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University of San Diego English Requirements

QS #1401+

California, United States

The University of San Diego (USD) is a private Roman Catholic research university located in San Diego, California. It offers dozens of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across schools including the College of Arts and Sciences, Knauss School of Business, Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering, School of Leadership and Education Sciences, School of Law, Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science, and Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies. USD is known for its commitment to social justice, global education, and personalized learning.

Verified on the university's admissions pages · Jul 2026

Quick answer

University of San Diego accepts Duolingo English Test, IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, and LanguageCert Academic for international admission. Undergraduate applicants typically need Duolingo English Test 120, TOEFL iBT 4.5 (1–6), and IELTS Academic 6.5.

Undergraduate requirements

The university-wide standard for first-year international applicants.

Duolingo English Test120
TOEFL iBT4.51–686+0–120
TOEFL iBT800–12041–6
IELTS Academic6.5
PTE AcademicUnknown
Cambridge EnglishUnknown
LanguageCert Academic70

Sources: sandiego.edu/admission-and-aid/undergraduate/…

Graduate requirements

The university-wide standard for graduate and postgraduate international applicants. Individual programs may require higher scores.

Duolingo English Test120
TOEFL iBT4.51–686+0–120
TOEFL iBT830–12041–6
IELTS Academic7
PTE AcademicUnknown
Cambridge EnglishUnknown

Sources: sandiego.edu/admission-and-aid/graduate/apply…

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Frequently asked questions

Does University of San Diego accept the Duolingo English Test?+

Yes. University of San Diego accepts the Duolingo English Test. Undergraduate applicants need a minimum of 120; graduate minimums are set by each program.

What TOEFL iBT score do I need for University of San Diego?+

Undergraduate admission to University of San Diego requires TOEFL iBT 4.5 (1–6) or higher. Graduate programs may require more, depending on the program.

What IELTS Academic score do I need for University of San Diego?+

Undergraduate admission to University of San Diego requires IELTS Academic 6.5 or higher. Graduate programs may require more, depending on the program.

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Requirements are read from University of San Diego's own admissions pages and refreshed regularly. Admission requirements change between cycles. Always confirm on the university's admissions page before applying.