English Language Proficiency Update: Duolingo English Test (DET)
Effective for Fall 2026 Admissions Cycle
Duolingo English Test Now Accepted for English Language Proficiency
Beginning with the Fall 2026 admission cycle, UC San Diego will accept the Duolingo English Test (DET) as one of the approved options for meeting the English language proficiency requirement for graduate admission. This is in addition to the existing TOEFL and IELTS options. You may find the approved proposal here.
Do departments need to take any action?
If your program lists English language testing requirements/options on its website, please update your website to include DET as an accepted English language proficiency test option starting with Fall 2026 applicants.
Are departments required to accept the DET?
Yes, departments are required to accept the DET. Similar to other approved ELP exams, departments may set higher minimum score requirements if they choose.
Can applicants submit DET scores instead of TOEFL or IELTS?
Yes. International applicants may submit DET scores in place of TOEFL or IELTS to meet the English language proficiency requirement for graduate admission.
What is the minimum DET score required for graduate admission at UC San Diego?
Minimum Total Score: 120 (out of 160)
How long are DET scores valid?
Score Validity: Two years from the date of the exam.
Where can departments find exam score equivalency information?
Please use the concordance tables below to compare DET scores to TOEFL and IELTS scores. You may also find this information in the approved proposal linked at the top of this page.
For additional information on scoring/sub scores please visit Duolingo’s Scoring page here.