For thousands of students worldwide, studying abroad is a dream—but the IELTS exam often becomes a major barrier. High exam fees, strict score requirements, limited test centers, and repeated attempts discourage many talented students from applying to foreign universities.
The good news?
In 2025, many countries, universities, and governments offer scholarships that allow you to study abroad without IELTS.
Yes, it is completely possible to get fully funded or partially funded scholarships without taking IELTS—if you know the right options, eligibility rules, and alternative language requirements.
This article provides a complete, updated guide to the top scholarships to study abroad without IELTS in 2025, including eligibility criteria, benefits, countries, application tips, and real alternatives accepted instead of IELTS.
Can You Really Study Abroad Without IELTS?
Yes—absolutely.
Many universities and scholarship providers waive IELTS if:
- You studied in English-medium institutions
- You provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate
- You pass a university interview or internal test
- You complete a foundation or preparatory program
- Your previous degree was taught in English
In 2025, flexibility has increased due to:
- Global competition for international students
- Online education expansion
- Inclusive admission policies
Common IELTS Alternatives Accepted in 2025
Before we explore scholarships, it’s important to understand IELTS alternatives commonly accepted:
- Medium of Instruction (MOI) Certificate
- Duolingo English Test
- TOEFL (sometimes optional)
- University English Assessment Test
- Online interview in English
- Previous degree in English
Countries Offering Scholarships Without IELTS (2025)
The following countries are most friendly toward non-IELTS applicants:
- Germany
- Norway
- Sweden
- Finland
- France
- Italy
- Hungary
- Poland
- China
- Japan
- South Korea
- Malaysia
- Turkey
- Canada (select universities)
- UK (select universities & programs)
Top Scholarships to Study Abroad Without IELTS – 2025
1. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
Country: Germany
Level: Master’s & PhD
Funding: Fully Funded
What It Covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend (€934–€1,300)
- Health insurance
- Travel allowance
IELTS Requirement:
❌ Not mandatory for many programs
Alternative Accepted:
- English-medium education certificate
- University-level language assessment
Why DAAD?
Germany offers tuition-free education, and DAAD is one of the world’s most respected scholarship programs.
2. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (Europe)
Countries: Multiple EU countries
Level: Master’s
Funding: Fully Funded
Benefits:
- Full tuition
- Monthly stipend (€1,400 approx.)
- Travel & relocation allowance
IELTS Requirement:
❌ Many programs do not require IELTS
Accepted Alternatives:
- MOI certificate
- Previous English-taught degree
Why Choose Erasmus?
Study in 2–3 European countries with one scholarship and earn a globally recognized degree.
3. Swedish Institute Scholarships (Sweden)
Country: Sweden
Level: Master’s
Funding: Fully Funded
Coverage:
- Tuition fees
- Monthly living allowance
- Travel grant
IELTS Requirement:
❌ Waived for some applicants
Alternative Proof:
- English-medium education
- University verification
4. Government of Hungary – Stipendium Hungaricum
Country: Hungary
Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Funding: Fully Funded
Benefits:
- Tuition waiver
- Monthly stipend
- Accommodation support
- Medical insurance
IELTS Requirement:
❌ Not compulsory
Accepted Instead:
- MOI certificate
- Online interview
5. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
Country: China
Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Funding: Fully Funded
Coverage:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Monthly stipend
- Medical insurance
IELTS Requirement:
❌ Not required
Language Requirement:
- English-medium previous education
- Some programs taught in English
6. MEXT Scholarship (Japan)
Country: Japan
Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Funding: Fully Funded
Benefits:
- Full tuition
- Monthly stipend
- Airfare
IELTS Requirement:
❌ Not mandatory
Selection Based On:
- Academic performance
- Interview
- English proficiency assessment
7. Turkish Government Scholarship (Türkiye Burslari)
Country: Turkey
Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Funding: Fully Funded
What’s Included:
- Tuition fees
- Monthly stipend
- Accommodation
- Health insurance
- Flight tickets
IELTS Requirement:
❌ No IELTS needed
Language Training:
Free Turkish language course included.
8. Italian Government Scholarships
Country: Italy
Level: Master’s & PhD
Funding: Fully/Partially Funded
IELTS Requirement:
❌ Not compulsory
Accepted Instead:
- English-medium education proof
- University interview
Italy also offers tuition-free or low-cost public universities.
9. Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)
Country: Malaysia
Level: Master’s & PhD
Funding: Fully Funded
IELTS Requirement:
❌ Not mandatory for many universities
Alternative:
- MOI certificate
- English interview
10. Korean Government Scholarship Program (GKS)
Country: South Korea
Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Funding: Fully Funded
Coverage:
- Tuition
- Monthly stipend
- Settlement allowance
- Language training
IELTS Requirement:
❌ Optional
Scholarships Without IELTS in the UK (Limited but Possible)
Some UK universities waive IELTS if:
- You studied in an English-medium school
- You complete a pre-sessional English course
- You pass an interview
Examples:
- Chevening Scholarship (case-by-case waiver)
- University-specific scholarships
Scholarships Without IELTS in Canada (Select Universities)
While Canada usually requires IELTS, some universities accept:
- MOI certificate
- Duolingo English Test
Some internal scholarships also do not require IELTS.
How to Get an MOI Certificate
A Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate confirms your previous education was taught in English.
Steps:
- Request from your college/university
- Should mention “English was the medium of instruction”
- Signed and stamped officially
This document is widely accepted in 2025.
Common Mistakes Students Make
- Assuming IELTS is always compulsory
- Applying late
- Ignoring university-specific language policies
- Not preparing for interviews
- Submitting weak SOPs
Tips to Increase Selection Chances (Without IELTS)
- Write a strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Highlight English-medium education clearly
- Prepare for interviews in English
- Apply early
- Apply to multiple scholarships
Is Studying Abroad Without IELTS Worth It?
Yes—if you are confident in English and meet academic requirements.
However:
- You must still communicate effectively
- Universities expect functional English skills
IELTS is waived, not English proficiency.
Final Thoughts
Studying abroad without IELTS in 2025 is no longer a myth. With the right information, planning, and documents, students can secure fully funded scholarships across Europe, Asia, and beyond.
The key is to:
- Research carefully
- Understand language alternatives
- Prepare a strong application
Your dreams should never be limited by one exam.