One of the biggest concerns for students planning to study abroad is the English language requirement. Many international universities ask applicants to submit IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or another recognized English proficiency test before they can be admitted.
For students who have not taken IELTS, cannot afford the test, or have already completed their previous education in English, this requirement can appear to be a major obstacle.
However, not every international scholarship or university requires IELTS specifically.
Some universities accept alternative English proficiency tests, while others may accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate or another form of evidence showing that the applicant previously studied in English. In some cases, an English-language test may be waived altogether if the applicant meets specific conditions.
This creates opportunities for international students who want to study abroad without IELTS.
In this guide, we explore scholarships and study-abroad opportunities that may allow applicants to apply without an IELTS score, explain how IELTS waivers work, identify alternative forms of English proficiency evidence, and provide practical tips for finding scholarships for the 2027 intake.
Important: “Without IELTS” does not necessarily mean “without proof of English proficiency.” Requirements vary by scholarship, university, degree program, nationality, and previous education. Always verify the current requirements with the official scholarship provider and university before applying.
Can You Get a Scholarship Without IELTS?
Yes.
There are scholarships and university programs where IELTS is not the only accepted way to demonstrate English proficiency.
Depending on the institution, applicants may be able to provide:
- A Medium of Instruction certificate
- Proof that their previous degree was taught entirely in English
- A recognized alternative English test
- A university-issued English proficiency letter
- Another accepted language qualification
- Proof of nationality from an English-speaking country
- An exemption granted by the university
The important distinction is that IELTS is a specific English test, while English proficiency is a broader requirement.
A university may require proof that you can study in English without requiring IELTS itself.
For example, DAAD states that its scholarship programs do not all have one universal minimum language requirement. Requirements depend on the scholarship and study program. For English-taught programs, accepted evidence can include tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, Cambridge English, Duolingo English Test, and others, depending on the applicable program.
What Does “Without IELTS” Actually Mean?
When you see a scholarship advertised as “without IELTS,” there are several possibilities.
1. IELTS Is Not Required
The university or scholarship may simply not require IELTS.
2. IELTS Can Be Replaced
The institution may accept another English proficiency test such as:
- TOEFL
- PTE Academic
- Cambridge English
- Duolingo English Test
3. You Can Submit an MOI Certificate
Some universities may accept a document from your previous institution confirming that your degree was taught in English.
4. You Qualify for an English-Language Exemption
Some applicants may qualify for an exemption because of their nationality or previous education.
5. The Scholarship Does Not Require IELTS, but the University Does
This is extremely important.
A scholarship provider may not ask for IELTS when you submit the scholarship application, but the university you eventually attend may still require proof of English proficiency.
Therefore, applicants should check both the scholarship requirements and the university admission requirements.
Best Scholarships and Programs to Consider Without IELTS
There is no universal list of scholarships that permanently waive IELTS for every international student. Requirements change and may differ between participating universities.
However, several major scholarship programs and study destinations are worth researching if you want to study abroad without taking IELTS.
1. DAAD Scholarships – Germany
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides numerous scholarships for international students and researchers.
DAAD is particularly interesting for students searching for opportunities without IELTS because it does not impose one universal language-test rule across all scholarship programs.
Instead, language requirements depend on the specific scholarship and degree program.
DAAD states that applicants generally need to provide evidence of proficiency in the language of instruction for their chosen program. For English-language programs, possible evidence can include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, Cambridge English, Duolingo English Test, and other accepted certificates, depending on the applicable requirements.
Applicants from certain English-speaking countries may also be exempt from providing English proficiency evidence under DAAD’s rules.
Why Consider Germany?
Germany offers:
- Highly respected universities
- Numerous English-taught master’s programs
- Strong research opportunities
- Relatively affordable public universities
- DAAD scholarship opportunities
- Excellent opportunities for international graduates
Important Tip
Do not assume that a DAAD scholarship automatically means IELTS is unnecessary.
Check the language requirements of the specific DAAD scholarship and university program you are applying to.
2. MEXT Scholarship – Japan
The Japanese Government’s MEXT Scholarship is one of the most prominent scholarship opportunities for international students.
MEXT supports students at different academic levels, including:
- Undergraduate study
- Master’s study
- Doctoral study
- Research programs
- Teacher training
- Specialized training
The scholarship can provide substantial financial support, depending on the category.
Benefits may include:
- Tuition fees
- Monthly allowance
- Admission fees
- Travel expenses
For students interested in applying without IELTS, the key is to examine the requirements for the specific MEXT category and university.
English proficiency requirements can vary depending on the program and institution.
Some applicants may be able to demonstrate English ability through other documentation rather than IELTS.
3. Chinese Government Scholarship – China
The Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) provides opportunities for international students to study at participating Chinese universities.
Programs are available across numerous fields, including:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Medicine
- Business
- Economics
- Agriculture
- Environmental Science
- Public Administration
Scholarship benefits can vary but may include:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Monthly stipend
- Medical insurance
IELTS requirements can vary by university and program.
Some English-taught programs may accept alternative proof that the applicant’s previous education was conducted in English.
