If you’re an international student aspiring to study in Canada, you’ve likely heard of the Duolingo English Test as a convenient and accessible way to prove your English language proficiency.

This comprehensive guide will provide you with an up-to-date list of Duolingo-accepted universities and colleges in Canada as of October 29, 2023.

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How many universities accept Duolingo in Canada?

In the ever-expanding world of education, the significance of language proficiency tests cannot be overstated.

For international students aspiring to study in Canada, demonstrating English proficiency is a crucial step in the admissions process.

One of the increasingly popular tests for this purpose is the Duolingo English Test. As of October 29, 2023, nearly 150 universities across Canada recognize and accept the Duolingo English Test as a valid measure of English language proficiency.

In this post, I will go into the landscape of Duolingo English Test acceptance in Canadian universities, highlighting its significance, benefits, and the institutions that acknowledge it as a reliable assessment tool.

The Rise of the Duolingo English Test

The Duolingo English Test, often abbreviated as DET, has gained significant traction as an alternative to traditional English language proficiency tests like TOEFL and IELTS.

Its rise in popularity can be attributed to several key factors, including accessibility, convenience, and accuracy.

Accessibility and Convenience

One of the primary advantages of the Duolingo English Test is its accessibility. It is an online test that can be taken from the comfort of one’s home, eliminating the need for test centers and travel expenses.

Test takers can schedule the test at their convenience, making it a practical choice for candidates from around the world.

Accurate Assessment

The DET is designed to assess a candidate’s ability to understand and communicate effectively in English. It evaluates listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills, providing a comprehensive overview of an applicant’s language proficiency.

Its adaptive format tailors the difficulty of the questions to the test taker’s abilities, ensuring accurate results.

Advantages of Choosing the Duolingo English Test

When considering language proficiency tests for studying in Canada, it’s essential to understand the advantages of opting for the Duolingo English Test.

1. Cost-Effective

Compared to some of the other standardized English tests, the Duolingo English Test is cost-effective. It offers an affordable alternative for students who are concerned about the financial aspects of their education.

2. Quick Results

The DET provides rapid results, typically within 48 hours. This quick turnaround time can be a significant advantage for students who are applying to universities with approaching deadlines.

3. Widely Accepted

As of October 29, 2023, close to 150 universities in Canada have recognized the Duolingo English Test as an acceptable proof of English proficiency. This wide acceptance opens up numerous opportunities for international students.

Canadian Universities Accepting the Duolingo English Test

Here is a list of Canadian universities that currently accept the Duolingo English Test as a valid measure of English language proficiency:

1. University of Toronto: Renowned for its diverse and inclusive campus, the University of Toronto acknowledges the DET for admission purposes.
2. University of British Columbia: As one of Canada’s top universities, UBC has embraced the Duolingo English Test as part of its admission requirements.
3. McGill University: Situated in Montreal, McGill University accepts the DET, attracting students from around the world.
4. University of Alberta: The University of Alberta in Edmonton is among the Canadian institutions that recognize the value of the DET in assessing English language skills.
5. University of Waterloo: Known for its strong co-op programs, the University of Waterloo has opened its doors to DET takers.
6. University of Calgary: The University of Calgary’s recognition of the Duolingo English Test provides additional options for prospective students.
7. Queen’s University: Located in Kingston, Ontario, Queen’s University is among the institutions that accept the DET for admissions.
8. Simon Fraser University: SFU in British Columbia includes the Duolingo English Test in its list of approved English proficiency assessments.
9. University of Ottawa: The bilingual University of Ottawa acknowledges the DET for its English language requirements.
10. Dalhousie University: This Halifax-based institution is part of the growing list of Canadian universities that accept the Duolingo English Test.

Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and it is advisable to verify the English language proficiency requirements of your chosen university.

The Importance of the Duolingo English Test

Before diving into the list, let’s understand why the Duolingo English Test is gaining popularity among students worldwide.

It’s a convenient and cost-effective way to demonstrate your English language skills, making it easier for international students to meet admission requirements at Canadian institutions.

The Complete List of Duolingo Accepted Universities in Canada

1. Algoma University

Located in Sault Ste. Marie, Algoma University is known for its welcoming and supportive community.

2. Brock University

Brock University, situated in St. Catharines, Ontario, offers a wide range of programs for students.

3. Cape Breton University

Nestled on Cape Breton Island, this university provides a unique Canadian east coast experience.

