Want to study abroad in 2026 but don’t want to take the IELTS? You’re not alone. Many international students are exploring IELTS-free pathways that still lead to quality degrees overseas. Thanks to evolving admissions policies, many countries and universities now accept alternatives to IELTS or waive the requirement if you can demonstrate English proficiency in other ways.
Here’s your complete guide to destinations and institutions where you can study without an IELTS score plus how you can qualify using other proofs of English ability.
Why Some Universities Allow Study Without IELTS
Traditionally, IELTS (International English Language Testing System) was the standard proof of English ability. But universities are now offering flexibility like:
Accepting alternative tests (Duolingo English Test, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic)
Accepting a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate showing you studied in English
Allowing internal English interviews or academic assessments
Waiving the requirement entirely if your previous education was in English
This reduces barriers for students who are already fluent but don’t want to take IELTS.
Germany
Many German universities don’t require IELTS if:
- You studied in English before
- You provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from your school/college
- You take a university-specific English assessment
Germany also has many English-taught programmes, and public universities charge low or no tuition.
Example universities:
- Technical University of Munich (TUM)
- Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich (LMU)
- University of Siegen
- Ruhr University Bochum
Great for tech, engineering, sciences, business and research programmes.
Canada
Canadian universities increasingly accept alternatives like:
- Duolingo English Test
- PTE Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- MOI showing prior English education
Alternatively, some institutions run conditional or pathway programmes where you can improve English after admission.
Example universities:
- University of Winnipeg
- Brock University
- University of Saskatchewan
- Memorial University of Newfoundland
These options make Canada more accessible even if you haven’t taken IELTS.
United Kingdom
Many UK universities offer IELTS waivers if you meet certain criteria like:
- Studying in an English-medium system previously
- Minimum English grades at high school level
- Internal university interview or assessment
Popular choices include:
Example universities:
- University of Portsmouth
- University of Plymouth
- Northumbria University
- University of East London
Good for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, especially in business and humanities.
France
French universities have expanded English-taught programmes and increasingly accept:
- MOI certificates
- Internal language assessments
- Duolingo or other test alternatives
This applies especially in business and engineering schools.
Example universities:
- Paris School of Business
- ESAIP School of Engineers
(and more across France)
Italy
Italian public universities are flexible for English-taught programs, often accepting:
- MOI certificates
- Duolingo scores or internal assessments
- Prior education in English
This opens up affordable European options.
Example universities:
- University of Bologna
- Sapienza University of Rome
- University of Padua
- University of Milan
New Zealand
Top Kiwi universities now accept alternative proof of English instead of IELTS, such as:
- MOI certificates
- Other tests (TOEFL, Duolingo)
- Internal English checks
This trend reduces delays in admissions and helps students focus on academic requirements.
Example universities:
- University of Auckland
- University of Otago
- Victoria University of Wellington
- Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Many universities in the UAE (especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi) do not require IELTS for admission. Instead, they may:
- Use internal English tests
- Accept MOI certificates
- Provide conditional admissions with English preparation
Example universities:
- Middlesex University Dubai
- Murdoch University Dubai
- De Montfort University Dubai
- Regent College Dubai
The UAE is growing in popularity due to its multicultural environment and strong English usage.
Common Alternative English Proofs Accepted Instead of IELTS
If you don’t take IELTS, universities often accept one or more of the following:
Medium of Instruction (MOI) Letter
Duolingo English Test
TOEFL iBT
PTE Academic
Cambridge English (CAE/B2/C1)
Internal English interview or assessment
Prior education in English-speaking institutions
Always confirm directly with the university before applying.
How to Apply Without IELTS
Prepare an MOI Certificate from your high school or previous university
Ask the university if they accept Duolingo or TOEFL
Check for internal English interviews or pathway programs
Apply early — policies vary by intake and degree level
FAQs
Q1: Can I still get a student visa without IELTS?
Yes, if the university issues a written waiver or accepts an alternative proof. Always keep written confirmation.
Q2: Are degrees from these universities recognised globally?
Yes, as long as the university is accredited and internationally recognised.
Q3: Does studying without IELTS affect visa approval?
Not usually,visa authorities accept English proof provided by the university when properly documented.
Q4: Is Duolingo easier than IELTS?
Duolingo is shorter, cheaper, and online, making it more accessible, but requirements vary by institution.
Q5: What if I don’t qualify for alternatives?
You may be offered conditional admission with English pathway courses before your main degree.