Therefore, students should check the individual university’s requirements rather than assuming that every CSC scholarship is IELTS-free.
4. Korean Government Scholarship Program – South Korea
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is a major government-funded scholarship program for international students.
It provides opportunities for undergraduate and graduate-level study in South Korea.
Depending on the scholarship category, benefits may include:
- Tuition support
- Airfare
- Monthly allowance
- Language training
- Settlement support
- Medical insurance
IELTS is not necessarily the only way applicants can demonstrate language ability.
Requirements depend on the program and application route, so students should check the current GKS guidelines and the requirements of their selected university.
5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters – Europe
Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters programs provide international students with opportunities to study master’s degrees delivered by partnerships of European universities.
One of the program’s major advantages is that students can study in multiple European countries as part of the same master’s program.
Scholarships can provide funding toward:
- Participation costs
- Travel
- Visa-related expenses
- Installation costs
- Living expenses
The European Commission explains that Erasmus Mundus scholarship applicants apply directly to the individual master’s program, and each consortium publishes its own admission requirements.
This means IELTS requirements can differ from one Erasmus Mundus program to another.
Some programs may accept alternative English tests or other evidence of proficiency.
6. University Scholarships in Europe
One of the best ways to study abroad without IELTS is to search for individual university scholarships rather than focusing exclusively on major government scholarships.
Universities may have their own rules regarding English proficiency.
Some may accept:
- MOI certificates
- Previous degrees taught in English
- Alternative language tests
- University interviews
- Country-specific exemptions
This can create opportunities that are missed by students who assume IELTS is mandatory everywhere.
7. Scholarships in Countries With English-Taught Programs
Another strategy is to search for universities offering English-taught degrees where IELTS is not the only accepted proof of proficiency.
Potential destinations include:
- Germany
- Hungary
- Poland
- Italy
- France
- China
- Japan
- South Korea
- Malaysia
- Turkey
Requirements differ between universities, so applicants should search program-by-program.
What Is a Medium of Instruction Certificate?
A Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate is a document issued by an educational institution confirming the language in which a student’s program was taught.
For example, if you completed a bachelor’s degree where all courses were taught in English, your university may provide an official letter confirming this.
The document may state:
“The medium of instruction for the student’s degree program was English.”
Some universities accept this as evidence of English proficiency.
However, not all universities accept MOI certificates.
Before relying on an MOI certificate, confirm that the university explicitly accepts it as an alternative to IELTS or another language test.
How to Get an MOI Certificate
If your university allows it, contact:
- Registrar’s office
- Academic affairs office
- International office
- Examination office
Request an official letter confirming:
- Your name
- Your degree
- Your period of study
- The institution
- The language of instruction
Some universities may provide the document free of charge, while others may charge a small administrative fee.
Other English Tests You Can Use Instead of IELTS
If IELTS is not accepted or you simply prefer another test, some universities accept alternative exams.
TOEFL
TOEFL is widely accepted by universities around the world.
PTE Academic
PTE Academic is another widely recognized English proficiency examination.
Duolingo English Test
Some universities accept the Duolingo English Test, which can be taken online.
Cambridge English
Cambridge English qualifications are accepted by many institutions.
The exact tests accepted vary by university and program.
Can You Study Abroad Without Any English Test?
Sometimes, yes.
However, this depends entirely on the institution.
You may not need a standardized test if the university accepts another form of evidence.
Possible situations include:
Previous Degree Was Taught in English
You may be able to provide an MOI certificate.
You Are From an English-Speaking Country
Some institutions provide exemptions based on nationality.
The University Provides Its Own Assessment
Some universities may assess English proficiency through an interview or internal process.
The Program Does Not Require English Proficiency Testing
Some programs may not require a standardized English examination.
Never assume an exemption applies without checking the official admission requirements.
How to Find Scholarships Without IELTS
Searching for scholarships requires a different strategy from simply typing “IELTS-free scholarships” into Google.
Search for Alternative English Requirements
Use searches such as:
“international scholarships English proficiency certificate instead of IELTS”
“master’s scholarships MOI accepted”
“study abroad scholarship English medium instruction certificate”
“universities accepting MOI instead of IELTS”
“international scholarships Duolingo English Test”
These searches can reveal opportunities that don’t necessarily advertise themselves as “IELTS-free.”
Check the University’s Admission Requirements
This is one of the most important steps.
Suppose a scholarship says:
“IELTS not required.”
That does not necessarily mean:
“English proficiency not required.”
The scholarship may simply not require IELTS during the initial scholarship application.
The university could still require proof of English before admission.
Always check:
Scholarship requirements → University requirements → Specific degree requirements
Best Strategy for Students Who Do Not Have IELTS
If you don’t have IELTS, don’t immediately assume you cannot study abroad.
Instead:
Step 1: Identify Your Target Country
Choose countries where you can find suitable English-taught programs.
Step 2: Find Universities
Search for programs matching your academic background.
Step 3: Check English Requirements
Determine whether IELTS is mandatory.