4. Carleton University

Carleton University, situated in Ottawa, is renowned for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.

5. Concordia University

Concordia, located in Montreal, Quebec, is known for its multicultural environment and strong academic offerings.

6. Dalhousie University

Dalhousie, based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, offers diverse programs and a picturesque coastal setting.

7. Durham College

Situated in Oshawa, Ontario, Durham College is a popular choice for technical and vocational education.

8. Fleming College

Fleming College in Peterborough, Ontario, is recognized for its practical and career-oriented programs.

9. Humber College

Humber College, located in Toronto, is celebrated for its professional and technical courses.

10. Lakehead University

Lakehead University, with campuses in Thunder Bay and Orillia, is known for its strong research programs.

11. Langara College

Langara College, located in Vancouver, offers a diverse range of courses in a beautiful city.

12. Loyalist College

Loyalist College, situated in Belleville, Ontario, is a preferred choice for applied arts and technology programs.

13. McGill University

Based in Montreal, Quebec, McGill University is globally renowned for its research and academic excellence.

14. McMaster University

Hamilton’s McMaster University is known for its strong health sciences and engineering programs.

15. Memorial University of Newfoundland

Memorial University in St. John’s, Newfoundland, offers a unique maritime experience.

16. Mount Royal University

Based in Calgary, Alberta, Mount Royal University offers a wide range of undergraduate programs.

17. Nipissing University

Nipissing University in North Bay, Ontario, is celebrated for its smaller class sizes and personalized education.

18. NorQuest College

NorQuest College, situated in Edmonton, Alberta, is a top choice for practical and technical education.

19. Ontario Tech University

Located in Oshawa, Ontario Tech University is known for its strong focus on technology and innovation.

20. Queen’s University

Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, offers a well-rounded education and a vibrant campus.

21. Ryerson University

Ryerson University, located in the heart of Toronto, is renowned for its strong business and media programs.

22. Saint Mary’s University

Located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Saint Mary’s University is celebrated for its supportive community and quality education.

23. Seneca College

Seneca College, based in Toronto, is a top choice for international students seeking practical education.

24. Simon Fraser University

Simon Fraser University, located in Burnaby, British Columbia, offers strong academic programs and a scenic campus.

25. Trent University

Trent University, situated in Peterborough, Ontario, provides a liberal arts education in a picturesque setting.

26. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta in Edmonton is known for its research excellence and diverse academic programs.

27. University of British Columbia

UBC, situated in Vancouver, is consistently ranked among the top universities globally.

28. University of Calgary

The University of Calgary, located in Alberta, offers a wide range of undergraduate programs.

29. University of Guelph

Based in Guelph, Ontario, this university is celebrated for its agricultural and veterinary programs.

30. University of Manitoba

The University of Manitoba in Winnipeg is known for its strong research and academic excellence.

31. University of Montreal

The University of Montreal, situated in Quebec, offers a vibrant and diverse learning environment.

32. University of New Brunswick

Located in Fredericton, New Brunswick, this university provides a well-rounded education.

33. University of Ottawa

The University of Ottawa in Ontario is known for its bilingual education and strong programs.

34. University of Regina

Based in Regina, Saskatchewan, this university offers diverse academic programs and a supportive community.

35. University of Saskatchewan

The University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon is renowned for its research and practical programs.

36. University of Toronto

The University of Toronto is a globally recognized institution located in the heart of the vibrant city.

37. University of Victoria

Situated on Vancouver Island, the University of Victoria offers a stunning campus and strong academic programs.

38. University of Waterloo

Waterloo, Ontario, is home to the University of Waterloo, known for its innovation and technical programs.

39. Western University

Located in London, Ontario, Western University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

40. York University

York University in Toronto is celebrated for its diverse student body and strong academic offerings.

Duolingo-Accepted Colleges

Now, let’s take a look at colleges in Canada that accept the Duolingo English Test.

1. Algonquin College

Algonquin College, based in Ottawa, is known for its practical and career-focused programs.

2. Assiniboine Community College

Situated in Brandon, Manitoba, Assiniboine Community College offers a range of technical and vocational courses.

3. Aurora College

Aurora College in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, is celebrated for its northern-focused education.

4. Bow Valley College

Bow Valley College, located in Calgary, Alberta, offers practical and technical education.

5. Cambrian College

Cambrian College in Sudbury, Ontario, is known for its strong applied arts and technology programs.

6. Centennial College

Centennial College, based in Toronto, is a preferred choice for international students seeking practical education.

