The Duolingo English Test (DET) is a modern, computer-based exam designed to evaluate speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills. Unlike traditional exams, Duolingo is fully online, affordable, and can be taken from the comfort of your home using just a computer and webcam. With the growing popularity of Duolingo, accepted universities in Australia offer students more opportunities than ever to pursue quality education. Affordable fees, flexible test-taking, and widespread recognition make Duolingo a preferred choice for students aiming to study in Australia in 2025.
Why Choose Duolingo for Studying in Australia?
Fast Turnaround
Scores are available within 48 hours, enabling students to apply for admissions and scholarships without delays.
High Flexibility
The test is available online 24/7, allowing students to take it anytime, anywhere, without the need for physical test centres.
Universally Growing Acceptance
Many Australian universities now accept Duolingo for admissions. It is particularly useful during tight application timelines or for students seeking a cost-effective option compared to IELTS or TOEFL.
Fair and Objective Scoring
The exam uses AI-driven algorithms for scoring, ensuring fairness, consistency, and no human bias in evaluating your performance.
Cost-Effective
Duolingo costs USD 59 (approx. INR 4,800), which is much cheaper than IELTS or PTE. Students can also send results to unlimited universities free of charge.
Duolingo Score Requirements in Australia
|
Level / Purpose |
Typical Duolingo Score Requirement |
Notes |
|
Undergraduate (UG) |
90 – 105 |
Some courses require higher (110+ for competitive fields). |
|
Postgraduate (PG) |
105 – 120 |
Business, Law, and Medicine often require higher scores. |
|
Diploma/Pathway Courses |
85 – 95 |
Accepted by many regional and pathway universities. |
|
Student Visa |
Not accepted by the Department of Home Affairs for visa purposes yet |
DET is for university admission only; students still need IELTS/PTE for visa filing. |
Tier 1: Top-Ranked Universities Accepting Duolingo in Australia
University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne, one of the world's top 50 universities, accepts Duolingo scores for admission in select programs. Known for research and innovation, it attracts high-achieving international students and offers strong global employability.
- Duration: UG (3–4 years), PG (1.5–2 years)
- Popular Courses: Engineering, Business, Law, Data Science
- Duolingo Requirement: ~115–120
-
Average Fees: AUD 45,000–55,000 per year
University of Sydney
As Australia’s oldest university, Sydney has strong global ties and world-class facilities. It accepts Duolingo in selected courses, providing students with flexibility while maintaining high admission standards.
- Duration: UG (3–4 years), PG (1–2 years), Medicine (5–6 years)
- Popular Courses: Medicine, Architecture, Computer Science, Business
- Duolingo Requirement: ~115+
-
Average Fees: AUD 40,000–50,000 per year
UNSW Sydney
UNSW is highly ranked for business and engineering, with a focus on industry-driven education. Accepting Duolingo adds an affordable, accessible option for international applicants.
- Duration: UG (3–4 years), PG (1.5–2 years)
- Popular Courses: Business, Law, Engineering, IT
- Duolingo Requirement: ~115–120
-
Average Fees: AUD 42,000–50,000 per year
Tier 2: Mid-Tier Public Universities
Macquarie University
Macquarie is career-oriented with strong ties to industries. Duolingo acceptance makes it an accessible option for international students aiming for affordable yet high-quality education.
- Duration: UG (3 years), PG (1–2 years)
- Popular Courses: Business Analytics, Psychology, IT
- Duolingo Requirement: ~100–110
- Average Fees: AUD 32,000–40,000 per year
University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
UTS is known for its practical, industry-focused programs and modern facilities. Accepting Duolingo widens access for students applying remotely.
- Duration: UG (3 years), PG (1.5–2 years)
- Popular Courses: Design, Business, IT, Engineering
- Duolingo Requirement: ~110+
- Average Fees: AUD 35,000–42,000 per year
Deakin University
Deakin is student-focused, offering flexible online learning and affordable tuition. Its recognition of Duolingo reflects its inclusive approach to admissions.
- Duration: UG (3 years), PG (1–2 years)
- Popular Courses: Sports Science, Health Sciences, Business
- Duolingo Requirement: ~100–105
- Average Fees: AUD 30,000–38,000 per year
Tier 3: Regional & Pathway Universities
Griffith University
Griffith is popular for its affordable fees and international student support. Accepting Duolingo provides a low-cost entry to Australian education.
- Duration: UG (3 years), PG (1–2 years)
- Popular Courses: Tourism, Hospitality, Business, Environmental Studies
- Duolingo Requirement: ~95–105
- Average Fees: AUD 28,000–35,000 per year
Victoria University (VU)
VU’s block model and affordability make it attractive. Duolingo acceptance streamlines the admission process, making it faster and more accessible.
- Duration: UG (3 years), PG (1–2 years)
- Popular Courses: Sports Science, Vocational Studies, Business
- Duolingo Requirement: ~90–100
- Average Fees: AUD 25,000–32,000 per year
Charles Darwin University (CDU)
CDU offers small class sizes, affordable tuition, and regional migration benefits. Accepting Duolingo strengthens its global reach.
- Duration: UG (3 years), PG (1–2 years)
- Popular Courses: Nursing, Education, Environmental Sciences
- Duolingo Requirement: ~90–95
-
Average Fees: AUD 25,000–30,000 per year
University of Southern Queensland (USQ)
USQ is renowned for online learning and low-cost programs. Duolingo acceptance makes it a budget-friendly option for global applicants.
