IELTS vs Duolingo for European Universities (2026)

In Italy, the pattern was similar. Politecnico di Milano and Sapienza University of Rome did not appear in Duolingo’s directory at all. The one confirmed match was SDA Bocconi’s graduate management programmes, and even that listing carries an asterisk meaning some applicants may still need to submit additional proof.

What German public universities actually accept instead

Across the German public universities that publish a clear non-IELTS alternative, the pattern is consistent: they accept PTE Academic, Cambridge English exams (First, Advanced, Proficiency), and — most usefully if you already have an English-medium degree — an official letter from your previous university confirming your bachelor’s was taught in English. This “medium of instruction” letter is the one Pakistani applicants use most often, since many Pakistani bachelor’s programs are taught in English but the certificate itself does not always say so explicitly — you may need to request a separate confirmation letter from your registrar.