Step 4: Look for Alternatives
Check whether the university accepts:
- MOI
- TOEFL
- PTE
- Duolingo
- Cambridge English
Step 5: Search for Scholarships
Look for government, university, and external funding.
Step 6: Verify Everything
Confirm the requirements directly with the university or scholarship provider.
Fully Funded Scholarships Without IELTS
Students often search specifically for “fully funded scholarships without IELTS.”
These opportunities can exist, but applicants should be careful with online scholarship lists.
A scholarship may be fully funded while its associated university still requires proof of English proficiency.
Likewise, a university may waive IELTS while still requiring:
- TOEFL
- PTE
- Duolingo
- MOI certificate
- Interview
- Another approved form of evidence
Therefore, the better search strategy is:
“Fully funded scholarship + alternative English proficiency requirement.”
This produces more accurate results than assuming every scholarship advertised as “without IELTS” requires no language evidence.
Common Mistakes When Applying Without IELTS
Mistake 1: Assuming MOI Is Accepted Everywhere
It isn’t.
Always confirm.
Mistake 2: Confusing Scholarship Requirements With University Requirements
A scholarship provider and university may have different requirements.
Mistake 3: Trusting Old Scholarship Lists
Language requirements change.
A scholarship listed online as “IELTS-free” in 2022 may have different requirements in 2027.
Mistake 4: Paying Agents for Guaranteed Admission
No legitimate organization can guarantee that you will receive a competitive scholarship.
Mistake 5: Ignoring the Program’s Language
An English-taught degree may require English proficiency, while a German-, French-, Japanese-, or Korean-taught program may require proficiency in that language instead.
How to Make Your Application Stronger Without IELTS
Not having IELTS does not automatically make your scholarship application stronger or weaker.
Focus on the factors that scholarship committees actually evaluate.
Strong Academic Performance
Provide your transcripts and academic achievements.
Relevant Experience
Include internships, employment, research, projects, or volunteer work.
Leadership
Show how you have led initiatives or created measurable change.
Strong Personal Statement
Explain why you want the degree and how it fits your long-term goals.
Strong Recommendations
Choose professors, supervisors, or employers who know your work.
Clear Career Goals
Explain how the scholarship will help you achieve your professional objectives.
Scholarships Without IELTS for African Students
African students frequently search for scholarships that do not require IELTS because English is widely used as a language of instruction in many African education systems, yet standardized English testing can be expensive.
Students from countries such as:
- Ghana
- Nigeria
- Kenya
- Uganda
- Tanzania
- Rwanda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
- South Africa
- Cameroon
- Sierra Leone
- Liberia
should investigate whether their previous degree was taught entirely in English and whether their target university accepts an MOI certificate.
However, acceptance is institution-specific.
A bachelor’s degree taught in English does not automatically guarantee an IELTS waiver.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I study abroad without IELTS?
Yes. Some universities accept alternative proof of English proficiency or grant exemptions to eligible applicants.
Which countries allow international students to study without IELTS?
There is no universal country-wide rule. Requirements are usually determined by individual universities and programs.
Countries where students may find alternatives include Germany, Italy, France, Hungary, Poland, China, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, and Turkey.
Can I get a fully funded scholarship without IELTS?
Yes, potentially. However, you must check both the scholarship and university requirements. A scholarship may not require IELTS while the university requires another form of English proficiency evidence.
Can I use an MOI certificate instead of IELTS?
Some universities accept an MOI certificate, but others do not.
What if my university taught my entire degree in English?
You may be eligible for an English-language exemption at some universities. Request an official Medium of Instruction certificate and check whether your target institution accepts it.
Is TOEFL easier than IELTS?
Neither test is universally easier. The better choice depends on your strengths, testing preferences, and which examination your target university accepts.
Is Duolingo accepted instead of IELTS?
Many universities accept the Duolingo English Test, but acceptance varies by institution and program. Check the university’s current requirements before taking the test.
Can I apply for scholarships before taking an English test?
Sometimes. Some scholarship applications allow applicants to apply before submitting final language evidence, while others require proof at the application stage.
Final Thoughts
Not having an IELTS score does not necessarily mean you cannot study abroad.
Many universities and scholarship programs provide alternative ways to demonstrate English proficiency. Depending on the institution, you may be able to use an MOI certificate, TOEFL, PTE Academic, Duolingo English Test, Cambridge English, or another approved form of evidence.
Programs such as DAAD scholarships, MEXT, Chinese Government Scholarships, GKS, Erasmus Mundus, and university-specific scholarships are worth researching, but applicants should never assume that one language rule applies to every participating university.
The most important strategy is to check requirements at the program level.
Before applying, verify:
- The scholarship eligibility requirements.
- The university admission requirements.
- The specific degree program’s English requirements.
- Accepted alternatives to IELTS.
- Whether an MOI certificate is accepted.
- Whether the requirement must be satisfied before application, admission, or enrollment.
For students planning to study abroad in 2027, start researching early. Language requirements, scholarship deadlines, and university policies can change from one academic year to another.
The goal should not simply be to find a scholarship advertised as “without IELTS.” The goal is to find a legitimate, funded study opportunity for which you genuinely meet the language and academic requirements.