7. Collège Boréal

Collège Boréal, situated in Sudbury, Ontario, offers French-language education and a diverse range of programs.

8. Collège de Rosemont

Located in Montreal, Quebec, Collège de Rosemont provides a supportive Francophone learning environment.

9. Collège Montmorency

Collège Montmorency in Laval, Quebec, offers a wide range of French-language programs.

10. Conestoga College

Conestoga College, based in Kitchener, Ontario, is known for its practical and technical education.

11. Fanshawe College

Fanshawe College, located in London, Ontario, is celebrated for its applied arts and technology programs.

12. George Brown College

George Brown College in Toronto is renowned for its strong health sciences and business programs.

13. Georgian College

Georgian College, situated in Barrie, Ontario, offers practical and vocational education.

14. Holland College

Holland College in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, offers diverse programs with a maritime touch.

15. Humber College

Humber College’s Lakeshore campus, located in Toronto, is known for its applied arts and technology programs.

16. Lethbridge College

Lethbridge College, based in Alberta, is a top choice for practical and vocational education.

17. Loyalist College

Loyalist College in Belleville, Ontario, offers applied arts and technology programs.

18. Mohawk College

Situated in Hamilton, Ontario, Mohawk College is celebrated for its practical education and community involvement.

19. Mount Royal University

Mount Royal University’s aviation program in Calgary, Alberta, is recognized for its technical education.

20. Niagara College

Niagara College, located in Welland, Ontario, offers practical and vocational programs in a beautiful region.

21. NorQuest College

NorQuest College in Edmonton, Alberta, is known for its practical and technical education.

22. Nova Scotia Community College

Nova Scotia Community College, with multiple campuses across the province, offers a diverse range of programs.

23. Olds College

Olds College in Alberta is known for its strong agriculture and horticulture programs.

24. Red River College

Red River College in Winnipeg, Manitoba, offers practical and vocational education.

25. Sault College

Sault College in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, is celebrated for its applied arts and technology programs.

26. Seneca College

Seneca College, based in Toronto, is a top choice for international students seeking practical education.

27. Sheridan College

Sheridan College, located in Oakville, Ontario, offers strong arts and technology programs.

28. St. Clair College

St. Clair College, based in Windsor, Ontario, provides practical and vocational education.

29. St. Lawrence College

St. Lawrence College in Kingston, Ontario, offers applied arts and technology programs.

30. Thompson Rivers University

Thompson Rivers University, located in Kamloops, British Columbia, offers a wide range of programs in a scenic setting.

31. Vancouver Island University

Vancouver Island University, based in Nanaimo, British Columbia, offers a diverse range of programs on Vancouver Island.

Can I apply for Canada visa with Duolingo?

In today’s globalized world, Canada has become an attractive destination for students, workers, and visitors from around the globe.

Whether you’re looking to pursue your education, explore career opportunities, or simply experience the beauty of the Great White North, one of the essential factors to consider is your proficiency in the English language.

To meet this requirement, many individuals wonder if they can apply for a Canada visa with Duolingo as proof of their English language skills.

In this section, I’ll look into the specifics and provide you with all the information you need to navigate the Canadian visa application process successfully.

The Importance of English Proficiency

Before we dive into the details, it’s crucial to understand why English language proficiency is essential when applying for a Canadian visa.

English is one of Canada’s two official languages, alongside French, and being proficient in English is often a prerequisite for successful integration into Canadian society, both academically and professionally.

As such, the Canadian government has established certain standards for English language proficiency, and it’s essential to meet these requirements to ensure your visa application is approved.

The Duolingo English Test

Duolingo, a popular language learning platform, has introduced its own English language proficiency test, the Duolingo English Test. This test offers a modern and accessible way to evaluate your English language skills.

However, the question remains: Can you use the Duolingo English Test as proof of your language proficiency when applying for a Canada visa?

The answer is both yes and no, depending on the type of visa you’re seeking.

Student Visa Applications

If you’re considering pursuing your education in Canada, you’ll likely be interested in applying for a student visa.

The good news is that Duolingo is accepted as proof of English language proficiency for student visa applications.

However, there’s a catch. Duolingo scores are only accepted for students who are applying to designated learning institutions (DLIs) that have chosen to accept the Duolingo English Test as a valid proof of language proficiency.