- Duration: UG (3 years), PG (1–2 years)
- Popular Courses: Business, Engineering, IT, Education
- Duolingo Requirement: ~95–100
- Average Fees: AUD 26,000–32,000 per year
Scholarships & Financial Aid for Duolingo Test Takers in Australia
Studying in Australia can be expensive, with tuition fees ranging from AUD 25,000 to 55,000 per year, depending on the university and course. Scholarships and financial aid help reduce the financial burden and make studying abroad more accessible. The good news is that Duolingo test takers are equally eligible for most of the scholarships available to international students.
1. University-Specific Scholarships
Top universities in Australia offer merit-based and need-based scholarships. A strong Duolingo score (110+) alongside good academics enhances your chances.
- University of Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship – Provides partial or full tuition fee waivers for outstanding UG students.
- Sydney Scholars Awards & Sydney Global Scholarships – Offered to UG and PG students with strong academic and extracurricular profiles.
- Monash International Merit Scholarship – Valued at up to AUD 10,000 annually, renewable for multiple years.
- ANU Chancellor’s International Scholarship – Discounts up to 50% of tuition fees for high-achieving international students.
2. Government-Funded Scholarships
The Australian Government funds several prestigious scholarships for international students:
- Australia Awards Scholarship (AAS) – Fully funded, covering tuition, living allowance, travel, and health insurance. Aimed at students from developing countries.
- Destination Australia Scholarships – Encourages students to study in regional universities; provides AUD 15,000 annually per student.
- Research Training Program (RTP) – For postgraduate research students (Master’s/PhD). Offers tuition fee waivers and living stipends.
3. External & Private Scholarships
In addition to universities and the government, several private foundations support international students:
- Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan – Supports students from Commonwealth countries.
- Endeavour Leadership Program – Rewards high-performing international students in leadership and research.
- Private Foundations (like Tata Trusts in India) – Provide partial financial aid to Indian students heading to Australia.
4. Tips to Maximise Your Scholarship Chances
- Aim higher than the minimum score – Even if a course requires 95, scoring 115+ on Duolingo gives you an edge.
- Apply early – Scholarship deadlines are usually 3–6 months before admission deadlines.
- Show a strong overall profile – Alongside Duolingo, highlight academics, SOPs, extracurriculars, and community work.
- Target regional universities – They often provide additional scholarships to attract international students.
- Maintain academic consistency – Many scholarships are renewable annually if you meet GPA requirements.
Career Opportunities After Studying in Australia
A degree from a Duolingo-accepted university in Australia opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities. Australia boasts a robust job market, high graduate employability, and one of the best post-study work policies globally.
1. Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485)
- Duration: 2–4 years, depending on your qualification level and city of study (longer if you study in a regional university).
- Benefit: Allows international students to gain valuable work experience in Australia after graduation.
- Regional Extension: Students graduating from regional universities may get 1–2 additional years of work rights, making Tier 2 and Tier 3 institutions attractive for long-term plans.
2. High-Demand Career Fields
Graduates from Australian universities are especially sought after in industries listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL):
- Information Technology (IT & Computer Science) – Roles in cybersecurity, AI, cloud computing, and software development.
- Engineering – Civil, mechanical, electrical, and mining engineers are in strong demand due to infrastructure growth.
- Healthcare & Nursing – Nurses, aged-care specialists, and allied health professionals are urgently required.
- Business & Finance – Accounting, consulting, and management roles are highly rewarding in Sydney and Melbourne.
- Education – Teaching professionals are valued, particularly in regional Australia.
- Agriculture & Environmental Sciences – Career paths in sustainability, agribusiness, and climate research are expanding.
3. Average Salary Expectations
|
Field |
Average Salary (AUD per year) |
Notes |
|
IT & Computer Science |
70,000 – 90,000 |
Strong demand in Sydney & Melbourne |
|
Engineering |
75,000 – 95,000 |
Civil, Mechanical, and Mining engineers are highly sought |
|
Healthcare & Nursing |
65,000 – 85,000 |
Nurses & doctors in critical demand |
|
Business & Finance |
60,000 – 80,000 |
Banking, consulting, and accounting jobs are available |
|
Education |
55,000 – 70,000 |
Teaching opportunities, especially in regional areas |
|
Agriculture & Environment |
55,000 – 75,000 |
Growing field due to sustainability focus |
4. Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)
- A degree in a high-demand field plus Australian work experience adds significant points for PR.
- Studying in a regional university provides extra PR benefits and priority migration pathways.
- Graduates in IT, healthcare, and engineering often find the smoothest route to PR.
5. Employability Support by Universities
Australian universities provide extensive career services to help international students succeed:
- Career Centres: Organise workshops, job fairs, and one-to-one career counselling.
- Internship & Placement Programs: Many universities partner with industries to provide real-world work experience.
- Alumni Networks: Strong alumni connections support global career opportunities and mentoring.
Conclusion
The Duolingo English Test (DET) is quickly becoming one of the most convenient and affordable pathways for international students aiming to study in Australia. With its at-home test format, quick results, and growing recognition by top universities, Duolingo is levelling the playing field for students who want flexibility without compromising credibility.
By choosing from the wide range of Duolingo accepted universities in Australia, students can align their academic ambitions with their budget, preferred location, and career goals.
