Can You Use the Duolingo English Test to Study in Switzerland?

Hi, this is Lance from DET Study 👋

When people think of Switzerland, they often imagine precision watches, breathtaking mountains, and world-class chocolate. But the country is just as famous for its universities and specialized schools, which consistently rank among the best in Europe. For international students, Switzerland offers not only outstanding academic programs but also the chance to study in one of the world’s most multilingual and innovative environments.

Here’s some good news: many Swiss universities now recognize the Duolingo English Test (DET) as proof of English proficiency. That means you can apply to leading institutions without the hassle of traveling to a test center or waiting weeks for results.

🏫 Universities in Switzerland that Accept the DET

Several of Switzerland’s top schools across business, hospitality, and applied sciences accept DET scores. Here are some of the standout institutions:

• University of St. Gallen (HSG) – Frequently ranked as one of Europe’s best business schools, St. Gallen offers programs in business, economics, and international affairs, with a strong global reputation.
• École Hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL) – Known worldwide for hospitality management, EHL combines Swiss tradition with modern industry practices, making it the go-to choice for future leaders in hotels and tourism.
• Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts – A forward-looking school with programs in business, engineering, music, and design, balancing academic excellence with real-world application.
• Business School Lausanne (BSL) – A smaller but highly respected school that focuses on entrepreneurship, sustainability, and innovative approaches to business education.
• Geneva Business School – Offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees entirely in English, with strong international diversity and personalized teaching.
• BHMS – Business & Hotel Management School, Lucerne – Specializes in hospitality and business education, pairing academic studies with internships to give students hands-on career experience.

These are just a handful of options—over 6,000 programs around the world accept the DET. Switzerland’s inclusion on that list gives students a chance to pursue competitive programs without barriers.

🌍 Why the Duolingo English Test Makes Sense for Switzerland

For students aiming to study abroad, time and cost are often two of the biggest challenges. The DET helps solve both:

• Take it from anywhere – You only need a computer, a quiet room, and an internet connection.
• Fast results – Your scores are delivered in just 48 hours.
• Affordable – At a fraction of the cost of other exams, it’s accessible to more students worldwide.
• Globally recognized – With thousands of institutions already accepting it, the DET is quickly becoming one of the most trusted alternatives to IELTS or TOEFL.

In short, if you’re applying to Swiss schools, the Duolingo English Test can save you both money and stress—while still giving you the credibility you need for admissions.

✍️ Tips for the DET Writing (Production) Section

One of the most important parts of the test is the Production section, where you demonstrate your ability to express ideas in clear, written English. Here are some practical strategies:

1. Organize Your Thoughts First
   Spend half a minute outlining your response. Even a quick bullet list in your mind helps ensure your answer has structure.
2. Use Linking Words Naturally
   Phrases like in contrast, as a result, for instance, and on the other hand will make your writing sound fluent and cohesive.
3. Keep It Focused
   Answer the question directly and provide at least two supporting ideas or examples. Avoid wandering off-topic.
4. Write in Complete Sentences
   Short, clear sentences are better than overly complex ones that risk grammar mistakes.
5. Proofread in the Last Seconds
   Use the remaining time to catch common errors—verb tense consistency, plural forms, and spelling.

Sample Answer (Short):
I would prefer studying abroad because it exposes me to new perspectives and cultures. For example, choosing Switzerland allows me to study in English while also learning German or French, which can make me more competitive in the international job market.

🚀 Final Thoughts

Switzerland has always been a hub for innovation, culture, and education. By accepting the Duolingo English Test, Swiss universities are making it easier than ever for international students to pursue their dreams in Europe.

If your goal is to study in Switzerland, the DET is not just an option—it’s one of the smartest steps you can take toward admission.

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