To find out if your intended DLI accepts the Duolingo English Test, you can refer to the official list of Duolingo-accepting DLIs available on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

It’s essential to verify this information before proceeding with your application to avoid any complications.

Other Visa Types

While Duolingo is a viable option for student visa applicants, it’s not currently accepted as proof of English language proficiency for other types of visas.

This includes work permits, visitor visas, and permanent residency applications.

For these visa categories, you will need to explore alternative methods of demonstrating your English language proficiency.

Using Duolingo for Your Student Visa Application

If you are applying for a student visa and your chosen DLI accepts the Duolingo English Test, here’s how to go about it:

1. Prepare for the Duolingo English Test: Before you can use Duolingo as proof of English proficiency, you’ll need to take the Duolingo English Test. This test can be taken online, and you can receive your results within hours, making it a convenient option for applicants.
2. Check the Minimum Score Requirement: Each DLI may have its own minimum score requirement for the Duolingo English Test. Ensure that you meet or exceed the minimum score set by your chosen DLI.
3. Include Duolingo Scores in Your Application: When applying for your student visa, make sure to include your Duolingo score report as part of your application. This report will serve as evidence of your English language proficiency.
4. Verify Specific DLI Requirements: Different DLIs may have additional requirements or specific application procedures. It’s essential to research and comply with the DLI’s guidelines to increase your chances of a successful application.

Considerations and Alternatives

While the Duolingo English Test offers a convenient way to prove your English language skills, it’s important to note that it’s relatively new and not as widely accepted as other established English language proficiency tests, such as the IELTS and TOEFL.

Therefore, if you’re unsure whether Duolingo is accepted for the type of visa you’re applying for, it’s advisable to contact the IRCC or consult with a licensed immigration consultant who can provide expert guidance based on your specific situation.

Is Duolingo harder than IELTS?

When it comes to proving your English language proficiency, two popular choices stand out: the Duolingo English Test and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

But which one is the right fit for you? In this section, I’ll explore the key differences and similarities between these tests, helping you make an informed decision.

Here is a table that compares the two tests:

Feature	Duolingo English Test	IELTS
Test format	Adaptive computer-based test	Paper-based or computer-based test
Test duration	45 minutes	2 hours and 45 minutes
Test sections	Reading, writing, listening, speaking	Reading, writing, listening, speaking
Test difficulty	Considered to be easier	Considered to be more difficult
Test acceptance	Accepted by over 1,500 universities worldwide, including many in Canada and the US	Accepted by over 10,000 universities worldwide

Test Format

Duolingo English Test

The Duolingo English Test is an adaptive computer-based test. It’s designed to be convenient and accessible, making it a favorite among test-takers worldwide.

IELTS

IELTS, on the other hand, offers both paper-based and computer-based test options, providing flexibility for test-takers. You can choose the format that suits you best.

Test Duration

Duolingo English Test

This test typically lasts for 45 minutes, making it a swift option for those looking for a quick assessment of their English skills.

IELTS

In contrast, the IELTS examination is more time-consuming, with a duration of 2 hours and 45 minutes. This extended period allows for a more in-depth evaluation.

Test Sections

Duolingo English Test

The Duolingo English Test covers four essential skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It focuses on foundational language abilities.

IELTS

IELTS, too, assesses reading, writing, listening, and speaking. However, it is known for its rigorous evaluation of these skills, demanding a deeper understanding of the English language.

Test Difficulty

Duolingo English Test

Duolingo is generally considered to be easier compared to IELTS. It emphasizes basic language skills such as grammar and vocabulary, making it accessible for a wider audience.

IELTS

IELTS is often viewed as more challenging due to its comprehensive evaluation. It not only tests language skills but also measures your ability to use English effectively in real-life situations.

Test Acceptance

Duolingo English Test

The Duolingo English Test is recognized by over 1,500 universities worldwide, including many prestigious institutions in Canada and the United States. It is gaining acceptance and popularity.

IELTS

IELTS boasts acceptance by over 10,000 universities worldwide. It is widely recognized and trusted by academic institutions and employers across the globe.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Duolingo English Test has made it easier for international students to apply to Canadian universities and colleges.

This list, accurate as of October 29, 2023, provides you with a comprehensive guide to institutions in Canada that accept the Duolingo English Test. Keep in mind that admission requirements may vary, so always double-check with your chosen institution for the most up-to-date information.

Studying in Canada has never been more accessible, and these institutions are waiting to welcome students from all over the world.

Good luck with your academic journey in the Great White North!