Duolingo Launches UK Welcome Project to Support Displaced International Students
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In response to rising visa delays and geopolitical disruptions impacting student mobility, Duolingo English Test (DET) has launched the UK Welcome Project to help international students redirect their academic journeys to the United Kingdom.
Announced at DETcon London, the initiative was introduced by Michael Lynas, UK Country Director for DET, who highlighted the urgent need to support students—especially from countries like India and China, whose study abroad plans, primarily to the US, have been unexpectedly derailed.
“We’ve been hearing stories from students who have spent years preparing to study in the US, only to face last-minute disruptions,” said Lynas. “We believe the UK is uniquely positioned to offer them an immediate and viable alternative.”
The UK Welcome Project focuses on three strategic actions:
Raising awareness among Duolingo English Test takers that UK university places for autumn 2025 are still open.
Collaborating with recruitment networks in major source markets to amplify the message that the UK remains a welcoming destination.
Partnering with UK universities to offer discounted DET access, with rapid 24-hour results, to facilitate fast-track applications.
“The flexibility of the UK’s admissions cycle is a game-changer,” said Lynas. “Our later deadlines give us agility other countries lack. We can act when others can’t.”
The campaign aims to bridge the gap for students who already meet academic and financial requirements but have had their plans altered due to visa bottlenecks, particularly in the US.
As student frustration grows over prolonged visa wait times in key destinations, the UK is emerging as a timely alternative. Lynas emphasised the project’s long-term vision: “This is more than a backup plan — it’s a chance to genuinely welcome talented students and reaffirm that the UK is open and ready.”
With global instability reshaping mobility patterns, Duolingo’s initiative could strengthen the UK’s standing as a preferred education hub.
Source: THE PIE NEWS
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