| Updated On - Dec 4, 2025
Canada has become a leading study destination for Indian students, welcoming over 300,000 students every year. The Duolingo English Test has further streamlined the admission process for 2026. As of 2026, more than 400 universities and colleges across Canada accept DET scores for their UG, PG, and diploma programs. This includes major Canadian public universities like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia, as well as more affordable options like York University, the University of Windsor, and the University of Saskatchewan.
- Minimum DET score requirements in Canada generally range from 110 to 130.
- Most universities require 115-120 for undergraduate admission and 120-125 for master’s programs.
- Leading institutions set higher thresholds: UBC and the University of Calgary often require 125-130.
- University of Toronto, Queen’s University, and McGill University usually expect scores above 120 with balanced sub-scores (no subscore below 100-110).
- A DET score of around 120 is commonly considered comparable to an IELTS 7.0 and is accepted by many of Canada’s top universities.
With annual tuition fees ranging from CAD 20,000 to CAD 65,000 (₹12-40 lakh) and Fall 2026 application deadlines beginning in January, a strong DET score has become an efficient and cost-effective way for Indian students to apply to leading Canadian institutions.
Must Read: DET Makes Studying in Canada Easier for Indian Students
- Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada 2026: Top Universities
- Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada: Test Scores 120-130
- Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada: Test Scores 110-120
- Duolingo Accepted Colleges in Canada in 2026
- Popular Programs and Costs for Indian Students
5.1 Total Estimated Annual Costs for Indians:
- Visa Process for Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada
- Why Take the Duolingo English Test?
- DET vs IELTS vs TOEFL Score Comparison
- FAQs
Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada: Top Universities
Some of the top universities in Canada accepting Duolingo scores in 2026 are mentioned below:
Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada: Test Scores 120-130
The table below lists the top universities in Canada accepting Duolingo with test scores ranging from 120 to 130.
| QS World University Rank 2026 | University | Minimum DET Score for UG | Minimum DET Score for PG | Notes for Indian Students |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #=27 | McGill University | 115-125 | 120 | UG: 125 preferred; global health/engineering. French optional. |
| #=29 | University of Toronto | 120 | 120 | Production sub-score 120; top choice for business/engineering. |
| #=40 | University of British Columbia (UBC) | 125 | 125 | Waiver possible for English-medium Indian schools |
| #=119 | University of Waterloo | 120 | 120-125 | Literacy 110, Production 110; strong in tech/CS. |
| #=168 | University of Montreal | 125 | 125 | French-dominant but English programs available. |
| #=191 | Queen’s University | 120 | 120 | sub-scores 100; Research-intensive. |
| #=211 | University of Calgary | 115-120 | 130 overall, 110 in each subscore | Nursing & medicine are competitive. |
| #=219 | University of Ottawa | 120 | 120 (select programs) | Bilingual (English/French); law/arts popular. |
| #=283 | Dalhousie University | 120 | 120 | Ocean sciences/law. |
Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada: Test Scores 110-120
The table below lists the top universities in Canada accepting Duolingo with test scores ranging from 110 to 120.
| QS World University Rank 2026 | University | Minimum DET Score for UG | Minimum DET Score for PG | Notes for Indian Students |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #=173 | McMaster University | 115 | 120 | Health sciences focus |
| #=333 | York University | 115 | 115 | Affordable; good for media/arts. |
| #=151 | Western University | 115 | 115-120 | Business & economics are strong. |
| #=465 | Concordia University | 110 | 115 | Creative programs |
| #=546 | University of Windsor | 110 | 115 | Engineering & auto industry ties. |
| #=308 | Simon Fraser University | 115 | 120 | Co-op programs for work experience. |
| #=358 | University of Victoria | 115 | 120 | Environmental studies focus. |
| #=94 | University of Alberta | 115 | 125 | Sub-scores 100; oil/energy research. |
| #=504 | University of Guelph | 110 | 120 | |
| #=643 | University of Manitoba | 115 | 120 | Agriculture/Indigenous studies. |
| #=378 | University of Saskatchewan | 115 | 120 | Affordable tuition; agribusiness. |
| #=622 | University of New Brunswick | 110 | 115 | Engineering & Forestry. |
Duolingo Accepted Colleges in Canada in 2026
Apart from the top universities tabulated above, there are many community colleges in Canada that accept DET. Some of these are:
Popular Programs and Costs for Indian Students
Canadian universities offer diverse programs. Popular ones for Indians (STEM, business) at DET-accepting universities:
- Computer Science, Engineering: Waterloo, UBC, Toronto
- Business, MBA: McGill, York, Alberta
- Data Science, Health: McMaster, Calgary
- Diplomas (Pathway): Humber College, Seneca
Total Estimated Annual Costs for Indians:
- Tuition: CAD 20,000-60,000 (INR 12–36 lakhs).
