Speaking at DETcon London earlier this month, Michael Lynas, UK country director for the Duolingo English Test (DET), announced the launch of the DET UK Welcome Project, a campaign to promote the UK as a viable and attractive alternative destination for international students facing visa delays and uncertainty elsewhere.
“We’ve been hearing stories from markets like India and China about students who, for years, have been preparing to study in the US, only to have their plans derailed,” Lynas said. “We think there’s a real opportunity for the UK sector to step in and support them right now.”
The project will focus on three core actions:
- Raising awareness of UK study opportunities among students who have taken – or are preparing to take – the Duolingo English Test, with targeted outreach campaigns highlighting that places remain available at UK universities for autumn 2025.
- Collaborating with major global recruitment networks, particularly in key sending countries, to spread the message that the UK remains open and welcoming to international students.
- Partnering with UK universities to promote their programs, offering access to discounted DETs with 24-hour results turnaround.
“It’s all about partnering with universities to make sure students are aware of the opportunities in the UK and facilitating students to complete their applications quickly,” explained Lynas in a recent webinar organised by The PIE and DET.
“There are many fantastic students who want to study, they have the grades, they have the funds, many have already taken their English test with us – but they have changed their plans or had their plans changed for them. We believe that the UK can support these students to continue their studies and we want to help connect the dots.”
Speaking to DETcon delegates, Lynas highlighted the UK’s comparatively flexible admissions cycle as a strategic advantage. “The UK is uniquely positioned to respond to this moment. Our later deadlines give us the agility to act when others can’t,” he said.
The announcement comes amid rising student frustrations over protracted visa wait times in the US and other destinations, with stakeholders warning of growing instability in key markets.
“This is a chance not just to mitigate disruption, but to truly welcome these students — and show the world that the UK is here for them,” Lynas said.
