Top Scholarships Without IELTS in 2025

Pursuing higher education abroad has become more accessible, even for those who haven’t taken the IELTS exam. In 2025, several universities and governments are offering scholarships without IELTS as a requirement. These programs are open to students from Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and other regions.

This guide covers:

• Top scholarships without IELTS
• Alternative English test waivers
• Eligibility & application tips

Why Some Universities Waive IELTS?

• Medium of Instruction (MOI) Proof – If your previous education was in English.
• University Interviews – Some schools assess English skills via online interviews.
• Alternative Tests – TOEFL, Duolingo, PTE, or Cambridge English accepted.
• Native English Speakers – Students from English-speaking countries may get exemptions.

Why Scholarships Without IELTS Are Gaining Popularity

• Many students face financial or logistical challenges taking IELTS.
• Universities recognize alternative English proficiency options.
• There’s an increase in global talent mobility programs.
• Focus on inclusivity in international education.

Countries Offering Scholarships Without IELTS in 2025

Here’s a list of countries where top scholarships are available without IELTS in 2025.

Germany

• Germany Study Requirement: Many public universities in Germany accept students without IELTS if they can provide proof of English-medium instruction or other tests like TOEFL, Duolingo.
• Top Scholarships:
  • DAAD Scholarships: Fully funded scholarships for Master’s and Ph.D. students.
    https://www.daad.de/en/
  • Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship
    https://www.boell.de/en/foundation/scholarships

France

• Language Flexibility: Many universities offer programs in English and accept students based on interviews or certificates of English proficiency from their previous institution.
• Top Scholarships:
  • Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
    https://www.campusfrance.org/en/eiffel-scholarship-program-of-excellence
  • Université Paris-Saclay International Master’s Scholarship
    https://www.universite-paris-saclay.fr/en

Turkey

• Turkey Government Scholarships: Fully funded, no IELTS required.
  https://turkiyeburslari.gov.tr
• Proof of English proficiency from previous institution is often sufficient.

Hungary

• Stipendium Hungaricum: No IELTS needed if your previous education was in English.
  https://stipendiumhungaricum.hu

China

• Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC) doesn’t require IELTS if you provide English proficiency certificate.
  https://www.campuschina.org
• Various provincial scholarships also available.

Japan

• MEXT Scholarship: IELTS not mandatory. Language proficiency can be proven via university letter or interview.
  https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp

Universities Accepting Scholarships Without IELTS

• University of Oslo (Norway) – Accepts English proficiency certificate.
  https://www.uio.no/english/
• University of Milan (Italy) – Accepts alternative tests like Duolingo.
  https://www.unimi.it/en
• University of Padova (Italy) – Offers scholarships with flexible language requirements.
  https://www.unipd.it/en/
• Koc University (Turkey) – No IELTS for fully funded programs.
  https://gsse.ku.edu.tr
• Kyung Hee University (South Korea) – IELTS waived with English-medium proof.
  https://www.khu.ac.kr/eng/index.jsp

How to Get a Scholarship Without IELTS?

1. Submit Medium of Instruction (MOI) Letter

• If your past degree was taught in English, request an MOI certificate from your school.

2. Take Alternative English Tests

• Duolingo English Test (Cheaper & faster results)
• TOEFL iBT Home Edition (Accepted globally)
• PTE Academic (Computer-based test)

3. Apply for Conditional Admission

• Some universities grant provisional admission if you agree to take an English course later.

4. Check University-Specific Policies

• Always verify waiver options on the official university website.

Alternatives to IELTS for Scholarships

• English Proficiency Certificate (EPC): Letter from your last institution confirming English as the medium of instruction.
• Duolingo English Test (DET): Accepted by many universities.
  https://englishtest.duolingo.com
• TOEFL: Widely accepted alternative to IELTS.
  https://www.ets.org/toefl
• University Interview: Some universities conduct online interviews to assess your English.

How to Apply for Scholarships Without IELTS in 2025

• Step 1: Identify the scholarship and country of your choice.
• Step 2: Check language requirements and accepted alternatives.
• Step 3: Prepare your documents, including your English proficiency letter.
• Step 4: Submit your application directly on the university or scholarship portal.
• Step 5: Attend interviews if required.

Pro Tip:

Use platforms like Scholarship Positions, DAAD Database, and Campus France to stay updated.

Benefits of Applying Without IELTS

• Saves time and test fees.
• Encourages students from underprivileged regions.
• Opens more opportunities without language barriers.
• Flexibility in demonstrating English proficiency.

Scholarships Without IELTS for Pakistani and Indian Students

• Turkey Burslari
• Hungarian Government Scholarship
• MEXT Japan
• CSC China
• Eiffel France
• DAAD Germany

Visit HEC Pakistan Scholarship Portal and Study in India for country-specific scholarships.

FAQs About Scholarship Without IELTS 2025

1. Can I study abroad without IELTS in 2025?
Yes, many universities in Europe and Asia offer scholarships and admissions without IELTS. You can use an English proficiency certificate instead.

2. What are the alternatives to IELTS?
Duolingo English Test, TOEFL, or an English-medium education certificate from your previous school.

3. Are fully funded scholarships available without IELTS?
Yes. Scholarships like DAAD, Turkey Burslari, and MEXT Japan offer fully funded options without requiring IELTS.

4. Can Pakistani students apply for these scholarships?
Absolutely. Many programs specifically encourage applications from Pakistan and other South Asian countries.

5. Where can I find scholarships without IELTS?
Use sites like ScholarshipsAds, DAAD, and Campus France to explore available opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Studying abroad without IELTS is now more achievable than ever in 2025. With a wide range of scholarships available across Europe, Asia, and beyond, students can focus on their academic journey without the stress of expensive English tests. Always verify requirements on official university and scholarship pages, and prepare your documentation early.

Read Our Latest Blog About: New Scholarships Updates : Apply for 2025 and 2026

Written by Asif, an experienced researcher helping People’s to navigate visas and work abroad opportunities.

For more scholarship updates, visit LiveAbroadGuide.