- Living: CAD 15,000 (INR 9 lakhs; higher in Toronto, Vancouver).
- Scholarships: Many universities (e.g., Toronto's Lester B. Pearson) cover 50-100% for high achievers.
Must Read
Visa Process for Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada
Choosing the DET instead of IELTS does not affect your Canadian study permit application, as long as your university accepts your score and grants you admission. Since the restrictive SDS stream has been discontinued, using the DET does not reduce your chances of visa approval.
- SDS stream has been discontinued. The Student Direct Stream (SDS), which previously required IELTS for visa processing, has been permanently removed.
- All applicants now use the regular study permit process. Under this system, the visa assessment relies on the university’s decision to confirm your English proficiency.
- Your Letter of Acceptance (LOA) is the primary requirement. If a designated learning institution (DLI) accepts your Duolingo score and issues an LOA, this is generally considered sufficient proof of language ability for the study permit application.
Must Read: Canada Tightens Student Visa Rules
Why Take the Duolingo English Test?
- Cost-Effective: Cheaper than IELTS and TOEFL (INR 18,000).
- Flexible: Unlimited retakes (up to 3 per 30 days), valid for 2 years.
- Accessibility: No test center needed; ideal if you're in a remote area like rural India.
- Score Range: 10-160 overall (sub-scores in Literacy, Comprehension, Conversation, Production). A score of 115-125 is competitive for top universities (equivalent to IELTS 6.5-7.0).
- Preparation Tips: Use free Duolingo practice tests, focus on adaptive speaking and writing. Aim for balanced sub-scores (e.g., no section below 100 for most universities).
| Related Articles | ||
|---|---|---|
| Duolingo English Test Booking | Duolingo English Test Fees | Duolingo Eligibility |
DET vs IELTS vs TOEFL Score Comparison
Many universities do not explicitly mention Duolingo test score requirements, but they accept the same. Use the table below to convert IELTS or TOEFL requirements to DET score.
| Duolingo Score | TOEFL Equivalent | IELTS Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| 100 | 65-69 | 5.5 |
| 105 | 70-75 | 6 |
| 110 | 76-81 | 6 |
| 115 | 82-86 | 6 |
| 120 | 87-92 | 6.5 |
| 125 | 93-97 | 6.5 |
| 130 | 98-103 | 7 |
| 135 | 104-108 | 7 |
| 140 | 109-112 | 7.5 |
| 145 | 113-116 | 7.5 |
| 150 | 117-118 | 8 |
| 155 | 119 | 8 |
| 160 | 120 | 8.5-9 |
In 2026, the Duolingo English Test makes it easier for Indian students to apply to Canadian universities. Over 400 colleges and universities accept DET scores, and the visa process is now simpler. Achieving the required score and getting an LOA from a recognised institution are the main steps to start studying in Canada.
FAQs
Ques. Can I use DET scores for multiple Canadian university applications?
Ans. Yes, you can send your DET score to multiple universities. Each institution will receive an official report directly from Duolingo.
Ques. Is a 110 Duolingo score accepted in Canada?
Ans. Yes, a score of 110 is accepted by many public colleges and mid-tier Duolingo accepted universities in Canada, including Algoma University and Thompson Rivers University.
Ques. Is 95 Duolingo accepted in Canada?
Ans. A DET score of 95 may be accepted in Canada by some community colleges like Humber College, Mohawk College and others. Top universities require a minimum score of 110-120.
Ques. Can DET scores be used for scholarship applications in Canada?
Ans. Yes, many universities accept DET scores for merit-based scholarships, though other academic criteria are also considered.
Ques. Is the Duolingo test harder than IELTS or TOEFL?
Ans. Not necessarily. DET is shorter, fully online, and adaptive, making it easier for students comfortable with computers and online tests.
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