary language of instruction at your secondary school was not English
3. You want to provide additional evidence of your English language abilities
4. Your application may not clearly demonstrate your English proficiency through other materials
Even when optional, many successful applicants from non-English-speaking backgrounds choose to submit strong Duolingo English Test scores or other standardized test results to strengthen their applications.
Application Deadlines and Testing Timeline
Stanford offers two application timelines for first-year undergraduate applicants:
l Restrictive Early Action: Deadline November 1
l Regular Decision: Deadline January 5
Plan to take your English proficiency test at least several weeks before your application deadline. This ensures you have time to receive your scores and self-report them accurately in your application.
For graduate programs, deadlines vary by department. Check your specific program's website for exact dates and plan your testing accordingly.
Common Questions About English Testing at Stanford
Does Stanford prefer one English test over another?
For undergraduate applications, Stanford has no preference among English proficiency tests. The Duolingo English Test is given equal consideration alongside TOEFL, IELTS, and other assessments. For graduate programs, TOEFL and IELTS are the officially recognized exams, with no stated preference between them.
What if my English proficiency is evident from my application materials?
For undergraduate applications, you may choose not to submit test scores if you believe your English fluency is clear through your essays, coursework, and recommendations. For graduate programs, you must meet the exemption criteria to avoid submitting scores.
Attention: Contact Stanford admissions offices directly with specific questions about your situation. For more information about international applicants, visit the official international admission page.
Conclusion
Stanford University accepts the Duolingo English Test for undergraduate applicants as an optional proof of English proficiency, with scores of 125+ recommended. Graduate programs primarily require TOEFL or IELTS. Understanding these requirements is essential for planning your application strategy.
Important: Admissions policies can change. Always verify current requirements on Stanford's official admissions website.
Additional Resources
Official Duolingo English Test Website - Find updated information about the test and universities that accept it
DETPractice Full-Length Practice Test - Take a complete practice test to assess your readiness
